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Hand-stitched Traditional Bolster with Gareth Rees

This three-day course, led by Gareth Rees, focuses on the making of a hand-stitched traditional bolster, using traditional upholstery techniques.

Tuesday, 29 September 2026

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Thursday, 1 October 2026

Fentham Hall

£550.00

Participants will

  • Construct a traditional bolster form

  • Work with hair and fibre fillings

  • Practise hand stitching techniques to shape and secure the form

  • Develop control over density and finish


Materials and finish

Each participant will complete their bolster using damask fabric and passementerie trim (supplied), ensuring a refined and decorative finish.


Who should attend

This course is open to both students and professional upholsterers who wish to develop or refine their hand skills in traditional upholstery.

Gareth Rees

Gareth Rees has nearly 30 years’ experience as an upholsterer, training in workshops across England and Wales and working across furniture making disciplines, from cabinet work to mattress making.

Festival of Upholstery

Celebrating the craft and artistry of upholstery.

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