Car upholsterer

What does a car upholsterer do? – Tasks and work environment

A car upholsterer works with reupholstering, repairing, and restoring car interiors. Common tasks include replacing worn seats, repairing damage in padding and textiles, and installing new materials such as leather, fabric, or synthetic leather. The work may also involve manufacturing custom interior details for vintage cars or exclusive vehicles. The working environment is often workshop-based and requires both good physical fitness and precision, as the work involves close contact with tools, machinery, and various materials. Often, work is performed in small teams or on assignments from car dealerships, repair shops, and private clients.

Salary development over time

The salary development for car upholsterers has been clearly positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,100 SEK per month. During 2023, the average salary increased to 30 000 SEK, which represents a roughly 15% increase. Between 2023 and 2024, the increase continued but at a slightly slower pace, reaching 30 900 SEK per month, an increase of about 3%. This salary growth reflects increased demand for craft skills and a growing interest in car restoration, especially in the vintage and luxury segments. At the same time, rising material costs and specialization have contributed to pushing up wages. The shortage of new recruits in craft professions may also be a contributing factor to the wage increase.

Car upholsterer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
• Hourly wage: 186 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: No specific data available
• Regional differences: No clear regional differences reported

Education and qualifications

To work as a car upholsterer, a basic education in upholstering is usually required, followed by specialization in car interiors. Education can take place within the craft program at upper secondary school or as adult education, often supplemented with practical training. Practical skills, a feel for materials, and attention to detail are key qualities developed through education and work experience.

• Formal education: Craft program with a specialization in upholstering (3 years)
• Certifications/courses: Specialized courses in car interior design and material science
• Practical training: At least a few months of internship at a workshop is recommended
• Prerequisites: Approved grades in compulsory school, interest in craftsmanship
• Self-study: Possible through online courses and guidance from experienced upholsterers

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for car upholsterers include wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes flexible working hours. Some employers also offer skills development, tool allowances, and insurance. Bonuses may also occur within the industry for larger projects or outstanding performance.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of car upholsterer is characterized by a relatively limited number of trained professionals, which can be advantageous for those with specialized skills. At the same time, the narrow field makes the job market sensitive to economic fluctuations and changing demand. However, increased interest in vintage cars and custom car interiors has benefited the profession in recent years. Challenges include ergonomic working positions and the need to constantly update knowledge about new materials and techniques. Digitalization and changing consumer patterns may, in the long term, influence the demand for craft work within the automotive industry.

Tips for those who want to become a car upholsterer

To succeed as a car upholsterer, it is good to combine meticulousness with a genuine interest in both cars and craftsmanship. Developing a sense for details and material choices is crucial, so that each project achieves the right finish and durability. The ability to work independently under time pressure is important, especially when delivering larger projects on short notice. Creative problem-solving facilitates handling unexpected challenges, such as recreating interiors for old cars where original materials are missing. Good physical condition and endurance are needed to handle work tasks that require strength and precision. Social skills are an advantage, as contact with customers sometimes involves interpreting and realizing individual wishes. Finally, an open mind for new technology and methods allows for development in line with industry trends.

Key facts about Car Upholsterers

• Education level: Upper secondary (craft program) with opportunities for further education
• Work environment: Workshop-based, often in small teams or small companies
• Work form: Full-time, part-time, or hourly employment available
• Demand: Limited number of trained professionals, approximately 341 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: Material science, sewing, and creative problem-solving

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a car upholsterer can advance to supervisory roles, become self-employed, or specialize in exclusive car interiors and vintage cars. Many choose to develop their own business or take on more complex projects within, for example, boat interiors or aircraft cabins. The employment agency’s forecasts for upholsterer groups do not provide a specific assessment for car upholsterers due to limited data, but there are indications of continued demand within craft professions. With approximately 341 job openings within the profession, the job market is relatively stable, but competition may vary depending on region and specialization.

Frequently asked questions about Car Upholsterers

• What does a car upholsterer earn?
  - A car upholsterer has an average salary of 30 900 SEK per month.
• What is the working environment like for car upholsterers?
  - The working environment is workshop-based and often involves physical work with tools and materials.
• What education is required to become a car upholsterer?
  - The most common is the craft program with a specialization in upholstering, supplemented with practical training and possibly specialized courses.
• Are there job opportunities for car upholsterers?
  - There are approximately 341 reported job openings within the profession.
• What is the hourly wage for a car upholsterer?
  - The average hourly wage is 186 SEK.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Prognoses are not available specifically for car upholsterers, but demand within craft professions is stable.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, creativity, and perseverance are important qualities for success as a car upholsterer.