Business Details
12 Years
experience
Expert Soft Furnishing Courses in Potten End
Established in 2014, our school builds upon over 30 years of industry expertise in soft furnishings and upholstery. Founded by Maggi Loughran, a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy with postgraduate teaching qualifications, we provide comprehensive training for both professional development and leisure pursuits. Our purpose-built studio in Potten End offers a relaxed yet professional environment with state-of-the-art facilities. Students benefit from hands-on instruction in projects ranging from basic sewing to advanced curtain-making and loose cover cutting. Our curriculum includes City & Guilds-accredited diplomas, short courses, and bespoke private tuition tailored to individual goals.With a legacy rooted in the London College of Furniture tradition, we combine technical precision with creative freedom. Testimonials highlight our supportive teaching style, industry-relevant skills, and the confidence gained by learners at all levels. We serve both aspiring entrepreneurs seeking business skills and hobbyists pursuing personal projects. Our partnerships with industry experts like fourth-generation upholsterer Matthew Gates ensure comprehensive instruction. The picturesque rural setting enhances the learning experience with ample parking and outdoor spaces.
Services
Soft Furnishing Diploma
Upholstery Courses
Leisure Sewing Classes
Private Tuition
Curtain Making Workshops
Details
- Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of combined teaching and industry experience
- City & Guilds accredited diploma programs available
- Small class sizes with personalized instruction
- Purpose-built studio with professional equipment
- Industry connections through AMUSF and London College of Furniture alumni
Associations and certifications
- City & Guilds
- London College of Furniture
- Fellowship of Higher Education Academy
- Worshipful Company of Upholders
What people say
Fantastic teacher
Learned so much
Highly recommend
Confidence to take commissions
Supportive teaching style
Services
Soft Furnishing Diploma
City & Guilds accredited program covering complete soft furnishing techniques from basic sewing to advanced curtain-making. Designed for career development with portfolio-building handouts. Includes loose cover cutting and interlined curtain projects. Delivered in purpose-built studio with expert one-to-one guidance.
Upholstery Courses
Comprehensive training from novice to professional levels. Covers traditional techniques taught by fourth-generation upholsterer Matthew Gates. Projects include chair reupholstery, headboard making, and period furniture restoration. Combines practical skills with historical context.
Private Tuition
One-to-one instruction for specific projects or skill development. Flexible scheduling available for busy professionals or focused hobbyists. Customised to individual learning goals with expert guidance from industry specialists.
Curtain Making Workshops
Specialist courses covering all aspects of curtain production. Teaches multiple heading styles, lined/unlined construction, and professional finishing techniques. Includes three-day intensive programs with portfolio samples for future reference.
Leisure Sewing Classes
Relaxed environment for creative development with projects like cushion covers and table linens. Designed for personal satisfaction rather than professional accreditation. Encourages social learning with flexible progression options.
People
Maggi Loughran
Founder & Lead Tutor
PGCTLHE qualified tutor with 30+ years industry experience. Former London Metropolitan University senior technician. Awarded City & Guilds Licentiate and Honorary Yeoman of the Worshipful Company of Upholders. Recognised AMUSF expert.
Matthew Gates
Upholstery Instructor
Fourth-generation upholsterer specialising in traditional techniques. Brings generational expertise to practical teaching. Focuses on preserving heritage methods while adapting to modern requirements. AMUSF industry connections.
Questions
What experience levels do your courses cater to?
We teach complete beginners through to professional upholsterers seeking advanced techniques. No prior experience required for entry-level courses.
Are your courses accredited?
Our Soft Furnishing Diploma is City & Guilds accredited. We also offer non-accredited leisure courses and short skills workshops.
What facilities are available?
Our purpose-built studio includes professional sewing machines, overlockers, and ample workspace. Free parking and picnic areas available.
Can I get materials through the school?
Yes, we offer convenient material ordering through our supplier partnerships for course projects.
What makes your school unique?
Combines Maggi Loughran's 30+ years industry experience with FHEA teaching standards and fourth-generation upholstery expertise from Matthew Gates.
Reviews (2)
Sonnie Day
Feb 11, 2020
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Maggi is a first class teacher, i have made my first roman blind and i am not a sewing person, so this will reflect what a great teacher she is, i spent two great days and had such fun.
Sally-Ann Gandecha
Nov 08, 2018
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Cannot speak highly enough of Maggi. Nothing is too much trouble. Brilliant teacher. Fantastic workshop.
