How to Install a Carpet Runner on Stairs

Materials and Tools:

carpet
staples
hand stapler
stair tool
hammer
utility knife
measuring tape
knee kicker
gloves

Steps:

1. Measure and cut a piece of carpet to the appropriate length. Because it requires specialized sewing equipment and knowledge, have the edges bound by a professional.

2. Mark the location on each step where the runner will rest. Make an inside mark to show where the edges of the padding will extend and an outside mark to show how far the carpet will extend.

3. Cut a piece of padding to fit on each step. Lay each piece in place, and secure it with a hammer stapler.

4. Roll up the carpet, and lay it a few steps above the bottom. Then pull the end toward the bottom. You'll need some slack to work with so that you don't tug too hard on the bottom and cause the entire roll to fall down on you. Keep the roll centered as you work your way up the stairs.

5. Run a row of staples along the bottom of the bottom riser where the carpet meets the floor. Gently wiggle the head of the staple in between the fibers of the carpet to hide the staples. Because the staples are in the corner between the riser and the tread they should stay well hidden.

6. Pull the carpet tight, and run a row of staples along the top of the riser where it meets the tread of the stair.

7. Use the knee kicker to pull the carpet tight as you place another row of staples in the corner between the riser and the tread.

8. Use the stair tool to wedge the carpet into the corner between the tread and the riser.

9. Repeat the process starting at step 5 as you work your way up the stairs. End the process at the corner between the top tread and the last riser to the floor above. After stapling the carpet to the last tread, use a carpet knife to trim any excess carpet.