What does being an upholster mean to you?
Being an upholstery means having the opportunity to be part of a project that makes a huge difference in its value. I can give an old piece another decade of life and purpose instead of being replaced with something new.

How did you get started in upholstery?
 I have always sewn at home, doing small clothing repairs or craft projects taught by my grandmother when I was young. But my daughter is the office manager here at Fountain of Youth for Boats, and they needed an upholsterer. She knew I was a quick learner and had a background with sewing machines. They gave me a chance with quick training, and over time, it clicked. 

What types of upholstery do you do?
For work, I do all types of marine and general outdoor seating cushions that are removable. 

How long have you been upholstering?
I have been an upholsterer for 2 years with the company that has been doing it for over 50 years total.

What is your biggest consumer demand?
Wakeboarding boats with sun-faded and cracked vinyl, pontoons, and some fishing boats.

What is your favorite upholstery project you’ve done?
A complete MasterCraft!

What is the strangest item you’ve found in a restoration?
I found a really old coin once.

Have you noticed any up & coming trends?
I’ve been noticing a lot of “plain: concepts with neutral colors. Diamond stitch is also coming back strong in a lot of boats. 

What changes would benefit the upholstery industry?
More individuals who have a creative mind and are willing to do something bold and different to make their boat or furniture speak for itself and well as introducing sewing machines to young adults to learn a simple trade!   

Have you ever been featured on TV, Online, or in another publication?
No

Some answers have been edited for clarity.