Archive for February, 2011

The Hog Ring Sponsorship Program

Published by Nadeem Muaddi on February 27th, 2011

Reaching more auto trimmers than any other online publication, The Hog Ring is poised to revolutionize communications within the auto upholstery industry – for trimmers, manufacturers and suppliers alike.

In fact, everyday more professionals are discovering the benefits of  our site. SEMA even recently named our founders among its list of the top 35 leaders under the age of 35 who are changing the automotive industry.

By sponsoring The Hog Ring, you too can be a part of that change.

The Hog Ring is seeking sponsors who recognize the value in what we do, are interested in helping us grow and excited about forging a lasting relationship with our audience.

In short, we’re inviting companies whose values, products and services we believe in to join our growing family.

Through sponsorship, you can build brand awareness and empower your target market at the same time – an opportunity that has never before existed in this industry.

Are you ready to step into The Hog Ring? For program details, contact info@thehogring.com.


Street Rodder Features DIY Door Panels

Published by Naseem Muaddi on February 24th, 2011

I just picked up the latest issue of Street Rodder Magazine and found a great article about building custom door panels with Tony Arme of Hot Rods by Dean using products provided by Hagan Street Rod Necessities.

Pete Hagan, renowned street rod designer and owner of Hagan Street Rods, has created a simplified formula for designing door panels. He has introduced a line of products supplying you with everything you need to make your own custom door panels – including base panel board, custom-formed armrests and an array of precision cut 1/8” board designs. Combine the pieces and use your imagination to make your own one-off design.

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Gucci Designs LE Fiat 500

Published by Nadeem Muaddi on February 24th, 2011

Speaking of Gucci interiors, Fiat and the Italian fashion powerhouse have teamed up create a limited-edition 500, which will debut at the Geneva Auto Show next month.

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Ugly Upholstery: Gucci-lined Ford Explorer

Published by Nadeem Muaddi on February 23rd, 2011

While The Hog Ring aims to showcase some of the best custom auto upholstery work out there, we also think it’s fun to highlight the worst. Not just because it’s funny, but also because it can provide a lesson or two on what not to do. Take, for example, this Gucci-lined Ford Explorer that belongs to José of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

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Rising Trend in Auto Upholstery Sales Offers New Opportunities

Published by Nadeem Muaddi on February 21st, 2011

According to a February 2011 trend report published by Izmocars.com, an e-solutions provider for auto dealerships, the number of car buyers interested in customizing their vehicles’ interiors is on the rise.

The report, titled “2010 Auto Accessories Sales,” is based on sales data from 140 dealerships, representing 13 brands and five regions across 30 states. While only dealer sales are accounted for, benefits stemming from the rise in sales may reach further than just dealer lots — as much of the aftermarket customizations offered by dealers are outsourced to local, independent auto trim shops, especially those that specialize in upholstery.

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Auto Trim Seminars & Trade Shows

Published by Nadeem Muaddi on February 17th, 2011

The field of auto upholstery is ever changing – with new innovations, products and business opportunities presented every day. To effectively compete (and hopefully thrive), we need to keep our knowledge and skills up to date. The best way to do so is to attend industry seminars and trade shows – two of which are coming up next month. Even if you believe that your skills are up to par, consider attending for the exhibits, vehicle showcases and networking opportunities.

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Book Review: Automotive Custom Interiors

Published by Naseem Muaddi on February 16th, 2011

If you’re experiencing a case of creativity block, pick up a copy of Sue Elliot’s “Idea Book” titled Automotive Custom Interiors (2009, Motorbooks). It aims to inspire auto upholsterers and fabricators with nearly a thousand detailed photographs of custom interior designs.

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Swiss to Debut Car with Inflatable Upholstery

Published by Nadeem Muaddi on February 15th, 2011

If Swiss design company Rinspeed Inc. has its way, auto trimmers will soon be repairing cigarettes burns with Scotch tape, not a needle and thread. That’s because Frank Rinderknecht, the firm’s founder and CEO, is set to debut his all-new Rinspeed BamBoo electric concept car – which features inflatable upholstery – at next month’s 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

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Naseem Muaddi Steps into The Hog Ring

Published by Nadeem Muaddi on February 15th, 2011

Though The Hog Ring is off to a great start, it’s about to get even better. Naseem Muaddi, owner and operator of Delaware County Auto Upholstery, has signed on to blog for us.

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Fenice Milano to Design Interior of Lamborghini Power Yacht

Published by Nadeem Muaddi on February 14th, 2011

Though Lamborghini has never officially entered the world of powerboat racing, it has produced high-performance marine engines since the late 1980’s. Now a Mauro Lecchi designed Lamborghini power yacht is in the works – and Fenice Milano is taking on the interior.

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