Testimonials

"I was particularly pleased to be asked by the AMUSF to assess the work of Wendy's students undertaking the progressive craft training programmes they devised.  I realised that Wendy Shorter was not only a good upholsterer and soft furnisher in her own right but possessed the precious gift of being able to pass on her own skills, enthusiasm and knowledge to her students.  Thus at the end of each year her students earn above average marks." - B. E. Chapman MBE FRSA FAMU Chairman Albert E. Chapman Ltd, Past Master, Worshipful Company of Upholders, Past President Association of Master Upholsterers & Soft Furnishers.

"Wendy’s excellent training, in both soft furnishing and upholstery has meant that we have both achieved distinctions in our assessments. This have ensured a very high level of quality in our work and given us the confidence to start our business, Stuft Interiors, in June 2007. With Wendy as our mentor, the business is flourishing. She gives invaluable on-going support and technical advice and is only ever a phone call away. She has encouraged us to undertake challenging commissions and has always been there to offer support." Cathy & Sharon, Stuft Interiors, Hertfordshire

"As expected the Level 3 Course builds on the techniques and skills taught at Level 2. It has provided me with greater experience and confidence in tackling more complex tasks. Whilst, the course is well supported by supplementary information, Wendy is always on hand to assist and provide expert guidance to overcome any problems."  Maria W, Bedfordshire.

"Just to give you an update on my venture, I have been flat out, buying, selling, commissions, and also now supply, four shops and two web sites with my products.  I have sold furniture to most of the top jockeys and trainers in England, including Tony McCoy." - Sally F, Lincolnshire.

"I'm really enjoying my upholstery 'apprenticeship' with a local upholsterer.  Many thanks for making our course so hands’ on and relevant to the workplace." - Victoria S, Cambridgeshire

"I have found the course to be quite intense but extremely absorbing and enjoyable.  It certainly is not a leisure course and I have learned a tremendous amount in a short period of time. I was amazed at how quickly we started to work on actual pieces and was learning from day one. The 20th century Furniture Design project has been time consuming but I have learned a great deal from doing the project and have put my new found knowledge to use at a recent Antiques Fair.  The course is expensive but having said that I am very impressed with the level of teaching and you do have to pay for this high standard." - Irene W, Hertfordshire.

"I signed up for the summer-week long upholstery course at Wendy Shorter Interiors. I loved it; it exceeded my expectations learning new skills, using tools, industrial sewing machines. In a week I completed a traditionally upholstered drop in seat for a Lloyd loom chair and a piano stool with modern materials. I didn’t realise so much went into traditional upholstery.
I then signed up for the one-year leisure course as level 2 was fully booked and didn’t want to leave it another year after learning all the new skills. I also signed up for level 2 soft furnishings as I thought it would complement the upholstery, it has. In such a short time I find myself constantly examining the quality of furniture, curtains and cushions in people’s houses and in the shops.
With quality teaching, the encouragement and patience (I don’t always get it the first time) from my teachers and fellow students I am slowly gaining more confidence in my creativity and projects.
I really enjoy my days in the learning environment at Wendy Shorter Interiors and stretching myself to do better. It is inspiring to see the dedication and passion shown by level 2’s and 3’s at work.
I have met some lovely people and am hoping to continue and do level 2 & 3. I would love the challenge of tackling a big chair." - Pauline C, Hertfordshire