Hog Ring Staplers in Upholstery: A Pro’s Guide


A female upholsterer uses a yellow staple gun to apply colorful fabric to the furniture in a workshop.

If you’ve ever wondered how pros achieve that smooth finish on furniture upholstery, chances are they’re using a hog ring stapler. This tool has been a game-changer in the upholstery world for decades. It’s fast, reliable, and gives you results that look clean and professional every time.

But what exactly is the use of a hog ring stapler in upholstery, and why do so many professionals swear by it? Our guide breaks it down.

What Is a Hog Ring Stapler?

A hog ring stapler is a hand tool (or pneumatic tool) that fastens fabric, foam, or other materials to a frame using metal rings instead of traditional staples. These rings, called hog rings, are C-shaped or D-shaped fasteners that clamp around materials and hold them securely in place.

What makes this tool stand out is how it grips material without tearing it. Unlike standard staples, hog rings distribute pressure more evenly. That means less damage to your fabric and a longer-lasting hold. Plus, they’re much easier to remove if you ever need to reupholster down the line.

Why Upholsterers Love Hog Ring Staplers

There’s a reason this tool has stuck around for so long. First off, the rings themselves are incredibly durable. Hog rings create a strong connection between fabric and frame that won’t loosen over time. You won’t have to worry about sagging or fabric pulling away after a few months. Using a stapler delivers these secure results every time.

Another big plus? Speed. Once you get the hang of it, you can move through a project much faster than with traditional staples or tacks. That’s a huge advantage if you’re working on multiple pieces or running a professional shop.

Manual vs. Pneumatic: Which One Should You Use?

You’ve got two main options for hog ring staplers: manual and pneumatic. Manual staplers are budget-friendly and great for smaller projects or hobbyists. They don’t need an air compressor, so you can use them anywhere. The downside? They require more hand strength and can slow you down on bigger jobs.

Pneumatic hog ring staplers, on the other hand, are powered by compressed air. They’re faster, easier on your hands, and perfect for high-volume work. Professional upholsterers tend to prefer these because they can handle long days of repetitive fastening without causing fatigue.

Wrapping Up: A Tool Worth Mastering

Whether you’re restoring a vintage chair or building custom cushions, using hog ring staplers in upholstery delivers professional results every time. It’s a tough, versatile, and trusted tool by upholstery pros around the world. Once you get comfortable with it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without one!

For a reliable hog ring fastening tool that professionals trust, explore Salco’s wide range of upholstery solutions. With a long-standing commitment to customer satisfaction, our tools are designed to provide the durability and precision your projects demand. Visit our website to find the perfect tool partner today!