The Chair Detective
Marcus Elliott • November 6, 2023
From time to time something a bit special enters the workshop. More often than not, these pieces hide their provenance and allure under a tired covering and battered innards which exhibit all the classic signs of the trials and tribulations of many years’ loyal service to its custodians. But, more often than not as you strip away the layers of upholstery, if you know where to look and what to look for, the item begins to tell its story.
Just such a piece made an entrance into our workshop a few weeks ago. On stripping all the old upholstery off, thereby relieving the armchair of its worn-out robes and undergarments, the quality of the frame itself was thus laid bare. What was immediately clear was that this was an item of real quality.
But how could we tell?
Well, the frame was constructed from Walnut, which is by no means common (Beech is more commonly used on what you might term ‘workaday’ chairs, though not so much these days where little more than packing crate timber seems to pass for acceptable). Next, the sheer weight of the frame was not insignificant (how many times does simply the weight of an item signify quality?). Moreover, the cabinet work on the joints was certainly not what you would normally find and something to behold; as a picture paints a thousand words, please see for yourself;
We’re not talking nails, nor screws, dowels, or even a regular mortice and tenon joint, but the most beautifully crafted joinery ever to grace a chair frame. These features are only to be found in the highest quality antique furniture emerging from the rarefied air of the workshops of renowned makers such as Howard and Sons for example.
But this was not a Howard and Sons masterpiece.
On closer inspection, the maker’s mark could be seen on the inside of one of the rear legs.
So, there it was for all to see - this was an armchair from the workshops of the esteemed late 19C/early 20C furniture makers Waring and Gillow.
This maker is perhaps less well known than the likes of celebrated 18C furniture designers and makers such as Chippendale, Sheraton and Hepplewhite, but did you know that Hepplewhite was, for all his celebrity, in fact apprenticed to Gillow. Yes, Hepplewhite learnt his trade from Gillow, the maker of this chair!
This is the stuff of dreams if you’re a furniture geek (or simply someone who appreciates
real quality). For more about Waring and Gillow see link:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waring_%26_Gillow
On the other rear leg there were further marks, albeit somewhat blurry. These were hard to discern, and the ‘penny’ was slow to drop, but, knowing a little of the chair’s history which was recounted to me by the person the chair belonged to, I looked again at the marks and could just make out the letters A and M, with a much clearer 1940 stamp. It did though have some other indistinguishable embossing just below it:
So, what of these marks?
A and M? Short for Air Ministry. This led me to interpret the practically indistinguishable embossed mark below to be that of a crown.
For those in the know, this chair was most likely, therefore, part of a consignment of furniture made by Waring and Gillow under contract from the Air Ministry to furnish the Officers’ Messes of Royal Air Force stations which were popping up all over the country in the lead up to, and during the early years of, the Second World War. This was a time when a huge number of new airfields were being constructed to join the war effort to repel the Nazis from British shores and free continental Europe of their occupation. Naturally, the RAF aircrews and support personnel needed something comfortable to sit on as they recharged
their batteries in the relative tranquility of their Mess Ante Rooms up and down the country during the lulls between operational activities.
The numbers were of course spelling out (can numbers spell?) the year 1940; ie. the date of manufacture.
As a former RAF pilot myself this meant something to me; I felt a personal connection to the chair. What I love about restoring and reupholstering old and antique furniture is that it always has a story to tell. What period does it come from, who made it, where has it spent its days, who has sat in it and what conversations was it privy to over the years?
If only chairs could speak!
It will perhaps come as no surprise that the word ‘chair’ has its origins in Latin (cathedra), and indeed the Greek language (Kathedra). And that’s before we consider the ancient Egyptians’ role in all this! As for a chair as an object in itself, and in its simplest form, it can be described as something (anything) that can be sat upon. In the neolithic age, 4300 to 2000BC, a stone slab did the job. But this description is to overly simplify the vast, almost infinite, range of forms that readily perform this basic functional requirement. From thrones to deckchairs, and everything in between, if it can be sat on, then it’s a chair. But there is of course far more to it than that. If we fulfill the most basic of requirements for a seat then what need is there for all the variants in terms of size, shape, style, comfort, decoration, materials, quality, etc, etc? This suggests that there is clearly a connection, or perhaps even more significantly, a ‘relationship’, between the object and the person or persons for whom the chair is intended for use. Is it to be purely functional, or is the chair a status symbol denoting position in society which, at the extreme, is the monarchical throne. In ancient Egypt pharaohs used chairs simply to physically elevate themselves above those they ruled over (this theme has been consistent throughout the ages of man). In ecclesiastical circles, a bishop’s repose is indeed termed a ‘Cathedra’. Alternatively, a chair might represent art or sculpture, or be a statement of cultural significance. When in the presence of chairs which clearly have some age, I’ve often caught myself drifting off into a world of wondering who would have sat on the chair and when, where it was, what the conversation was and what that chair might have ‘overheard’ - yes, wondering but also wandering, back through time into the world of our forebears.
We are passionate about the craft of upholstery here at Tresithick - this is why we are driven by quality not quantity. It matters far more to us that we deliver unrivalled tuition that adds real value by making the time to properly equip our students with the skills and knowledge they come to us to learn, than we allow ourselves to be driven by financial considerations. Only this way can we achieve the quality of upholstery tuition that we believe our students should rightly expect. We know that hanging around surrounded by lots of other students in the room twiddling your thumbs whilst you wait your ‘turn’ to snatch a share of your tutor’s time and attention is very frustrating - we’ve all been on those courses! A tutor spread too thinly, trying to keep all those plates spinning, continually rushing about trying to help too many students at the same time is not what we are about. This is why we limit numbers to no more than 4 students in any one course week. Upholstery is a craft, a handcraft, that requires time to understand and execute if the best results are to be achieved. As with the majority of true handcrafts - and the clue is in the name - so much of it is tactile, it’s about feeling the work; you can’t throw a pot or sculpt a statue without having your hands in physical contact with the materials. In just the same way, you can’t properly upholster a chair or sofa without feeling it. What should the stuffing feel like? How firm should an edge roll be? How should the fabric be tensioned and what is the right amount of tension? All these (and so many more) questions can only be answered when you have a tutor right next to you who has the time to explain and demonstrate the various techniques and processes fully and provide that baseline, that frame of reference. You will be able to see how much pressure is being applied, you can feel what your tutor feels when it is demonstrated in person, in front of you. Not only that, but of course, should you stray from the taught techniques and procedures then a tutor who has time to properly and continuously monitor student progress will spot this and be able to step in to get you back on the ‘straight and narrow’ before any problems arise. Teaching in its most basic sense is, after all, the transfer of knowledge, skill and experience from one person to another; from tutor to student. This is most effective when the tutor-to-student ratio is appropriately set and managed. If we could provide one-to-one tuition at a reasonable cost for everybody, we would. Unfortunately, this is unrealistic and so we try to do the next best thing by limiting numbers to the minimum needed to support our operation. If you will permit me to use the cliché ‘the devil is in the detail’, this is so true in upholstery. Distance learning via the internet will get you so far, but with a handcraft such as upholstery, the finer points of detail, the ‘touchy feely’ bits and the tricks of the trade can only be conveyed if the tutor has the time and is on hand to actively teach the techniques and guide the student through their project as they are working on it. With groups of only 4 students, we make sure we have that time.
It is oft said that every one of us has a ‘book in them’. Personally, I don’t know that I’m up to that, and if I were, it would be a very short book indeed! So, having eschewed the prospect of scribing the latest ‘No 1 Best Seller’, here’s the next best thing! Welcome to my blog – a personal perspective from the workshop. Down the years I’ve often reflected on how the craft of upholstery brings people together; it’s a fact. In the 16 years we have been running our upholstery courses at Tresithick we have welcomed many hundreds of students through the doors of our workshop - I haven’t actually kept a count but probably should have done as I suspect the total is well over a thousand! They have come to our workshop here in Cornwall from all over the world including places such as - and in no particular order - Toronto, Buenos Airies, Nairobi, Hong Kong, Oregon, Chicago, New York State, and several European countries including Germany, Italy, France, Holland and Spain to name but a few; and let’s not forget all the delightful students we’ve met who have come from literally all corners of our home shores. What I always find fascinating, sometimes illuminating and even perhaps life-affirming, is that no matter where someone is from, everyone brings with them not only their chairs to work on but also their own unique backstory. What’s more is that most are prepared to give us glimpses of it. Our personal histories are both omni and ever-present, to ourselves at least are they not? So to learn a little more about our fellow man (and woman of course) is most interesting and uplifting. And indeed, so many of these backstories are by no means mundane, but instead reveal a dazzling, if not surprising, array of backgrounds of people from all walks of life. From HGV drivers to consultant surgeons, city traders to lawyers, property developers, ‘stunt’ doubles for famous actors (if Gwyneth Paltrow’s hand double counts!), to serving and former UK servicemen and women; everyone is bitten by the upholstery bug it seems and it brings people together. In the small group of students ensconced in our workshop during a typical course week, whilst we all get to grips with the business in hand, it never seems to take very long before we all get to know each other a little bit more as everyone relaxes into the week and these stories naturally filter out. When this happens, the common bonds, the bonds that inspired people to embark on their own upholstery journey, and do so with us at Tresithick, start to reveal themselves. I find it absolutely fascinating, rewarding and indeed a privilege to share life’s stories with like-minded people – every day is a school day, in more ways than one!
Every aspiring upholsterer dreams of weaving their passion into perfection and their skills into artistry. The world of upholstery, with its delicate balance of tradition and innovation, awaits those eager to make their mark. At Tresithick Upholstery Training, we believe in transforming dreams into reality, and it begins with our Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers (AMUSF) accredited courses. A Foundation of Excellence The AMUSF courses we offer are meticulously designed to nurture novices, hobbyists, and aspiring professionals alike. They are structured pathways leading from the basics of upholstery towards the pinnacle of mastery. Each stage is a harmonious blend of theory and hands-on practice, offering students an immersive and comprehensive learning experience. Stage 1: The Craft Certificate The journey begins with the AMUSF Stage 1 Craft Certificate. Here, students dive into the core principles of upholstery. From understanding the materials and tools to tackling many of the foundational stitching techniques, this stage is designed to instill confidence and competence. Every session is a mix of traditional methods and contemporary approaches, ensuring our students graduate with a thorough understanding of the essential building blocks of this absorbing craft. Stage 2: Intermediate Craft Certificate Stage 2 elevates the learning experience. The Intermediate Craft Certificate course unveils more advanced techniques of upholstery. It’s a deeper dive into the, craft introducing more complex pieces, intricate designs, and refined finishing touches. Every class is tailored to not just impart skills but to nurture creativity, and hone quality whilst encouraging students to develop their own unique style. Stage 3: The Upholstery Diploma The finale, Stage 3, is where skills and passion really come together. The Upholstery Diploma furnishes students with the knowledge and expertise to step into the professional world or even start their own businesses. At this stage, students are not just learning; they are creating, innovating, and defining their signature in the craft. Real-World Application But learning at Tresithick is beyond the workshops and materials. Our AMUSF courses are rooted in real-world applications. Students have opportunities to work on live projects, offering them a taste of professional demands, client expectations, and business management. Beyond the Classroom Our past students are testimony to the efficacy of our approach. They’ve stitched their dreams into successful upholstery businesses, turning passion into profession and skills into enterprises. The Tresithick AMUSF courses are not just certifications; they are gateways to a world where every stitch tells a story of passion, precision, and professionalism. Join us, and let’s stitch those upholstery dreams into tangible, touchable, and treasurable reality. At Tresithick, every thread woven is a step closer to a world where your craftsmanship graces homes and spaces, echoing the refined skills, profound passion, and unerring creativity you embody. Your journey from an enthusiastic learner to a master upholsterer begins here. Welcome to a world where dreams are stitched into exquisite reality, one thread at a time.
Embarking on a journey to turn your passion into a profession is a daring adventure which takes a leap of faith. In the world of upholstery, this transition is artful, intricate, and profoundly rewarding. At Tresithick Upholstery Training, we don’t just shape artisans; we mould entrepreneurs, turning skills into thriving enterprises amidst the serene landscapes of Cornwall. Creativity and Inspiration Tresithick is nestled in the heart of Cornwall, where nature’s profound beauty meets human creativity. Every lesson, every practice session is infused with inspiration drawn from the surrounding landscapes. Here, upholstery isn’t just a skill; it’s an art where nature and human creativity entwine, giving birth to pieces that aren’t just beautiful but a reflection of your growing confidence. Entrepreneurial Journey Our curriculum goes beyond the traditional boundaries of teaching. As students traverse the journey from novices to towards masters, an entrepreneurial spirit is woven into their learning. Business insights, market trends, and entrepreneurial strategies are seamlessly integrated into the courses, turning every artisan into a budding business owner. The Tresithick Advantage AMUSF Graduates from Tresithick don’t just step out with a certificate; they emerge with a business mindset, fortified by the serene and innovative environment of Cornwall. Upholstery is sometimes innovative; the skills are unmatched, and the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and kicking. Every graduate is a testament to an education that is holistic, enriching, and tailored to your individual needs, helping to turn skills into successful enterprises.
Embarking on a journey to master the timeless art craft of upholstery requires not just passion and dedication, but a robust educational pathway that systematically transforms a novice into budding expert. At Tresithick Upholstery Training, our AMUSF accredited courses are meticulously designed, to offer a structured journey through the intricate world of upholstery. This journey, spanning across three comprehensive stages, offers not just skill acquisition but also the confidence to turn your craftsmanship into a professional pursuit. Stage 1: The Launch Pad Every journey begins with a single step, and in the world of upholstery, it commences with the Craft Certificate under the auspices of the AMUSF, an organisation that’s been in existence since 1947. It's a profound dive into the foundational techniques, materials, and tools essential for this craft. Each session is a harmonious blend of theory and practical exercises, ensuring every student emerges with a well-rounded grasp of the basics. As you stitch, cut, and shape, a world of possibilities begins to unravel, setting the stage for the intermediate level. Stage 2: The Midway Mastery The Intermediate Craft Certificate is where skills start to flourish. This stage is characterise by a deeper exploration of the more complex techniques, a blend of the traditional and the contemporary. Each piece crafted is a testimony to growing expertise, a mix of learned techniques, and emerging personal style. Here, students not only refine their skills but begin to carve out a niche, an individual expression in the diverse world of upholstery. Stage 3: The Pinnacle of Expertise The third stage, the Upholstery Diploma, is the crown jewel of our AMUSF accredited courses. It’s where students transform into budding masters, ready to either join the esteemed ranks of professional upholsterers or venture into entrepreneurship. With advanced techniques, business acumen, and a touch of artistry, graduates are prepared to shape the future of upholstery. Turning Skills into a Canvas Our three-stage journey is not just a curriculum; it’s a canvas where skills, passion, and creativity merge. Every stitch is a brushstroke, every piece a is your own masterpiece, shaping not just materials but futures. In the serene, inspiring environment of Cornwall, learning transcends textbooks and workshops – it morphs into an experience, a holistic blend of skill, art, and nature. A Future Woven with Excellence As graduates of our AMUSF courses, students step into the world armed with more than skills – they emerge equipped with the confidence to turn each piece into an expression, each project into a testimony of expertise, and each opportunity into a step towards a promising future. With the lush landscapes of Cornwall as the backdrop, every course, every lesson, is a stitch in the rich tapestry of their professional journey. Embark on this transformative journey where novices morph into aspiring masters, and skills turn into legacies. At Tresithick, we’re not just teaching upholstery; we’re weaving futures, one skilled artisan at a time.
Nestled in the heart of the enchanting landscapes of Cornwall, our leisure upholstery courses offer more than just skill enhancement - they provide a soulful retreat into a world where nature and creativity meet. Imagine being surrounded by the lush rural landscape, the dramatic Atlantic coastline, and serene environments of Cornwall while your hands deftly learn the intricate craft of upholstery. At Tresithick Upholstery Training, we bring this idyllic vision to life. A Journey of Discovery and Relaxation Each five-day leisure course is carefully curated to provide an experience rich in creativity delivered amidst the calming landscapes of Cornwall, turning each lesson into an almost therapeutic session. We believe that the best learning happens when you are in the right environment, with the right equipment and materials, alongside people with the requisite skills, knowledge and motivation to provide the highest quality teaching; what better place to satisfy that desire than the picturesque locales of Cornwall? Mastering the Craft The courses, led by our expert tutor with a wealth of experience of both upholstery and teaching behind him, are designed to instil in you the foundational to advanced techniques of upholstery. As your hands get busy, your soul gets a chance to unwind and rejuvenate. Embrace the natural surroundings is and a step into inner peace. Beyond Upholstery Whilst the core of our five-day leisure courses is fundamentally rooted in encouraging, supporting and inspiring you as you ‘dip your toes’ into the world of upholstery, we strive to ensure your experience is much more than that. Every session is a blend of learning and leisure, so amidst the teachings of traditional and contemporary upholstery methods, yes, there are moments of concentration of course, but we also have a lot of fun along the way. An Artistic Retreat Every corner of Cornwall brings a distinct touch of nature’s artistry. The mesmerizing views act as a source of inspiration, boosting creativity and innovation. Here, each student finds an outlet for their unique artistic and creative expression, inspired not just by an expert tutor but by the breathtaking surroundings. Join Us in Paradise Join one of our five-day leisure upholstery courses and step into a paradise world where learning meets leisure, skill meets serenity, and craftsmanship meets creativity. At Tresithick, we promise you an odyssey experience where your passion for upholstery finds its home in the tranquil vibes of Cornwall.
Cornwall, with its alluring landscapes, serene beaches, dramatic coastline and artistic ambiance, stands as a haven where creativity isn’t just inspired but profoundly celebrated. Tresithick Upholstery Training, situated in a quintessentially Grade 2 Listed Cornish stone barn and nestled in this picturesque setting, offers an experience that’s uniquely remarkable - it’s where high quality upholstery training intersects with the soul-soothing calm of a vacation. Upholstery Learning - A Relaxing Endeavour Imagine diving into the intricate world of upholstery, where each stitch and pattern unfolds a new chapter of learning, and each pause in learning allows you to soak in the ethereal beauty of Cornwall. The leisure upholstery courses at Tresithick are artfully crafted to offer this balanced experience. It’s an academic retreat where learning and relaxation are not two separate entities but a harmonious blend. Every lesson taken, every skill imparted is enriched by the natural tranquillity of Cornwall. The lush green landscape in this tucked-away location and the melodious whispers of our rural surroundings help to feed the soul. It’s not just about mastering the art of upholstery; it’s about letting the surrounding serenity seep into every creation, making each piece not just a work of art but a narrative of nature’s silent, enchanting tales. The Vacation Vibe Our upholstery leisure courses are detailed yet unhurried, intensive yet relaxing. As the week’s course rolls out in front of you there’s always room to breathe, to pause, to admire, and to let the Cornwall air inspire the next stitch. Every day of learning is akin to a day of vacation, where the soul is as engaged as the hands, and the mind is as relaxed as it is alert. Join us in this odyssey where each upholstery lesson is a step into profound learning, and each gaze at Cornwall’s landscape is a step into serenity. Here, each crafted upholstery piece is as celebrated as a sunset viewed, each stitch mastered is as cherished as each wave listened to. Tresithick isn’t just a training centre; it’s a haven away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life it’s a sanctuary where upholstery aspirations and friendly interaction meet the vacation soul, where relaxed but detailed learning meets gentle living, and where each day is absorbing and satisfying.
The connection between the human spirit and the art of upholstery is undeniable. At Tresithick Upholstery Training, we recognize that the environment where learning takes place is just as crucial as the course content itself. That’s why we’ve nestled our world-class training centre in the tranquil and breathtaking landscapes of Cornwall. Here, craftsmanship isn’t just taught; it’s experienced amidst an ambiance that whispers inspiration into every stitch. Where Nature Nurtures Creativity Cornwall’s enchanting landscapes are more than a view; they are a vibrant participant in the learning journey of every student. As you delve into the intricate techniques of upholstery, the surrounding beauty becomes a source of inspiration, creativity, and innovation. Here, every piece crafted is not just a display of learned skills but a testament to nature-inspired artistry. Leisure Courses: A Retreat for the Soul Our leisure courses are a journey where learning and relaxation walk hand-in-hand. Amidst the comprehensive lessons, there’s an unspoken liberty to pause and soak in the atmosphere, allowing the soul to catch up with the evolving skills. It’s not just about becoming an upholsterer; it’s about evolving as an artist whose creativity is as boundless as the horizons of Cornwall. The Cornwall Touch Every piece that is born here at Tresithick carries an ineffable touch of Cornwall. It’s an essence, a spirit that can’t be scripted but can be felt in every creation. Our students don’t just graduate with a certificate; they step out with a piece of Cornwall’s soul, an element that distinguishes their craftsmanship and resonates with every beholder. Join the Tresithick Odyssey Embark on a sojourn where every lesson is a step deeper into the craft of upholstery and every gaze outside the window is a step closer to the soul of Cornwall. At Tresithick, each course is an odyssey where skills are honed, souls are nurtured, and inspiration is born. Your seat awaits, amidst threads and tacks, woods and fabrics, and in the silent yet eloquent embrace of Cornwall’s nurturing nature. Here, each stitch gives satisfaction, and every crafted piece is a joy of skills, soul, and peaceful surroundings.
In the world of upholstery, tradition and innovation are not opponents but complement one another, gracefully weaving the past, present, and future into ever piece created. At Tresithick Upholstery Training, we celebrate this dance in eachcourse we offer. Nestled amidst the rural beauty of Cornwall, we extend an invitation to an experience where timeless craftsmanship meets contemporary innovation. Rooted in Tradition Every thread woven and stitch made at Tresithick is infused with the wisdom of traditional upholstery techniques. The legacy of the age-old artistry is held with reverence. Students immerse themselves in practices that have stood the test of time, learning the delicate yet powerful art of hand-stitching, classic designs, and the eloquence of vintage craftsmanship. Embrace the New Yet, in this sanctuary of traditional creativity, innovation is not cast aside. Our courses are alive with the pulse of modern trends, tools, and technologies. As students explore the classical, they’re also introduced to contemporary techniques. Every piece crafted is a testament to a balanced blend where tradition meets modernity. The Cornwall Canvas Amidst the ethereal beauty of Cornwall, creativity is accentuated. The tranquil beaches, serene landscapes, and the timeless allure of nature echo the elegance of traditional upholstery. Simultaneously, the vibrant and eclectic energy of Cornwall’s cultural tapestry mirrors the innovation of contemporary designs. Crafting Masterpieces Our students embark upon a journey where every learned technique is a stitch weaving the old and new. Every crafted piece of upholstery is not just a functional or aesthetic entity but a masterpiece telling tales of a time-honoured tradition gracefully embracing the touches of modern innovation. Learning and Living the Art At Tresithick, you’re not just learning; you’re living the evolution of upholstery. The hands-on experience is enriched with theoretical insights, historical perspectives, and future trends. Each session is a step back in time and a leap into the future, ensuring our students are not just artisans but connoisseurs of the upholstery timeline. Join the Tresithick Tapestry We invite you to be a thread in the beautiful tapestry where every weave is a blend of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Your journey here is not just about mastering skills; it’s about becoming a part of a legacy where each stitch, pattern, and design is a silent sonnet singing praises of a craft that knows no bounds of time. In the heart of Cornwall, a stitching odyssey awaits, where hands are busy weaving the dance of tradition and innovation, and souls are basking in the timeless beauty of a craft as ancient as the hills and as contemporary as the morrow’s sunrise.
