When creating a piece of upholstered furniture we use many of our innate senses and skills. We use our hands to sew, to shape and to build. We use our eyes to measure, to appraise and to appreciate form and profile. We use our unique sense of colour and pattern to produce something that is totally unique to us. And finally we use our whole bodies to bring the piece to life.
Above all, we have fun! Small groups of like-minded individuals focused on their creations, working side by side in busy harmony, sharing a funny story, a life lesson or two, being inspired by each other, drinking coffee, patting the dog and just being together in the same creative, productive zone. Time flies so fast, that you wish you could stay longer.....
We believe that there is no substitute for the in-person tutor, a mentor and guide to show you the ropes, to explain and inform, to hold your hands (literally, sometimes!) and to boost your confidence when needed. You are in good hands; hands that are confident, experienced and nurturing. No one fails in our classes. You are all winners.
We believe that there is no substitute for the in-person tutor, a mentor and guide to show you the ropes, to explain and inform, to hold your hands (literally, sometimes!) and to boost your confidence when needed. You are in good hands; hands that are confident, experienced and nurturing. No one fails in our classes. You are all winners. We believe that making stuff, recycling stuff and having a go, is good for your mental and emotional health.
Jill Humphrey AMUSF, business owner and tutor
Jill studied for a diploma with the Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers in Cornwall before setting up her upholstery business. She has over 12 years’ continuous experience of commercial practice and 6 years as a professional tutor. Former owner, Managing Director and Master Upholsterer at Pretty Sitting Upholstery & Interiors in Cheddar for 6 years, in 2025, Jill decided to dedicate her time to teaching and designing bespoke upholstered furniture. Jill also has a degree in Art History and is an accredited leadership coach and mentor.
So, in January 2025, Cheddar Upholstery School was launched. It is a dedicated upholstery and soft furnishings training centre, running a variety of leisure-based courses for anyone wishing to take up this amazing craft. We are still based in the old Pretty Sitting Workshop at Barrows House on Tweentown in Cheddar, where we have a practical and spacious studio with kitchen/dining facilities available to all our students.
“I am passionate about the history and heritage behind the craft of upholstery, but I also love the creative process of designing and building something unique to the maker. In my classes I try to reflect and teach both sides of this amazing craft”.
“My classes are always fun to attend and with small groups of up to 5 or 6 students, everyone gets to know the others in their group and be inspired by different ideas, styles and techniques. Many of my students return again and again with new projects to work on; pieces they have often found in a charity shop or auction or inherited from family members. Each piece is then unique to them, and we work together to produce something very personal. It can be an emotional experience!”
See further information about our courses and workshops by clicking on the downloadable "Welcome" document below.
Jill Humphrey, Feb 2025
Contact Jill by email at jill@cheddar-upholstery.co.uk or call 07800 962748
Welcome Email to Upholstery Students 2025 (docx)
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