Those who manage shops also order supplies and equipment and keep business records. Most upholsterers work inside a shop or factory. Working conditions in these facilities vary, typically according to size. Although many shops and factories are spacious, have adequate lighting, and are well ventilated and heated, some may be cramped and dusty. Upholstery work is not dangerous, but upholsterers typically wear protective gloves and clothing when using sharp tools and lifting and handling furniture or springs.
Upholsterers stand most of the workday, doing a lot of bending and heavy lifting.
Also, they have to work in awkward positions for short periods of time. Companies that manufacture household and office furniture employed 62 percent of the wage and salary upholsterers, and shops that reupholster and repair furniture employed another 17 percent. Over 10 percent worked in shops specializing in reupholstering the seats of automobiles and other motor vehicles, and a few worked in furniture stores. Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement Most upholsterers are trained on the job as a helper to become an experienced worker. It may take as many as 8 to 10 years of experience and progressively more difficult work, however, for an upholsterer to reach the top of the trade.