About the Course
This six-day workshop explores two traditional upholstered items and soft furnishings. The immersive course is led by our master tutor, Gareth Rees.
Wool-Stuffed Tick Mattresses
This hands-on workshop is perfect for beginners and enthusiasts who want to learn the traditional craft of making wool-and-hair-filled tick mattresses, often called “French mattresses.” These mattresses were once common across Europe, filled with various natural materials before the popularity of sprung mattresses. Participants will acquire practical skills in stuffing, tufting, and stitching using high-quality materials to create a durable and comfortable mattress measuring approximately 30” x 20”. Prepared on a stretcher frame in the traditional manner, the course also provides guidance on creating larger, full-sized mattresses using the techniques learned in class.
Traditional Stitched Bolster
The second project of the workshop focuses on creating a hand-stitched traditional bolster cushion using classic upholstery techniques. Participants will craft a bolster filled with a traditional mix of hair and fiber, developing their understanding of shaping, density, and control through hand stitching. The finished piece will be adorned with an appropriate damask fabric and matching passementerie.
What to expect
Our workshops and courses are full days.
You will work 3 days on each project and swap mid-week.
For our 6 Day workshops, we run from 9:00 am - 4:30 pm with an hour lunch break each day. On the first day, we ask that students arrive 15 minutes early to check in and receive their tools, materials, booklets, and other supplies.
Our classes are in small tutor groups, allowing our master tutors to provide more personalized instruction throughout the week. The classes are typically limited to 8 students in a group.
We provide our students at our workshops with any frames, supplies, webbings, stuffing, and an exclusive instruction booklet to complete their projects. We also provide light snacks and a Tea and Coffee service. Students have access to the school's use tools required for the workshop, but are welcome to bring their own if well-marked.
What is not included in the cost:
Meals, Accommodation, Travel or Parking Costs, or Shipping
Your Tutor(s)
Gareth Rees
Gareth Rees is an accomplished upholsterer with nearly 30 years of experience, having trained in workshops across England and Wales.
Host: The Cavanagh House
