From fashion, to upholstery
Before becoming an upholsterer, I spent 20 years working in fashion, living and breathing ‘style’.
At the same time as I was moving on from my fashion career, I bought a wrecked 1960s Guy Rogers sofa from eBay. I sourced a beautiful velvet fabric and had it reupholstered.
The results were beyond what I could have imagined; a bespoke sofa which I loved and a spark of wanting to be able to create similar results from pre-loved and vintage furniture.
Inspired by the possibilities, I spent years honing my craft, training at the coveted Cass Art Faculty of Design at London Metropolitan University and the Association of Master Upholsterers (AMUSF).
Just as good furniture deserves to be shared and admired, so do the skills that create it. I share my knowledge and experience with trainees and newly qualified upholsterers to support them in this wonderful craft.
A dedication to restoration
Since starting Vintique in 2013, I’ve helped hundreds of clients breathe new life into their furniture, from restoring much-loved heirlooms, to revamping modern items with fresh fabrics. Like me, they can’t bear to see beautiful pieces go to waste, when with the right care and attention, they can live on. I’m proud to challenge throw-away culture by providing an eco-conscious alternative.
So much more than ‘re-covering’
Reupholstery restores, revives and redesigns preloved items. It extends the life of furniture, both old and new, with some pieces being passed down through generations. Whether it’s an antique chaise longue, a modern family sofa or your Grandma’s favourite chair, reupholstering will breathe new life and new design into the personality of your home.
5 star service
Based in Sunbury-on-Thames, I work with clients across Surrey, London and nationwide. From sofas, chaises, footstools and armchairs, nothing gives me greater pleasure than giving items a new future, ready to take pride of place in a home, and hopefully be passed down through the generations.
This dedication to excellence has led to Vintique receiving over 200 five star reviews and counting.
Joining BBC’s
Money For Nothing
As well as collaborating with clients, I’m a resident artisan on BBC’s Money For Nothing. I relish the creative challenge of saving furniture from landfill and reinventing it. All my designs have sold, which inspired me to set up Very Vintique, where you can buy your own one of a kind furniture.
Sharing what I’ve learnt
These days, I’m often approached by other upholsterers for advice and mentoring to progress their own businesses. My Spring to Success, online mentoring sessions gives 2 hours of 1:1 support and ongoing advice.
Helping you prepare
If you are considering upholstery as a career and would like to understand more about it and the industry, check out my Upholstery Uncovered video guide.
