Upholsterer

The Legends Agency; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized workshop is seeking an experienced Upholsterer to craft and restore high-quality upholstered furniture. The ideal candidate has over 3 years of upholstery experience, a strong portfolio, and a passion for detail-oriented work. Responsibilities include selecting materials, sewing, and collaborating with design teams to meet specifications and deadlines. This is an opportunity to bring craftsmanship to life in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years proven experience in upholstery required.
• Strong upholstery portfolio needed to interpret design templates.
• Physically fit to lift/move heavy items.

Responsibilities

• Craft, repair, and restore furniture with precision.
• Select and inspect materials for quality.
• Collaborate with design and production teams.

Skills

Uphholstery experience

Material preparation and inspection

Sewing and cutting

Collaboration with teams

Attention to detail

Education

Furniture Upholster Qualification (NQF Level 4)

Tools

Sewing machines

Hot knives

Nail guns

Job description

Overview

Upholsterer – Join a design-led workshop crafting bespoke, high-quality upholstered furniture

Sandton, Johannesburg | Market Related | Mon Thu 07:3016:30; Fri 07:3015:15; 2 Sat/month 08:0013:00

About Our Client

Our client is a collaborative workshop team specializing in custom upholstery, repair, and restoration for residential and commercial spaces. They work closely with creative directors, stylists, designers, and project managers to deliver premium finishes with reliable turnaround times. With a strong focus on craftsmanship, safety, and client satisfaction, this is an environment that rewards initiative, precision, and pride in quality work.

The Role: Upholsterer

As an Upholsterer, you will take full ownership of creating, repairing, and restoring upholstered furniture from frame to finish. This includes selecting and preparing materials, measuring, cutting, sewing, padding, and fitting coverings to deliver outstanding results. The role combines skilled craftsmanship with collaboration across design and production teams, ensuring projects meet specifications, deadlines, and high-quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Bring 3+ years of upholstery experience to upholster, repair, and restore furniture (chairs, sofas, beds, etc.) to specification
• Select, inspect, and prepare fabrics, leathers, and other materials for suitability and quality
• Measure, cut, sew, and fit materials; install padding, webbing, springs, and coverings
• Repair frames and refinish exposed wood where required
• Add decorative finishes such as piping, buttoning, and fringing
• Read and interpret design drawings/templates to align outputs with specifications
• Collaborate with design, styling, and production teams; liaise with clients on needs and budgets
• Monitor tools and machinery to minimize downtime; uphold strict safety standards
• Maintain an orderly workshop and provide daily and weekly progress reports

About You

• 3+ years proven experience in upholstery; formal Furniture Upholster Qualification (NQF Level 4) advantageous
• Strong upholstery portfolio with the ability to interpret and execute design templates
• Skilled with upholstery tools and equipment (e.g., sewing machines, hot knives, nail guns)
• Physically fit: able to lift/move heavy items and work on feet for long periods
• Detail-oriented, accurate, and quality-driven with strong time management under deadlines
• Positive, proactive team player with excellent communication skills
• Integrity, accountability, and a strong client-service focus
• Flexible to travel and support occasional out-of-hours projects