This is a probationary membership intended mainly for recently qualified upholstery or soft furnishing students or apprentices who have gone on to work in these fields. But others working in these fields could also be eligible at the Board's discretion. Associate members may be in business on their own account or employed. Being of a probationary nature, this type of membership lapses after three years but could, at the Board's discretion, be renewed after that period in individual cases.
These members enjoy the benefits of membership but not the right to vote at General Meetings nor to use the crest/logo.