- Salary statistics
- Upholsterer, furniture etc.
Upholsterer, furniture etc.
30 800 - 30 900 kr / month
Hantverksyrken
Salary progression Upholsterer, furniture etc.
What does a furniture upholsterer do – tasks and work environment
A furniture upholsterer works with covering, renovating, and restoring furniture such as chairs, sofas, and armchairs. Tasks include selecting and cutting textiles, stuffing and sewing fabrics, and installing decorative details. The role also involves assessing furniture condition and recommending suitable materials and techniques for restoration. Upholsterers often work in workshops, but some assignments may be performed at private homes or public locations. The work environment is craft-based and may involve heavy lifting and working with tools and machines.
Salary development over time
The salary for a furniture upholsterer has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,100 SEK per month, increasing to 30 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 900 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an overall increase of approximately 18.4% over three years. The largest increase occurred between 2022 and 2023, likely linked to increased demand for craftsmanship skills and a generally higher salary level within craft trades. The market for upholsterers is often influenced by interior design trends and reuse, which can drive wages when more people seek customized or restored furniture. At the same time, the profession is relatively small, which may lead to regional and employer variations.
Furniture upholsterer salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
- Hourly wage: 186 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: No specific data on salaries for men or women
- Regional differences: No specific data available
Education and qualifications
To work as a furniture upholsterer, a vocational education in upholstery is usually required, often at upper secondary school level or through adult education. Practical experience is highly valuable, and many supplement their training with apprenticeships or internships with established upholsterers. There are also opportunities for further training and specialization through short courses and industry seminars.
- Formal education: Vocational training in upholstery or furniture craftsmanship (typically 2–3 years)
- Internship: Apprenticeship or internship recommended
- Certifications: Industry courses and further training can be advantageous
- Prerequisites: Interest in craftsmanship and material knowledge
- Tips: Self-study and online courses can provide basic insights and skills training
Experienced upholsterers with a good sense of design often have opportunities to work on exclusive projects, such as restoring antique furniture or undertaking special assignments for interior designers. This can provide variety and prestigious work within the profession.
Common benefits and compensations
Typical benefits for furniture upholsterers may include wellness allowances, work clothing, flexible working hours, and sometimes bonuses for larger projects. Some employers also offer skills development or access to specialized tools and materials. Employment conditions vary depending on the workplace and employment type, especially between small workshops and larger companies.
Competition and challenges
The competition within the profession of furniture upholsterer varies depending on region and demand for craftsmanship services. Since the profession is niche and the number of trained upholsterers is limited, there are good opportunities for those with the right skills. At the same time, staying updated on new materials and techniques, as well as building a strong reputation, can be challenging. Digitalization and import of cheaper furniture may impact demand for traditional craftsmanship. Ergonomic work and heavy lifting are also challenges, as is running your own business if that path is chosen. The profession requires both technical skill and business acumen.
Tips for aspiring furniture upholsterers
To succeed as a furniture upholsterer, it’s important to have a keen eye for detail, as the work demands precision and a sense of aesthetics. Patience is valuable for time-consuming restorations and creative challenges. Being service-oriented and attentive helps in understanding customer needs and building long-term relationships. For those with initiative and entrepreneurial spirit, starting your own business or specializing in niche areas are options. Finally, an interest in design and materials helps to stay inspired and updated in the craft.
Key facts about furniture upholsterers
- Education level: Vocational training in upholstery or furniture craftsmanship
- Work environment: Workshop, sometimes at clients’ premises
- Work form: Craft profession, often small businesses or self-employment
- Demand: 341 registered job openings in the profession
- Special skills: Material knowledge and design understanding
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a furniture upholsterer, there are opportunities to undertake more advanced and specialized projects, such as restoring antique furniture or collaborating with interior designers. Some choose to start their own business or develop a niche in exclusive materials and design. Based on the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact outlook, as the profession is small and data is limited. However, with 341 available jobs in the sector, there is a certain demand, especially for those with the right skills and flexibility regarding work location.
Common questions about furniture upholsterers
- What does a furniture upholsterer earn per month?
- The average salary is 30 900 SEK per month. - What education is required to become a furniture upholsterer?
- Vocational training in upholstery or furniture craftsmanship, often at upper secondary school level or through adult education. - What is the job market like for furniture upholsterers?
- There are 341 available jobs in the profession, but no precise forecast can be provided due to limited data. - What personal qualities are important in this profession?
- Attention to detail, patience, service-mindedness, and interest in design and craftsmanship. - Can I work as an independent entrepreneur?
- Yes, many upholsterers choose to start their own business or work as freelancers. - Are there opportunities for further education?
- Yes, through industry courses, certifications, and specialization in different materials or techniques. - What is the work environment like?
- Usually workshop environments, but assignments can also be carried out at clients' premises or in public spaces.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30800 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30800 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30800 kr | 30900 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Upholsterer, furniture etc. has the SSYK code 7533, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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