Rare demonstrations will showcase moquette fabric and traditional seat restoration techniques
VISITORS to the Llangollen and Corwen Railway will have the chance to uncover one of the hidden crafts keeping historic trains alive, as the railway hosts a special upholstery Open Day next month.
The event will take place on Saturday, May 9, with sessions running from 10.00am to 12.00 noon and 2.00pm to 4.00pm, at the railway’s Pentrefelin Depot, off Abbey Road, Llangollen (LL20 8EE).
The open day will offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at the skilled work involved in restoring and maintaining the interiors of heritage carriages, with visitors able to watch demonstrations and learn directly from the railway’s volunteer upholsterers.
A key highlight will be the use of moquette fabric – the tough, patterned material long associated with public transport seating. First introduced in the early 20th century and made famous by the London Underground in the 1930s, moquette remains an iconic part of Britain’s transport heritage and continues to be used in restoration projects today.
During the sessions, attendees will be shown how carriage seats are stripped down, rebuilt and re-covered, while original patterns are carefully preserved to ensure authenticity is maintained across the railway’s fleet.
The event also marks the launch of a new upholstery volunteer group, aimed at encouraging more people to get involved in this specialist area of restoration work.
Robin Crowley, Volunteer Co-ordinator and Trainee Upholsterer at the railway, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for people to see a side of the railway that many don’t realise exists. Upholstery is a vital part of our restoration work, and our team take great pride in maintaining the look and feel of our historic carriages.
“We’re also really excited to be launching a new group focused on upholstery projects, giving more people the chance to get involved and learn these valuable skills.”
Places are strictly limited to 12 participants, with only six available per session, and advance booking is required.
Anyone wishing to attend is asked to email [email protected] to secure a place.
Organisers say the open day will appeal not only to railway enthusiasts, but also to anyone with an interest in traditional craftsmanship and heritage preservation.
