About Us

My name is James Mason. I’ve worked in the Upholstery business since I was 16 years old. It’s the only thing I’ve ever done.

Since leaving school in 1988 I’ve worked in the Upholstery trade. I started at Chapel Upholstery old filling cushions and learning the ropes. I progressed on to “the bench” in a short time working on a mixture of both traditional leather designs (like Chesterfields) and modern styles of furniture. As my passion for the business grew, I found myself wanting to learn more about the Upholstery trade. I was delighted when I landed a new job here at Reliable Upholstery as the Junior Upholsterer.

I worked alongside Charly whose wealth of experience right across the trade was something to behold. His passion and workmanship soon rubbed of on me and I progressed as a tradesman under his tutorship quickly learning how to tackle both antique and new furniture. Charly recently retired after 40 years in the business.

The owner of Reliable Upholstery was the late Colin Scholes. A tough boss but a fair one. He worked us hard, and now that I own the business, that work ethic has stuck. Colin put his faith in me to go out and see customers in their homes and I took to it like a duck to water. Chatting with folk has always come easy to me and I think that stems from working on Bury Market from 11 years old!

I looked forward to Fridays when the three of us would often go out for a pint or two after work. Spending most of my career around Colin and Charly has given me the knowledge, skills and expertise that only comes with experience.

Upholstery is the only thing I’ve ever done so taking over the business from Colin a few years ago was a natural step for me. Having worked in this trade for over 35 years there’s not much I haven’t tackled but you never know what’s around the corner!

We’re a small close-knit team here. Andy has done Upholstery from leaving School at 14. Maiah is just finishing her 1st year of her apprenticeship and is coming along very well; and my Wife Michelle does all the sewing as well as the odd delivery or two with me.