Buying a gift for an upholsterer, whether new to the craft or years in, can be tricky. We’re practical people and we already have a lot of stuff. And we can oddly be specific about what we like.
So rather than suggesting a few sewing machines and fabrics, this is a list of useful, thoughtful and everyday items that upholsterers genuinely appreciate.
These are the sorts of things I use in the workshop, recommend to students, or quietly buy myself when something runs out:
1. Tailors Pencils: I don’t mind chalk, but these are ideal for drawing discreet lines around fabric patterns.
2. Magnetic guides for Sewing Machine: I like to sew with a 1.5cm seam allowance, but often industrial machines dont have a sewing guide. This little tool works perfectly for accurate depths (not: they only work on metal machines!)
3. Fabric Brush: I know it sounds obvious, but little fibres and hairs get all over fabric and it’s nice to be able to brush them down after completion, particularly with velvet.
4. Tweezers: I probably pick these up once a week. When you need to unpick something, you need to get those threads out fast.
5. Clip On Light: This is transferable across the workshop, but i mostly have mine clipped to my sewing machine. Excellent for precision work.
6. Apron with Pockets: Upholstering is mucky work, this apron has lots of extra pockets for storing tools and bits.
7. Toolbox with Wheels: Once you get into it and start acquiring more tools, this box with wheels comes in handy.
8. Leather Skiver: This is an essential tool for leather work. You cant create a button without one.
I hope this list gives you a little help with more of the usual gifts you can buy an Upholsterer.