Who Are We

Founded in 1947 as the Association of Master Upholsterers (AMU), the AMUSF was established to safeguard the interests of upholsterers, small furniture makers, and soft furnishers.

Over the years, the Association has evolved and grown from its post-war origins into a dynamic, modern organisation that continues to advocate for the professionals in upholstery and soft furnishings today.

The Association is represented externally by our President and Vice President, while a dedicated Board of Directors oversees the strategic direction of the AMUSF. Day-to-day operations are managed by our Association Manager, supported by a committed office team.

Since its inception, the Association has significantly broadened the range of services and support it offers to members. While continuing its role as a lobbying body, the AMUSF now provides a variety of valuable resources, including guidance on material sourcing, Health and Safety regulations, HR advice, and compliance with fire safety standards for both domestic and contract furniture. Members also benefit from a group buying scheme, a free legal helpline, and much more.

To keep members informed, the Association publishes a quarterly magazine and a monthly e-newsletter, offering the latest industry news and updates on key developments affecting the trade.

The AMUSF is also a leader in training and education, overseeing the most comprehensive upholstery qualifications in the UK. We believe that fostering skills and knowledge is essential for the long-term success and sustainability of the upholstery and soft furnishing industries.

For more details, visit our Training pages.

Our members range from small, independent businesses to larger companies, all offering a broad spectrum of standard and specialised services within both the domestic and contract markets. Whether it's a sole trader working from a small workshop or a business with multiple employees, each member shares a passion for upholding the high standards that discerning customers expect.

The services provided by our members span across various fields, including traditional upholstery, antique restoration, modern upholstery (including contract work for public buildings), furniture frame and bespoke furniture making, loose covers, car and coach trimming, marine upholstery, bespoke bed manufacturing, polishing, caning, and more.

In the realm of soft furnishings, members specialize in areas such as curtains, draperies, blinds, and lampshade making. While the range of work is vast, most members focus on either upholstery or soft furnishing.

Additionally, our membership includes key supporters of the industry, such as craft educators, DIY suppliers, and trade suppliers.

Consumers can easily find a member in their area using our Member Directory.

If you're interested in becoming a member, more information is available here.

The Association recognises that the strength of the upholstery and soft furnishing sector relies heavily on the quality of service provided by its members. Ensuring consumer confidence in our members' work is a core focus of the Association. For this reason, upholsterers and soft furnishers seeking membership must undergo a thorough verification process. This process evaluates the quality of their craftsmanship, work environment, and customer service to ensure they meet our high standards. Typically, applicants will have operated their own business for at least three years following their training before becoming eligible for full membership.

In the rare event of a dispute between a member and a customer, the Association offers a complaints and mediation procedure. This service helps facilitate constructive communication between both parties, guiding them toward a fair and mutually acceptable resolution.

Our diverse membership includes businesses of all sizes, from sole traders in small workshops to larger companies with multiple employees, all dedicated to maintaining the high standards expected by discerning consumers. Members offer a wide range of services, including traditional and modern upholstery, antique restoration, contract work for public buildings, furniture frame and bespoke furniture making, loose covers, car and coach trimming, marine upholstery, bespoke bed manufacturing, polishing, caning, and more.

In soft furnishings, members specialise in curtains, draperies, blinds, and lampshade making. While the scope of services is broad, most members focus on either upholstery or soft furnishing.

Consumers can easily locate a member in their area using our Member Directory.