Upholstery Skills Course 2025
Revive Furniture, Renew Yourself: A Unique Upholstery Retreat in France
Immerse yourself in a hands-on, 5-day journey where craftsmanship meets creativity in the enchanting Loire Valley. Guided by expert traditional upholsterer Jacqui Jackson, you’ll breathe new life into a cherished piece of furniture while discovering the joy of traditional upholstery techniques. Enjoy personalised instruction in our serene environment in the centre of Saumur, complemented by nourishing meals, local wines, and the camaraderie of like-minded creatives. With visits to vibrant Brocante markets and moments to explore the beauty of French culture, this retreat offers the perfect blend of skill-building and indulgence.
About Jacqui
Jacqui Jackson is an expert in traditional upholstery and French antique furniture. Jacqui has over 25 years experience in upholstering antique French furniture, after gaining qualifications at the London College of Furniture. Jacqui buys, repairs, upholsters and sells French furniture through her website, to private clients and interior designers and you'll often see her at various fairs in the UK throughout the year.
You can find more information about Jacqui and her French antique items at:
"A fabulous experience and loved the relaxed atmosphere and the hands teaching"
Date: 17th - 22nd May 2025
Group size: 4-6 people
This retreat welcomes all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced upholsterers. Before the retreat, we’ll schedule a one-on-one call to discuss your goals and project ideas, ensuring you maximize your time and leave feeling accomplished.
Choose between our full residential program, offering an immersive experience in our charming retreat, or join us as a day attendee if you live nearby. Either way, you’ll enjoy personalised guidance and a creative atmosphere in the heart of the Loire Valley.
Features of our Upholstery Skills Programme:
Expert one-on-one tuition
With personalised guidance from Jacqui Jackson, you’ll gain confidence and hands-on skills to transform your furniture into stunning pieces to show off in your home. You’ll feel supported every step of the way, ensuring you leave the retreat ready to tackle your other projects.
Private ensuite accommodation
Relax in your own beautifully curated French bedroom room with a private shower, offering comfort and tranquillity after a day of creativity. You’ll wake up refreshed and ready to dive into each day’s inspiring activities.
Crémant on arrival
Start your retreat with a sparkling toast to creativity and connection.
Four-course welcome dinner on Saturday evening
Savour a home cooked French inspired meal while getting to know your fellow guests in a warm and welcoming setting. You’ll feel instantly at home, immersed into French style living surrounded by antiques and Brocante finds. All our table settings and beautifully put together with vintage French crockery and cutlery.
Daily breakfast and lunches
Enjoy delicious, locally-sourced meals served at a beautifully set table, creating moments of indulgence in the midst of your hard work. You’ll feel nourished and energised, ready to take on your creative projects.
Traditional upholstery supplies
All the essential tools and materials you’ll need for your project are provided, so you can focus on learning and creating. You’ll feel prepared and confident, with no need to worry about missing anything important.
An excursion to Chinon's magnificent Brocante market
Explore a treasure trove of vintage finds in one of France’s most vibrant markets in a beautiful setting under the tress along the Vienne River. You’ll discover unique pieces to inspire your creativity or to take home for your next project. Jacqui will share her top tips for choosing the right chair for upholstery projects and other tips on what to look out for when shopping at a Brocante or flea market.
Daily sparkling wine & snacks
Wind down each day with a glass of sparkling wine or non alcoholic beverage and artisanal snacks, celebrating your progress and hard work. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and indulgence in equal measure.
Half-day leisure excursion
Take a break to enjoy wine tasting, shopping, or sightseeing in the picturesque town of Saumur. You’ll experience the rich culture and charm of France, adding even more depth to your retreat.
Personalised upholstery folder
Receive a beautifully prepared folder with detailed illustrations and notes from the course. You’ll leave with a practical resource to support your ongoing creative journey.
This retreat welcomes all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced upholsterers. Before the
retreat, we’ll schedule a one-on-one call to discuss your goals and project ideas, ensuring you maximize your time and leave feeling accomplished.
Choose between our full residential program, offering an immersive experience in our skills programme and in French style living, or join us as a day attendee if you live nearby. Either way, you’ll enjoy personalised guidance and a creative atmosphere in the heart of the Loire Valley.
Click here for more information and itinerary for the 5 day skills retreat
Cost: £1715 per person
"I feel honoured and fulfilled to of had this amazing opportunity to learn a new skill. Thank you so much."
"Jacqui was great with explaining how to proceed with the work I needed for my chair. We all had different projects and she was happy to help each of us with our own needs."
"It was also useful that we all had different projects, and could see what we each had to do, sparking ideas for future projects."
Day attendance workshops
Click here for pricing and booking details for our day attendance workshops
"I appreciate that Jackie took our learning serious but at the same time she was very kind and easily moved from one student to another giving individual help. I stayed at the home for the retreat and had the most beautiful room! Taking a lunch break and being treated to fabulous food served at a beautifully set table added a feeling of luxury in the middle of our work. The conversation and laughter was an important part of the whole experience."
Please ensure you have read our terms and conditions before booking your retreat place: Terms and Conditions.
Any questions at all, don't hesitate to contact us using the form below.
Contatto
Image gallery from previous retreats
