If you’re tackling your own upholstery project — whether it’s re-covering dining chairs, building an upholstered bedhead, or restoring a tired lounge — a quality staple gun is your most important tool. But with so many options available, how do you know which staple gun is best for your project?
In this guide, we break down the different types of staple guns, what to look for, and which models are trusted by both professionals and DIY upholsterers alike.
Why Staple Guns Matter in Upholstery
A staple gun secures fabric tightly to your frame or foam — and the right one can mean the difference between either complete frustration OR a clean, professional finish. Upholstery-grade staple guns are designed to:
- Fire fine wire staples with precision
- Provide consistent penetration into hardwood or plywood
- Handle repetitive use without hand strain
- Support compatibility with Series 71 or Series 80 upholstery staples (the industry standard)
Types of Staple Guns for Upholstery
1. Manual Staple Guns
Perfect for small projects or occasional use. Manual guns are budget-friendly and portable but require more hand strength.
➡ Great for: dining chairs, headboards, quick fixes
✅ Try: DIY 53 Series Manual Stapler (4–14mm) – a solid entry-level option for hobbyists.
2. Electric Staple Guns
Electric staple guns reduce fatigue and deliver more power for longer sessions. They’re ideal if you’re doing regular DIY upholstery but don’t have an air compressor.
➡ Great for: regular reupholstery, foam cushion work
✅ Try: TUF E80 Electric Staple Gun – popular with DIYers for its reliability and price point.
✅ Or upgrade to: RO-MA ME80 Electric Staple Gun for pro-grade performance.
3. Pneumatic (Air) Staple Guns
Used by professionals and serious DIYers, pneumatic guns offer the highest speed, power, and precision — perfect for tougher frames or thick upholstery fabrics. Requires an air compressor.
➡ Great for: commercial-grade results, large projects
✅ Try:
- BEA 71 Series Staple Gun – compact and precise for fine work
- TUF 80 Series Staple Gun – ideal for general upholstery
- FASCO 80 Series Long Nose Gun – perfect for tight corners and deep crevices
What Staple Gun Series Do I Need?
The most common types for upholstery are:
- 71 Series: Fires fine wire staples (narrow crown), ideal for detailed work and lighter fabrics
- 80 Series: Fires medium wire staples, offering a stronger hold — suitable for most upholstery tasks
- 53 Series: Found in manual guns for entry-level use
📌 Tip: Always check your staple gun’s series before buying staples to ensure compatibility. At Home Upholsterer, we stock a full range of upholstery staples to suit every tool.
DIY Upholstery Projects That Call for a Staple Gun
- Replacing sofa cushion covers
- Reupholstering dining chairs
- Attaching webbing or hessian
- Fitting bedheads
- Recovering ottomans or bar stools
Final Advice: Choosing the Best Upholstery Staple Gun
If you’re just getting started and want value:
🔹 Go with the TUF Manual or Electric models
If you're ready for a pro tool with serious results:
🔹 Choose a BEA, FASCO, or RO-MA pneumatic gun matched to your staple series
If you’re unsure or need help choosing:
🛠️ Visit our Chester Hill Showroom in Sydney or contact our expert team for tailored advice.
Explore Staple Guns Online
Browse our full range of staple & nail guns online. We stock:
- Electric, air-powered & manual staple guns
- BEA, FASCO, TUF & RO-MA tools
- Full range of upholstery staples and accessories
- Fast Australia-wide delivery from our Sydney warehouse
Ready to Start Your Project?
Choosing the right staple gun means better results and less frustration. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or tackling your first reupholstery job, Home Upholsterer has the right tools, fast shipping, and expert advice to back you up.