Upholsterers then cut the upholstery fabric, sew it where necessary, and fit it smoothly onto the finished padding work. Upholsterers complete the job by making pillow covers and sewing or tacking on fringes, buttons, or other ornaments. Upholsterers use several small hand tools and fasteners in their work, including hammers, staple guns, tack and staple removers, shears, and pliers. A special tool, the webbing stretcher, is used to stretch the webbing and the fabric. Upholstery needles and a sewing machine are used in the sewing stages.
Many Upholsterers work out of their homes, garages or open small shops.
A larger segment of Upholsterers is employed in larger upholstery shops or in businesses that have a steady need for upholstery work, such as furniture stores, auto repair shops, or department stores. The work is not dangerous but workers must guard against bruises, tool cuts, and back strain from lifting. The work involves standing for long periods, frequent stooping, and lifting. Upholsterers usually furnish their own hand tools. Some belong to one of several labor unions.