Design & Media · EFZ
Saddler EFZ
Make leather goods and upholstery.
About this profession
Make leather goods and upholstery. Over 3 years you learn this profession in a host company, at the vocational school and in inter-company courses. At the end you receive a nationally recognised Federal VET Diploma (EFZ).
Day-to-day responsibilities
- ›Cut and prepare leather materials
- ›Perform saddlery stitches by hand or machine
- ›Create upholstery and covers
- ›Conduct repairs and restorations
Skills you'll need
A typical week as an apprentice
Host company
3 days/week — you learn the trade hands-on alongside experienced professionals.
Vocational school
1–2 days/week — general education plus job-specific theory.
Inter-company courses (üK)
Several blocks per year — practise core techniques together with other apprentices.
Where you'll work
Design studios, agencies, in-house creative teams or as a freelancer.
Entry requirements
- Completed compulsory school (Sek A or B, depending on profession). Strong school report in relevant subjects helps.
- A 'Schnupperlehre' (1–5 day taster) is the best way to find out if the profession suits you.
What you earn at the end
Federal VET Diploma (EFZ) — a nationally recognised qualification that opens doors to higher VET (HF), the vocational baccalaureate (BM) and universities of applied sciences.
Apprentice wage
Typical monthly gross wage (CHF). Actual wages vary by sector and region.
Year 1
CHF 700 – 900/ Mt.
Year 2
CHF 950 – 1’200/ Mt.
Year 3
CHF 1’300 – 1’700/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 3/5Our take
Demand for custom leather goods and restoration work remains steady despite automation, requiring continuous adaptation to new trends and materials.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Design & Media apprenticeships, roughly 18–26% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Federal Diploma of Higher Education (BP)
- Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education (HF)
- Vocational Baccalaureate, then university of applied sciences
- Specialization in specific fields
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.