What Kind of Staple Gun Do You Use for Upholstery?

Air Staplers

• Air staplers use an external air compressor to eject staples into fabric and wooden frames. The staplers, also known as pneumatic staplers, are available in a variety of sizes and run on 50 to 100 lbs. of air. Air staplers let you quickly attach fabric to wooden frames without the hassle of having to press a manual staple gun. Air staplers vary in price and can use a variety of staple sizes and types including 1/4-inch to 9/16-inch staples.

Electric Staplers

• You can also use an electric staple gun to complete your upholstering projects, but the guns are not as powerful and fast as air staplers. Electric staplers work similar to manual staple guns, but you don't have to apply pressure to release the staple. The guns use a standard 110-volt extension cord and can also use a variety of staple types and sizes, including 1/4-inch to 9/16-inch staples. Electric staplers are ideal for small upholstery projects.

Cautions

• Like other power tools, wear safety glasses and work gloves to protect yourself when using air and electric staplers. Do not aim the stapler toward your body or any person, and follow all directions and recommendations that come with the stapler. If using an air stapler, connect the air hoses to the stapler correctly as well as any couplers attached to the hoses.

Availability

• Air and electric upholstery staplers are available at hardware, home improvement and equipment rental stores as well as retail superstores. The staplers are also available from online stores and outlets that specialize in upholstery tools and supplies. When buying an air stapler, you must buy the air compressor separately in most cases unless you buy an air stapler and air compressor bundle.