An introduction to the AMUSF

 

The Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers (AMUSF) was founded in 1947 (then as the AMU) to protect and represent the interests of upholsterers, small furniture makers, and soft furnishers.  In those days of post-war austerity, this group of master craftsmen (and craftswomen) were starved of many of the materials needed for their trades. They felt the need for a group voice and mutual support to tackle the difficulties this caused and, in the highly regulated environment of the time, to ensure that they could influence local and national government in the framing and enforcement of laws which affected them.

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Since those early days, the Association has vastly extended the range of support it gives to members. It is still a lobbying body, but it also provides diverse services and advice to individual members.  The Association is also highly active in training as it sees this as a vital contribution to the long-term well-being and continuing strength of the upholstery and soft furnishing industry.

 

Upholstery Qualification Syllabus

 

Stage 1 - Craft Certificate

Stage 2 - Intermediate Craft Certificate

Stage 3 - Diploma

 

 

We are excited to be offering AMUSF accredited diploma courses. These courses will take on a more formal role than our usual leisure courses but with some of the informality and laughter that we are known for!

 

This is a three-stage programme designed to develop a range of both modern and traditional upholstery skills, from a simple drop-in dining chair to large traditionally upholstered armchairs, as well as developing the tailoring skills required for mid-century modern furniture.

 

A pass is required at each stage before a student can progress to the next stage.  Each stage is a qualification and there is no obligation to complete all three stages.

 

These qualifications can only be delivered by an AMUSF Approved Training Centre. The diploma programme is designed to teach students the fundamental basics of upholstery to a high standard.​

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​All courses are based around the academic year: September to July with half-term and holidays in line with Bath and North East Somerset schools. Classes are one day per week which totals 240 hours over 37 days.

 

The course fees include all the materials used in the exercise pieces, but you will be required to supply the frames and pay for the materials used on the assessment pieces only.

The course tutor assesses your work at the workshop on an ongoing basis throughout the course. You will also be verified annually, on a given date, by an External Verifier appointed by the AMUSF.

A registration and certification fee of £60 + vat per student is payable for each stage of the AMUSF accredited courses. This is payable directly to the AMUSF and must be made within 4 weeks of starting the course.