Louisiana Upholstery Retreat & Workshop Recap

This fall we tried something new in Louisiana, and it turned out better than we ever imagined. We hosted both a 2-day upholstery workshop and a 5-day retreat, giving us the chance to test out a brand-new series format.

The Beta Test: One Frame, Many Styles

For the first time, every participant started with the same chair frame, but the end results couldn’t have been more different. This “beta test” allowed us to see how each maker could take the same foundation and, through fabric, leather, cowhide, paint, and trim, turn it into a one-of-a-kind piece that reflected her personal style. The variety was stunning and showed just how much creativity comes alive when you give everyone the same starting point.

The 2-Day Workshop

Our 2-day gals came in ready to dive straight into upholstery. They had their chair frames already painted before arrival, which meant the focus was on learning upholstery techniques, adding hides and fabrics, and putting their personal stamp on the finished piece. In just two days, they left with completed chairs they could be proud of.

Here's what the 2-day chairs looked like before they were torn down and painted.

Here they are after! 

The 5-Day Retreat

The 5-day retreat gave us time to go deeper. These participants started from the ground up: tearing down old upholstery, repairing frames, painting, and then fully upholstering their chairs. It was a complete journey from raw frame to finished masterpiece. Along the way, we also mixed in creative sessions: iPhone photography, sugar cookie decorating, Southern cooking, a presentation from the historic Gray Ranch, and even beef tallow skincare making.

Here's the 5 day chair prior to tear down

Here they all are after!

Collaboration in Action

Our hosts, Stacy and Heather, set a powerful example of collaboration throughout the week. Instead of working on separate projects, they teamed up to tackle a wingback chair, a bigger challenge that unfolded over the course of seven days. Watching them work side by side was inspiring for all of us, and the finished chair was absolutely stunning.

This was Stacy and Heather's chair prior to tear down.

Here's their chair after! Photo credit- Caitlyn Dionne.

Looking Ahead

These Louisiana workshops and retreats were more than just workshops and classes, they were an experiment in building skills, sparking creativity, and strengthening community. The beta test showed us that working from the same frame brings out unique artistry in every maker, and we’ll definitely be continuing to include this format in the future at select events.

We are already planning the next workshop series, and if you’ve been waiting to join us, now’s the time to get on the list. Every retreat brings new friendships, fresh inspiration, and unforgettable chairs, and we’d love to see you at the next one!

Happy Upholstering!
~Sierra