When your furniture starts to look tired, and the padding feels less generous, maybe it’s time to roll up your sleeves and reupholster your antique chairs and couch. While it might be better to seek the services of a professional, others will want to tackle the job themselves.
So, what are the best upholstery staple guns to get the job done? We bring you our top 5 to get you started.
- Has 1-inch nose extension
- 22-gauge crown staples
- Lightweight & compact
- Multi-use 4-in-1 tool
- Takes D, T, U-type fasteners
- Comes with 4,000 spare staples
- Fires 30 staples per minute
- Has a trigger lock
- Takes 16,18, 20-gauge staples
- Carbon steel construction
- Loads T, U, D-style fasteners
- Rubberized soft grip handle
- Refined firing mechanismn
- Fires 6 fastener size
- Has anti-dry fire mechanism
The Best Upholstery Staple Guns of 2024
So, now it’s time to find out which staple gun is the ideal choice for you. We have narrowed down the selection to the best 5 staple guns.
Porter-Cable Pneumatic Upholstery Stapler
Best Pneumatic Staple Gun for Upholstery
This pneumatic staple gun uses 22-gauge crown staples from 0.25 inches to 0.625 inches long, and thanks to its compact dimensions, it is lightweight and easy to control. It is the ideal tool for reaching tight spots because it has a 1-inch nose extension.
It has a steel top cap for durability and the rear exhaust port channels away moisture and tool oil. You also get a high-capacity, bottom-loading magazine that handles 185 staples, as well as a driver-guide that moves back to clear blockages and jams.
The only downside to this stapler is that it requires an air compressor, which adds to the tool’s expense and increases the noise factor. Repairing furniture with this tool will be a loud affair, so you might want to do it away from your home to avoid annoying the neighbors.
What We Like
Increased Power
Pneumatic staple guns are the king of the jungle when it comes to power. If you have a chair or sofa with a hardwood frame, this is the tool to use for the cleanest fastener penetration.
22-Gauge Staples
When you are looking for the most refined finish, the size of the staples you use is crucial. 22-gauge fasteners are the most common in upholstery because they leave the least damage to the wooden structure while successfully securing material and padding.
Lightweight and Compact
Air tools are lighter than electric varieties because they contain fewer working parts and no motor, thanks to the air compressor. It means you can use them for longer without the fear of hand and wrist fatigue.
What We Don't Like
Needs Compressed Air
This staple gun has no onboard motor. Instead, it gets its power from an air compressor. This means you have the cost of the tool as well as the air compressor to take into consideration. It increases your spending enormously.
How Loud?
You cannot avoid the fact that pneumatic staplers are noisy. It might restrict you because air compressors generate about 85 decibels, which might annoy the neighbors.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 1.75 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 14 x 10.5 x 3.25 |
| PSI | 70 to 120 |
| Gauge | 22 |
| Power source | Compressed air |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Our Ratings
YEAHOME 4-in-1 Staple Gun
Best Budget Upholstery Staple Gun
This YEAHOME staple gun is so cheap. You could buy more than 5 of them for the same price as the Porter-Cable pneumatic model. But is it any good?
First, it’s a manual staple gun, so it will be slower than powered versions, and it does require elbow grease to operate it, but it is a 4-in-1 tool, which increases your versatility.
It takes D, T, and U-type fasteners, as well as pin Brad nails, so when you have finished reupholstering your armchair, you can turn your hand to any number of repair and DIY jobs around the home.
It has an adjustable pressure knob, so you can choose the depth you want your staples and an easy-load magazine for the simplest fastener swap.
What We Like
Multi-Use Tool
This stapler is versatile because it is a 4-in-1 tool. You can shoot T, D, U-type, and pin Brad nails. So when you have finished upholstering, you can mend inside and outside trim.
Super-Cheap
If you are on the lookout for an affordable staple gun, this one is pretty hard to beat. It costs a fraction of the price of other models, making it the ideal occasional and first-time staple gun.
Accessories
Not only is this a cheap tool, but it also comes with 4,000 spare staples to get you started straight out of the box.
What We Don't Like
Manual Tool
Manual staple guns slow you down. This may not be a deal-breaker, but if you are looking for a speedy outcome, this is the slowest and most labor-intensive option.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 2.44 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 8.1 x 6.9 x 1.65 |
| Gauge | 18 |
| Power source | Manual |
| Price | $ |
| Warranty | 180-day money-back guarantee |
Our Ratings
KeLDE Electric Staple Gun Kit
Best Electric Upholstery Staple Guns
This KeLDE staple gun could so easily have been our budget pick, thanks to the fantastic price. It comes with a trigger lock to ensure it stores away safely, and is safe while plugged in. It also fires 30 staples per minute, and each fastener and Brad nail magazine hold 50 pieces.
It takes 16,18 and 20-gauge staples, as well as 18-gauge Brad nails, making this KeLDE an extremely versatile tool for upholstery and a host of other general DIY tasks.
So, to recap, this staple gun is affordable, easy to use, lightweight and versatile. No matter what upholstery task you have ahead, this gun can handle it.
What We Like
Multi-Use Tool
Thanks to its 16, 18, and 20-gauge capacity, this KeLDE staple gun can tackle most fastening tasks with ease. And when you want to swap to interior and exterior trim, it can handle that too.
Super-Affordable
This model is not expensive. It costs a fraction of some to make the list, and if you are a beginner or occasional user, this gun is great value for money.
Accessories
Given the low price, it is surprising that you also get 3 packs of various gauge staples and a pack of Brad nails so that you can get started straight out of the box.
What We Don't Like
Lacks Power
While it is a multi-function stapler, the general consensus is it is not a heavy-duty tool. It can tackle most DIY tasks, like framing, fitting insulation boards, and upholstery but you might struggle with anything more demanding.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 1.95 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 9.76 x 7.17 x 1.81 |
| Gauge | 16, 18, 20 |
| Power source | Electric |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
REXBETI Staple Gun
Best Manual Staple Gun for Upholstery
This is a heavy-duty manual staple gun, so it is the ideal tool for most fastening tasks, but this gun is perfect when it comes to upholstery. It has a strength adjustment bolt to cater to different surfaces and materials, and the rubberized soft grip handle reduces hand and wrist fatigue.
The carbon steel construction ensures longevity, while safety is taken care of by the lockable handle. It loads T, U and D-style fasteners with a bottom-loading magazine for convenience.
What We Like
Carbon Steel Construction
Unlike other examples, this manual stapler is constructed from durable carbon steel to ensure a long working life. It should keep going for years to come.
3-in-1 Tool
Thanks to its versatility, you can load D, U, and T-style fasteners as well as Brad nails. It keeps you working on many tasks and allows you to scale up or down your upholstery jobs.
Go-Anywhere
The beauty of a manual staple gun is you are free to work in any location without the need of a power supply. It means you can reupholster your garden furniture without dragging it into the garage near a power socket.
What We Don't Like
Requires Brute Strength
Manual staple guns are great for working anywhere, but the downside is you need brute strength to operate them. This might lead to hand and wrist fatigue and restrict you to smaller tasks.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 3.65 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 12.8 x 11.46 x 2.05 |
| Gauge | 16, 18, 20 |
| Power source | Manual |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | Not stated |
Our Ratings
Makita XTP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Staple Gun
Best Cordless Upholstery Staple Gun
This Makita cordless staple gun has a refined firing mechanism, which reduces recoil and the force required to drive the staples. It gets its power from an 18V lithium-ion battery (sold separately), and it fires 6 different sizes of fasteners, including a 23-gauge version, making it ideal for upholstery.
You also get a tool-less depth adjustment to cater to different surfaces and tasks. Each magazine holds 120 fasteners, and it has an anti-dry fire mechanism to prevent firing blanks, which could damage the surface of your project.
The handle is ergonomically designed, you get an LED for a better view, and the rubber bumpers protect your tool and the material’s surface.
What We Like
Advanced Protection
From anti-dry fire mechanisms to rubber bumpers and reduced recoil, this Makita is packed with the latest innovations to keep you safe and improve results.
Cordless Freedom
Cordless staple and nail guns are the ultimate work-anywhere tools. They give you all the power of plugin models with none of the inconvenience. It’s a win-win.
Quality Brand
Some brands command respect, and Makita is one of them. They are renowned the world over for quality and performance, and this tool is no exception.
What We Don't Like
Tool Only
Considering the price of this gun, you would think the battery is included, but unfortunately, it is sold separately. That means you need to up your budget to get the charger and battery if you want to get started with this tool.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 4.49 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 3.39 x 11.42 x 9.21 |
| Gauge | 18, 20, 23 |
| Power source | 18V lithium-ion battery |
| Price | $$$$$ |
| Warranty | 3-year limited |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Gauge | Power source | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porter-Cable Upholstery Stapler | Pneumatic | 2 lbs | 14 x 10.5 x 3.25″ | 22 | Compressed air | 1-year limited |
| YEAHOME 4-in-1 Staple Gun | Budget Pick | 2.44 lbs | 8.1 x 6.9 x 1.65″ | 18 | Manual | 180-day money-back guarantee |
| KeLDE Electric Staple Gun Kit | Electric | 2 lbs | 9.76 x 7.17 x 1.81″ | 16, 18, 20 | Electric | 1-year |
| REXBETI Staple Gun | Manual | 3.65 lbs | 12.8 x 11.46 x 2.05″ | 16, 18, 20 | Manual | Not stated |
| Makita LXT Lithium-Ion Staple Gun | Cordless | 4.49 lbs | 3.39 x 11.42 x 9.21″ | 18, 20, 23 | 18V lithium-ion battery | 3-year limited |
Types of Staple Guns for Upholstery
Essentially, you can buy 3 types of staple guns to help you complete your upholstery project. So, what are they?
Manual
These are the most common staplers and the easiest to use. Manual staple guns don’t need a power source, so you can use them anywhere.
Manual versions are less convenient than the other types, but they are a firm favorite with hobbyists and crafters, as well as for general use.
As the name suggests, all it takes is a bit of elbow grease. Just squeeze the handle to provide downward pressure, which releases the staple. Nothing could be more straightforward. They are easy to master and quick to load.
The second plus is the price. Compared to more expensive, powered models, you can pick up a decent manual staple gun for a small amount of money. Plus, manual models are compact and light, making them easy to store away.
The downside with manual staple guns is the added stress it places on your hands and wrists. If you are undertaking a substantial upholstery project, it might be better to consider a powered staple gun.
Electric
The advantage of an electric staple gun is they are lightweight and easy to load. They also require zero effort to operate effectively. This increases your work rate and decreases the pressure on your hands and wrists.
Electric staple guns are a common sight, especially in workshops and hobby rooms across the country. Simply load the staples, plug it in, press the nose of the gun on the surface of your project, pull the trigger and a fastener gets released.
The obvious downside is you need an electrical supply to operate them. They are also more costly than manual versions. Plus, because this staple gun discharges so easily, the chances of an injury increase, so take care when using it.
Pneumatic
Pneumatic staple guns are also lightweight, and they are the most powerful of all the varieties. Air-powered models are easy to use and comfortable to hold, making them the best versions for longer projects.
Pneumatic guns are adjustable, so you can vary the power to accommodate different materials. You can also choose different types of fasteners.
The disadvantage is that this type of tool is more expensive, and then you need an air compressor, which increases the costs. Plus, dragging around an air compressor is inconvenient.
Another downside is the noise these tools make. You will need earplugs when operating most air compressors, and if you work from home, the neighbors might not like the interruptions.
How To Choose the Best Size Staple Gun for Upholstery
What are the key things you should be looking for when selecting your shiny new staple gun? It’s time to give you some pointers.
Size of the Project
It doesn’t matter whether you are tackling one or 21 jobs; all that counts is the size of each project. If you plan to take on a renovation project, consider getting a top of the range model. If you just want to add extra padding to a dining chair, maybe a cheaper model will suffice.
Try and avoid the cheapest staple guns because it could prove to be a false economy.
Safety Features
Okay, so we get that staple guns and nail guns are different, but they operate in the same way, and the risks of injury are just as significant. So, look for locking handles and safety switches that prevent accidental firing.
You should also be aware of children when using a staple gun. In the wrong hands, it can quickly lead to disaster.
Power Source
Think about how you intend to use the staple gun. If you predominantly work outdoors, consider a cordless model. It frees you from the shackles of a power supply and allows you to work from anywhere.
Consider an electric model for substantial projects so you can work faster and longer, with minimal impact on your hands and wrists.
For occasional users, a manual version would be the best bet. They are cheap and effective but remember you will work at a slower rate.
Budget
The more you spend, the better the staple gun, or that’s the theory at least. It all comes down to what you can afford. If you have the means, get the best model that you can, but if your budget is tight, get the best value you can for your money.
Look at the components and how many plastic elements there are because the cheaper materials are less robust and will fail a lot quicker than metal parts.
Comfort and Ease of Use
Most staple guns come with ergonomic handles with rubber overmolds for better comfort and grip. The stapler should be balanced and easy to control. All of these elements increase usability while reducing hand and wrist fatigue.
They should also have an easy-load staple magazine so that you spend less time fiddling with the staple gun to change the magazine, and more time working.
What Is the Best Size Staple for Upholstery?
Unlike construction work and heavy-duty tasks, an upholstery stapler should be a bit more refined, which is why you frequently find they accommodate smaller gauge staples. Typically, staple gauges range from 16, 18, and 20, whereas an upholstery staple is often 22 gauge.
Smaller fasteners cause less damage to the wooden frames of your favorite chair, reducing cracks and splits. They are also more discreet, making it easier to hide them in fabric folds and edging material.
Staple Guns for Upholstery FAQs
Can You Use a Light Duty Staple Gun for Upholstery?
Light-duty staple guns aren’t famous for handling thick upholstery projects, so they might not be the best choice. Since upholstery projects can be very versatile, you need a staple gun that can handle materials of various densities and thickness levels.
Because they use thinner staples with small crowns, they won’t be able to hold the fabric secured to the base material for too long. For upholstery, investing in a heavy-duty staple gun that can handle various types of fabrics is best.
Are Electric Staple Guns Any Good for Upholstery?
Electric staple guns are awesome if you’re doing upholstery because they’re powerful and easy to work with. If you have a project with thick upholstery, an electric staple gun will make your job easier.
Not every electric staple gun works on all upholstery projects, though, so there are a few extra things to remember. Always use the correct staple type and size to keep the fabric in place. Choose an electric stapler that’s labeled as being suitable for upholstery.
How Do You Hide Staples on Upholstery?
Professionals use a few different methods when they want to hide upholstery staples.
The fold-and-tuck method is the easiest for you to employ. You must fold the fabric’s raw edges and tuck them beneath the previous staple line.
You can also use the blind stitch method. You need a needle and a thread to secure the fabric that hides the staples underneath.
Another easy method is to use decorative fabric trim. You can hide staples by gluing flat pieces of attractive fabric trim over the stapled regions. Upholstery tacks are an alternative to staples if you’re concerned about any exposed staples in the fabric that still need to be connected.
When used on a wooden frame, these tacks have the same effect as staples. This final piece of fabric is folded to form a smooth edge and then secured with decorative upholstery tacks, concealing the underlying staples from earlier pieces of cloth.
What Is the Difference Between a Tacker and a Staple Gun?
The biggest difference between a tacker and a staple gun is the type of staples they shoot and what they’re good for.
You can use a tacker for fast stapling and attaching thin materials. Tacks also differ from staples, which look like short and thin nails.
Staple guns are better for more difficult projects. They are best when you want to build furniture or attach heavy-duty upholstery.
They are larger and more powerful. As opposed to tacks, staples have a U shape and two legs penetrating the material. Their crown helps secure the material.
What Kind of Staple Gun Is Best for Upholstery?
For upholstery, it’s best to use an electric or a pneumatic staple gun instead of a manual one. Pneumatic staples guns are optimal because they are the most powerful variety and can handle any upholstery project, even the more demanding ones.
If you have a thick piece of upholstery and are looking to secure it to hardwood, it won’t be easy with a light-duty gun.
However, note that pneumatic staple guns require an air compressor to function. If you don’t already own an air compressor, you have to spend more money using the pneumatic stapler.
Show Your Furniture Some Love
Nothing stays as new. Everything ages, sags, and discolors over time, and your favorite armchair is no different. Rather than throwing it in the trash and buying something new, get a staple gun, and get creative.
It might be easier than you think to revamp the material and refill the cushions, and the bonus is you get the satisfaction of doing the work yourself.
