FURNT312 Techniques: Soft
August 4–22, 2008

Upholstery isn't straightforward or simple, though the best may look it. It's multiskilled and multilayered; an understanding of the whole process is essential for a designer to accomplish his or her goals. In this summer class, each student designs and constructs an ottoman for a given interior and develops innovative design concepts appropriate to the context. During showroom visits, students learn about the technical construction of contemporary furniture and the selection of upholstery fabrics. Upon completion of the workshop, each student will have a well-made contemporary piece, a new skill set, knowledge of contemporary upholstery and exposure to a wealth of experience in European and North American furniture design. The class is open to designers who want to learn or practice hands-on design skills as a method of design development. Students from majors such as Textiles, Fashion, Interior Design, Architecture, Industrial Design, and Wood/furniture are welcome: as are non-students. Note: A wood assistant will be available during studio access hours to assist enrolled students with their projects: 4-6 p.m., Mon.- Fri., August 4-21 (excluding the final Friday) and Saturdays, August 9 & 16, 9:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

In this class, students learn contemporary techniques in upholstery. These techniques are applicable to creating 'one-of-a-kind, 'batch' production, or prototype ideas for large-scale production. Students design and construct an upholstered ottoman for a specific, given interior and are encouraged to develop fresh and innovative design concepts appropriate to the context. Participants bring their own diverse experience and skills to class, working cooperatively with other students to achieve their goals. Upon completion, students have a contemporary, well-made ottoman, a whole new set of skills for, and knowledge about, contemporary upholstery, and an exposure to a wealth of experience in European and North American furniture design. The fabrication process for each student's ottoman should be repeatable from the instructions created in class. Students from majors such as Textiles, Fashion, Interior Design, Architecture, Industrial Design, and Wood/furniture are welcome.