How to Replace Staples in a Staple Gun: A Step-by-Step Guide
As a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, you may encounter situations where you need to replace staples in your staple gun. Whether you’re running low on staples or need a specific type of staple, knowing how to replace staples in your staple gun can save you time and improve your work efficiency. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to replace staples in a staple gun.
What You’ll Need
Before we begin, make sure you have the following items:
• Staple Gun: The type of staple gun you are using might affect the process of replacement. Familiarize yourself with your staple gun’s design and functionality.
• New Staples: Determine the type of staple that your staple gun requires.
• Flathead Screwdriver: A flathead screwdriver will be handy for removing any screws that hold the staple magazine or the staple strip in place.
• Tissue Paper or Cardboard: Having some tissue paper or cardboard handy will help cushion the new staples and make the replacement process smoother.
• Gloves: Optional, but recommend wearing gloves to protect your hands from staple pricking or sharp edges.
Contents
Removing the Empty Staple Strip
Before replacing staples, you need to remove the empty staple strip. Follow these steps:
- Locate the staple strip cover or magazine: This can usually be found on top or side of the staple gun.
- Pinch and Twist: Grip the staple strip cover gently and twist it counterclockwise to loosen its hold on the staple magazine.
- Pull the empty staple strip: Once loosened, gently pull out the empty staple strip away from the staple gun. You may need to wobble it slightly to break the seal.
- Disengage the staple strip hook: If your staple strip has a hook or attachment point, make sure it’s disengaged or released from the staple magazine.
Prepare the New Staple Strip
Here’s how to prepare your new staple strip:
• Unwind the staples: Carefully unwind the new staple strip, laying the staples flat on your work surface. This step is crucial to prevent misaligned staples from causing uneven staple placement.
• Align the staples: Begin to align the staples evenly, making sure they don’t overlap or touch one another. Keep track of the staple orientation to ensure proper loading. For most staple guns, the staples should be orientated with the pointed edge facing the gun.
• Cut the staple strip: Cut the staple strip to the recommended length (usually specified in your staple gun’s manual). Leave about ¼ inch of excess staple to account for misalignment.
• Tape or Pin the End: Close the end of the new staple strip using tape (duct tape, masking tape, or packing tape will work) or a single staple to prevent staples from falling out. This temporary fix will ensure the rest of the staples stay organized during the loading process.
• Add a Piece of Tissue Paper: Place a piece of tissue paper or cardboard on your work surface. This acts as a buffer to keep the staples in place when you load the staple magazine.
Loading the New Staple Strip into the Staple Gun
Now, it’s time to load the new staple strip into the staple gun:
• Hold the staple magazine: Lift the staple magazine, removing any staples or debris using your flathead screwdriver.
• Place the prepared staple strip: Carefully slide the prepared staple strip into the staple magazine. Make sure the aligned staples are entering the staple gun in the correct order.
• Secure the staple strip: Use a small amount of force, while twisting the staple magazine counterclockwise (opposite the standard direction), to hold the staple strip in place.
• Remove the backing**: Remove the tape, pin, or staple strip cover to reveal the freely accessible staples.
• Wipe Clean: Use your flathead screwdriver or a cloth to wipe down the staple magazine and its surrounding area, removing any debris or staple fragments left behind.
In-Use Checks and Cleaning**
To ensure optimal stapling performance, perform a quick check:
• Make sure the staple strip cover or magazine is securely seated and not loose.
• Verify the staples are accurately aligned and free from bunching or kinking.
For added reliability and **staple gun cleanliness**, consider:
• Keeping your staple gun clean
• Regularly cleaning debris from the staple magazine
**Conclusion**
Replacing staples in your staple gun might seem daunting at first, but with the step-by-step guide above, it should be a breeze! By following the instructions attentively, you’ll prevent staple jams, ensure the staples are loaded correctly, and maintain a smooth flow of work.
**Takeaways:**
• Carefully remove the empty staple strip
• Prepare and align the new staple strip
• Load the stapler magazine and secure it properly
• Perform checks and cleaning in-use
