Buzz
Staplers offer an efficient method for securing sheets of paper together. While manual desktop staplers are commonly used in office settings, electric and heavy-duty variants are also available. Although heavy-duty staplers and manual desktop staplers function similarly, heavy-duty models are typically larger and may feature a front handle. Additionally, manual and desktop staplers can be utilized to affix paper to a wall.
Instructions
Preparing Your Stapler and Paper
Open the stapler. Most staplers are loaded from the top. To open such staplers, grip the base firmly and pull the top section upwards until the staple tray is revealed. Back-loading staplers typically feature a button on the back; to open these, press the button until the stapler tray partially pops out, then pull it fully outward.
- Electric staplers also include a release button on the back.
- Ensure the base remains stable while opening the stapler.
- Although some models may vary, staplers can generally be opened by pulling or pushing a back button.
Prepare the stapler for loading. Insert the recommended staples, ensuring the pointed ends are placed into the staple tray first. To secure top load staplers, press down on the top until it clicks into position. For back load staplers, push the stapler tray to close it.
Collect up to 20 sheets of paper. This is the typical capacity for most manual desktop and electric staplers, whereas heavy-duty staplers can handle 100 sheets or more. Ensure all your papers are facing the same direction and are arranged in the desired order for binding.
Binding Paper
Position the upper left corner of the paper stack into the stapler's mouth. The staple will eject from the gap at the end of the stapler tray, so align the section you wish to staple beneath it.
- If using an electronic stapler, the staple will be dispensed immediately upon activation.
- If the electronic stapler fails to dispense the staple immediately, adjust your papers further back and ensure the stapler is plugged in.
- An audible 'click' indicates the papers have been successfully bound with electronic staplers.
Apply firm and swift pressure to the top of the stapler. Release the top of the stapler after pressing down, and your papers will be securely bound.
Verify that the staple has securely fastened the papers. If the staple is not in the intended location, loose, or bent, you can extract the staple, pry open its legs, remove it, and attempt stapling again.
Resolve stapler jams, if necessary. Staplers may jam when attempting to staple too many papers or if a staple bends unexpectedly. Open the stapler and use tweezers, pliers, or a similar tool to remove any jammed staples. Remember to unplug electronic staplers before addressing jams.
Utilizing the Stapler for Tacking
Prepare the stapler for tacking. Firmly grip the base of the stapler with one hand and pull back the top section where the staple tray is located. Some stapler models feature a silver tab at the bottom rear; press it to automatically release the stapler for tacking purposes.
- Allow the base to hang while using the stapler for tacking.
- Do not use electronic staplers for tacking.
Position the paper you wish to tack. Enlist the assistance of a friend if needed, as tacking a crooked piece of paper to the wall requires two hands. If no help is available, secure the paper with tape while stapling to prevent misalignment.
Press down firmly on the stapler ejection gap over the desired area of the paper for tacking. You'll hear the staple penetrate the wall. Repeat this tacking process as needed. If the tacking feature isn't functioning, avoid forcing it. Your walls may be too thick for staples, necessitating the use of screws or hooks instead.
Recommendations
Cautions
- Avoid stapling body parts.
- Do not attempt to staple heavy-duty materials like cardboard.
- Keep fingers clear of the staple ejection gap to prevent injury. Stapling your fingers can be painful, so keep them and other extremities away from where the staples emerge.
Essentials
- A manual desktop, electric, or heavy-duty stapler
- The papers you wish to bind
- Extra staples
