Upholsterer (Furniture)
つめものこう（かぐるい）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A skilled trade that attaches cushion materials and fabrics to furniture frames to provide comfort and aesthetic appeal. Responsible for measurement, cutting, attachment, sewing, and finishing.
Description
Furniture upholsterers measure and cut cushion materials (urethane foam, cotton, felt, etc.) for furniture frames such as sofas and chairs, fix them using adhesives or staplers, and then sew and attach fabrics. This involves creating patterns, adjusting dimensions, selecting adhesives and threads according to material properties, and checking the aesthetic finish, requiring precision and manual dexterity. Work processes and machinery vary depending on the product type, from mass production lines to high-end custom orders. While automation equipment is increasingly introduced to improve efficiency, demand for high-end furniture crafted by skilled hands remains strong.
Future Outlook
While mass production tasks are becoming more efficient due to the introduction of automation equipment, handcrafted work for high-end custom furniture is expected to see continued demand. Succession of skills is a challenge as skilled workers age.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and good at detailed work / Good team player / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Career Path
Apprentice Upholsterer → Upholsterer → Leader Worker → Line Supervisor → Factory Manager
Required Skills
Adhesive Application Technique / Cushion Material Processing / Dimension Measurement / Sewing Machine Operation / Stapler Operation
Recommended Skills
Basic Woodworking Knowledge / CAD / Material Knowledge / Quality Control (Basic Knowledge)
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because the finish of details directly affects quality. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to frequent standing work and handling of heavy objects. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Only requires measurement and simple calculations; no need for advanced mathematical analysis. |
Aliases
- Furniture Upholsterer
- Upholsterer
Related Jobs
- Chair Manufacturer
- Furniture Craftsman
- Interior Craftsman
- Sofa Manufacturer