I have repaired a few bass hoops and inserts. Sometimes removing the staples can be painstaking. I have actually,removed some staples and glued the inserts down and were able to replace the staples. I have had excellent results using the regular Elmers white glue like we used in school. I spread a line of glue all around the middle of the hoop trench and use little spring clamps about three inches apart to secure the wrap inserts. Then wipe the excess glue with a damp cloth. That glue dries clear. Staples optional. Some inserts I didn't even need to staple. I have painted some hoops without removing the inserts if they were fine and stapled. I just cover the strips with masking tape and run a exacto knife down each side of the insert and remove the tape on each side, then you can paint the hoops. Done that a few times. I would just sand the hoop enough to get the flaky paint off then paint. Always came out great.

Thanks much, Mr. Vibes! I got some Elmer's and some plastic spring-loaded clamps at Ace Hardware, and - uncharacteristically (!), I'm taking my time and doing a section at a time...rather than hurrying!

I was able to pull the staples with pliers and rub off (with my fingers) what-appears-to-be rubber cement, which was used to secure the inlay after the hoops were repainted. No wonder, it lifted. And the inlay wasn't pulled tight enough....

Anyhow, so far, so good! An easy, fun project! And I won't need to make any additional trips to the hardware store!

Thanks! MB

Great! Hope it works for you. Show us some pics.