Upholsterers Salary
Median salary £26,966 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £27,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For upholsterers, £27,909 is the typical (median) pay. That is well below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -29% versus the national average.
About this role
Upholsterers cut, shape, pad and cover furniture, vehicle seats and other items with fabric, leather and other materials. They restore, reupholster and create soft furnishings, working with frames, springs, foam and covering materials.
Key responsibilities
- Stripping and assessing furniture for reupholstery
- Cutting and sewing fabric, leather and covering materials
- Applying padding, foam, springs and webbing
- Fitting and finishing covers to furniture frames
- Restoring antique and period furniture upholstery
Qualifications and entry routes
Apprenticeship or City & Guilds qualifications in upholstery. Many enter through on-the-job training. Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers (AMUSF) membership provides professional recognition.
Career outlook
Sustainability trends and interest in furniture restoration are supporting demand. Bespoke and heritage upholstery are valued specialist skills.
Key skills
Common industries
- Furniture restoration
- Bespoke furniture manufacturing
- Automotive trim
- Marine upholstery
- Theatre and film
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Mid Level
£26,966
3-7 years
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£943
Upholsterers salary: common questions
How much do upholsterers earn in the UK?
Is £27,909 a good salary in the UK?
Have upholsterers salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).