Upholsterers

Upholsterers spend their days working with their hands to build, restore, or replace the soft coverings on furniture, car seats, and aircraft interiors. This work appeals to individuals with realistic interests who enjoy physical tasks and handling materials. Daily activities include inspecting structures, measuring and estimating fabric needs, and using creative thinking to solve design challenges.

To succeed in this role, workers need strong skills in critical thinking, time management, and active listening. They must understand production processes, design principles, and mechanical methods. Upholsterers rely on work styles such as attention to detail, dependability, and perseverance to ensure their finished products meet quality standards.

Entering this field typically requires a high school diploma. Most workers prepare for the job through some on-the-job training or prior experience. Students interested in this career path can pursue college majors in leatherworking and upholstery.

While entering the field is straightforward, some states list a license for this work. Additionally, professionals can earn credentials such as the Certified Environmental Drycleaner certification from the Drycleaning & Laundry Institute to demonstrate specialized skills.

In 2025, the median annual pay for upholsterers was $46,340. The lowest 10% of earners made less than $31,690, while the highest 10% earned more than $63,770. There are 20,140 people employed in this occupation. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to decline by -2.3%. Despite this slight decline in total jobs, the field is still expected to have 1,700 job openings each year.