Upholsterers
Upholsterers make, repair, and replace fabric, leather, and padding on furniture and vehicle seats. They work in upholstery shops, furniture manufacturing plants, automotive facilities, and repair shops. The job involves measuring, cutting, sewing, and hand-tacking materials to frames using both hand tools and machinery.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against upholsterers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves assessing damaged furniture or worn vehicle seats, selecting appropriate fabrics and materials, and removing old upholstery. Upholsterers then cut new material to size, sew seams using industrial machines or by hand, and attach fabric to frames using tacks, staples, or adhesive. The work requires careful measuring, detailed craftsmanship, and physical effort like stretching and securing materials tightly.
Who this work suits
Holland code RAC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy hands-on work that produces visible, tangible results and appreciate the practical problem-solving involved in restoration. If you have an eye for color, pattern, and design—the artistic side of choosing and arranging materials—combined with patience for detailed, precise work, this career suits you well.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $58,410 | $63,360 | $63,360 | 30 |
| Hawaii | $33,320 | $57,390 | $72,460 | 30 |
| Washington | $48,310 | $55,970 | $73,050 | 200 |
| North Dakota | $44,350 | $52,420 | $64,420 | — |
| Connecticut | $41,000 | $50,870 | $59,270 | 210 |
| Georgia | $37,590 | $50,760 | $60,480 | 780 |
| North Carolina | $45,690 | $50,600 | $61,950 | 4,050 |
| Maryland | $47,130 | $50,270 | $57,160 | 200 |
| Louisiana | $36,910 | $49,920 | $55,860 | 80 |
| Nevada | $38,900 | $49,880 | $63,650 | 220 |
| Delaware | $47,410 | $49,860 | $60,230 | 40 |
| Minnesota | $43,680 | $48,810 | $53,950 | 60 |
All 42 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Environmental Drycleaner (CED) — Drycleaning & Laundry Institute
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against upholsterers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-6093.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.