Deep Buttoned Stool Upholstery Workshop

Deep Buttoned Stool Upholstery Workshop

Curious about upholstery but not sure where to begin? This one-day, in-person workshop is a friendly, hands-on introduction where you’ll make your own deep buttoned footstool using modern upholstery techniques and take it home ready to use.

No previous upholstery experience is needed. Whether you're completely new to upholstery or have tried a little before, you'll be guided through every stage of the process. By the end of the day, you'll leave with a finished deep buttoned footstool and the confidence to apply these skills to future projects. With a maximum of six students and two tutors, you'll receive plenty of individual guidance throughout the day.

What you'll learn

During the workshop you'll build your stool from the frame up, learning a range of modern upholstery techniques that can be applied to future projects.

You'll learn:

• How to measure, mark out and prepare your stool frame

• Working with upholstery foam and wadding to create shape and comfort

• Safe and effective use of upholstery tools, including a pneumatic staple gun, foam cutter and spray adhesive

• Fabric placement and preparation

• How to make upholstered buttons

• The principles of deep buttoning, including marking out, spacing and positioning buttons

What's included

All materials for your stool (approx. 60 x 45cm, legs, foam, wadding and fixings), use of tools and equipment, tuition throughout the day, and your finished footstool to take home.

What to bring

• 1 metre of your chosen fabric

• Apron or overalls

• Your own tools if you'd like (optional)

Fabric guidance

Plain fabrics work best for this project as the deep buttoning can distort patterned fabrics. Wool and woven upholstery fabrics are ideal. I wouldn't recommend velvets or fabrics with a pile as they are more difficult to work with.

If you're unsure whether your chosen fabric is suitable, feel free to get in touch!

Location & facilities

Edinburgh Open Workshop is easily reached by public transport, with frequent bus services nearby and The Shore tram stop just a short walk away. On-street parking is available in the surrounding area.

A kitchenette is available if you'd like to bring your own lunch.

Cancellations & Refunds

If you can’t make the workshop, please get in touch as soon as you can. You’re very welcome to pass your place on to a friend if you let me know before the day.

As these are small, hands-on classes, I’m only able to offer refunds or changes with enough notice:

• With at least 2 weeks’ notice: a full refund can be arranged (minus any booking fees)

• With 1–2 weeks’ notice: I can offer a 50% refund, or move your booking to a future date (subject to availability)

• Within 72 hours of the workshop: I’m afraid I’m not able to offer refunds or transfers

• If you’re unable to attend on the day and don’t let me know, the place can’t be refunded or rescheduled

In the unlikely event that I need to cancel the workshop, you’ll receive a full refund.