: What length of staples and how many?

I used 1/4" staples. Given the trouble I was having with the gun (Arrow T50), I'm glad I didn't have longer staples. A lot of the staples either completely missed by turning 90* to the wood or only put one leg in with the other crumpled. I used most of a box (Not sure how much that is. It was a standard size box of Arrow staples, though). There was significant waste. Everytime the gun jammed, I lost pretty much what ever was in it. I also ended up pulling and redoing a fair number of staples (I may do more later too). There was a fair probablility that I would hit a screw underneeth also. The staples were pretty useless in those conditions :-) I did have a second box available and would recommend it just in case.

: Did you use canvas pliers?

No. I can see where they might be useful, but I just used hands. They are sore today, both from the pulling and squeezing the S.G. I did get some minor puckering of the fabric on the hull. For some reason it was bad on one side and good on the other. Still it didn't come out too bad. And I haven't wet it out yet to stretch it either.

: Did someone assist you in the stretching and stapling?

Ha! My assistant managed to get an absessed tooth and sprain her ankle on the same day. So, no I was alone. It is doable, but I was panting pretty hard at times even though it was 45* in the barn. If you have someone to help, by all means use them, but don't fret going it alone either.

Bill