The Hog Ring

Auto Upholstery Community

Naseem Muaddi

10 Questions for Trim Master Dan Kirkpatrick

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With so much attention cast on auto upholstery shops that specialize in custom hot rods, we sometimes forget about those that focus on classic restorations — an integral part of our industry that we at The Hog Ring aim to highlight more of in the near future. Make no mistake about it, the projects these shops take on are just as challenging as custom work — with, of course, … [Read more...] about 10 Questions for Trim Master Dan Kirkpatrick

Shop Profile: Compton Custom Interiors

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One of the greatest pleasures for me in running The Hog Ring is the opportunity to speak with auto trimmers and shop owners from around the world and learn how they got their start in our highly specialized craft. I recently spoke with Jimmy Compton, a retired U.S. Army veteran, who told me all about his new-found career in auto upholstery and his shop, Compton Custom … [Read more...] about Shop Profile: Compton Custom Interiors

Mercedes-Benz SLK: Painting Interior Plastic

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I recently purchased a 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 230 and discovered a major interior defect that owners have been struggling with since the vehicle debuted in 1996. Evidently, Mercedes-Benz used a low-quality paint on the cabin’s interior plastics that scratches easily, leaving SLK owners with an ugly interior unbefitting of a luxury car. Without a doubt, it wasn't something … [Read more...] about Mercedes-Benz SLK: Painting Interior Plastic