The Festival of Upholstery returned on 2nd-3rd October, bringing together upholsterers, students, suppliers and industry organisations for two days of learning, sharing and connection. Building on the success of its inaugural event in 2025, the 2026 Festival of Upholstery offered visitors an expanded programme of demonstrations, learning opportunities and practical advice, alongside an extended range of exhibitors from across the industry.
Held at the National Conference Centre and Motorcycle Museum in Solihull, the festival aimed to address a particular challenge for a craft in which many practitioners work alone – creating opportunities to share knowledge, build relationships and feel part of a wider community.
The idea for the festival came about in 2024, when chairperson Kirsty Lockwood recognised the lack of a central, accessible community for upholsterers, many of whom work alone. She brought together a team of volunteers, now known as the 'festival committee', who pooled their skills to create an event where upholsterers of all backgrounds could share knowledge, discover new materials and techniques, and connect with others who understand their work.
This year's festival was preceded by a series of courses in the days leading up to the event, including traditional fluting, a traditional dossier à tableau (French back), a hand-stitched traditional bolster course, and a popular wood-finishing course, which sold out almost immediately.
As well as developing their craft, visitors had opportunities to get advice on running an upholstery business. A talk on pricing work, access to an accountant and photographer, and an 'Ask Me Anything' stand offered practical support for the challenges of working in the industry.
Live demonstrations throughout the event covered a range of specialist skills and techniques, including traditional upholstery, working with woven horsehair fabric, caning, rush seating, passementerie, leather care and wood repair.
Nearly 200 visitors, exhibitors, tutors and industry professionals came together for an evening social on Friday, providing an opportunity to catch up with old friends, make new connections and celebrate the craft.
The Association of Master Upholsterers, The Guild of Traditional Upholsterers and The Worshipful Company of Upholders were all represented at the event. The British Furniture Association and SATRA were both present too, representing the wider furniture industry.
Kirsty Lockwood, director of Kirsty Lockwood Furnishings, says: “We were delighted with the success of this year's festival, which gave visitors the chance to immerse themselves in upholstery alongside people who understand their work. The opportunity for students to talk informally with experienced upholsterers, and for established professionals to make new connections, is invaluable.”
Looking ahead, the festival committee plans to develop learning opportunities for visitors at different stages of their careers, from those seeking guidance on setting up a business or workshop to experienced upholsterers looking for more advanced technical training.
Photo courtesy Nikki at Royal Touch Photography.
