Christel Rio

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

I have worked extensively in the nonprofit sector, in the fields of communication, project management, network facilitation, and for the past fifteen years in adult education.
Drawn since adolescence to creative professions and craftsmanship, I eventually decided in 2019 to make a career change into the furniture-making field. I enrolled at CFA La Bonne Graine to earn a CAP in cabinetmaking through a one-year work-study program in 2020, and renewed the experience with a CAP in upholstery for seating in 2022.
These two training programs are highly complementary and give me a versatility that allows me to enjoy working in different areas.

What is your story with L’Établisienne?

After completing the CAP in cabinetmaking, I wanted to take several workshops at L’Établisienne to strengthen certain skills and also explore other fields related to woodworking. I fell in love with straw marquetry and chair upholstery. Interested in the development of third places, I was intrigued by what L’Établisienne offered and how it operated. I became familiar with it during a one-month immersion period in June 2021, as preparations were underway for L’Établisienne’s 10th anniversary celebrations. The following autumn, I was welcomed there as an intern for the entire duration of my upholstery CAP.

What do you do there?

Since July 2022, I’ve had the pleasure of joining L’Établisienne as an employee. I support Laurence with in-person and phone reception for the public attending workshops, using the coworking spaces, or visiting the resale shop. I upholster, work with wood, repair armchairs, and other objects. Thanks to my background as a trainer “from my previous life” and these new experiences, I gradually support people in carrying out their projects through one-on-one workshops. For children, I design and lead creative workshops.

What is:

Your favorite material? Upholstery canvas, which wraps the vegetal horsehair stuffing.

Your favorite tool? The stuffing needle (tire-crin)

Your favorite gesture? Stitching (piquage), which gives the desired shape to the upholstery and is aesthetically beautiful.