WORKSHOP HOST

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Head Tutor

Gareth Rees has been an upholsterer for nearly 30 years, developing his craft through hands-on training in workshops across England and Wales. His experience spans a wide range of furniture-making disciplines, including cabinet work and mattress making, giving him a well-rounded and practical understanding of traditional furniture construction. Early in his career, he contributed to restoration projects for prestigious organisations such as the National Trust and English Heritage.

In 2004, Gareth established his own upholstery business, undertaking commissions for high-end interior designers, bespoke furniture makers, private collectors, antique dealers, embassies, and museums. His work is known for its authenticity, precision, and respect for traditional methods.

From 2017 to 2025, Gareth served as Director and full-time tutor at the British School of Upholstered Furniture in Oxfordshire, where he taught the Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers (AMUSF) Diploma programme. He was also lead tutor for the Advancements in Traditional Upholstery Diploma, delivered in partnership with the Guild of Traditional Upholsterers (GTU). During this time, he trained and mentored a new generation of upholsterers, many of whom have gone on to establish careers within the trade.

During the 2020–21 Covid-19 lockdowns, Gareth delivered a highly regarded lecture series on furniture history to students across the UK and the United States. He continues to lecture widely, both online and in person, throughout Europe and North America, sharing his knowledge of upholstery history and its practical application.

Gareth remains actively involved in the upholstery profession at a national level. He serves as Examination and Journeyman Secretary of the Guild of Traditional Upholsterers and as Director of Training for the Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers, overseeing training standards across the UK. More recently, he joined the Trade and Education Board of the Worshipful Company of Upholders.

In March 2023, Gareth was awarded the prestigious Master Upholders Certificate by the Worshipful Company of Upholders of the City of London, in recognition of his craftsmanship, professional achievements, client endorsements and significant contribution to the trade. In 2025, he was also named a finalist in the Heritage Crafts Association Trainer of the Year Award, further highlighting his impact as an educator.

Although now primarily focused on education, Gareth continues to take on a small number of select commissions, specialising in decorative arts from 1840 to 1950. Known for his clear and engaging teaching style, he adapts his approach to suit each individual, creating a relaxed yet informative learning environment. His depth of knowledge, combined with a genuine passion for sharing traditional skills, has made him a highly respected figure within the field of upholstery.