About the Guild
A trade association built by upholstery professionals, for upholstery professionals.
Our Mission
The upholstery trade is at a crossroads. Decades of knowledge risk being lost as experienced craftspeople approach retirement without clear succession plans. Meanwhile, independent shops face mounting pressure from material costs, changing consumer expectations, and a marketplace that increasingly favors volume over quality.
The North American Upholstery Guild exists to change that trajectory. We believe that skilled, independent upholsterers are the backbone of this industry, and that by working together, they can secure a future that respects both the craft and the craftsperson.
Our mission is to provide the collective infrastructure that allows independent upholstery businesses to thrive through better purchasing power, modern business tools, access to contracts that were previously out of reach, and a professional network that turns isolated shops into a connected, resilient industry.
What We Stand For
Craft Excellence
Quality work is the foundation of a sustainable business. We support professional development, certification, and standards that elevate the entire trade.
Independence
Your shop is your shop. Guild membership strengthens your business without compromising your autonomy, your brand, or your creative judgment.
Collective Strength
What one shop can't achieve alone, a network of professionals can. From purchasing to bidding to marketing, the Guild multiplies your reach.
Legacy & Continuity
The skills and knowledge of experienced upholsterers are irreplaceable. We're committed to preserving the trade and ensuring its future through mentorship, documentation, and succession planning including helping owners transition their businesses when the time is right.
Board of Advisors
The Guild's leadership brings together over a century of hands-on experience in upholstery, business management, and industry advocacy.
John B.
Director, Operations
Kayman M.
Director, Business Development
Ken M.
Master Upholsterer
Andrew E.
Chief Financial Officer
Stephanie N.
Creative Director
Nick B.
Director, Supply Chain
Nick S.
Director, Marketing
Fred R.
Advisor
Join a Community of Professionals
The Guild is growing. If you're an upholstery professional looking for a stronger foundation for your business, we'd like to hear from you.
Explore Membership