How to Cut Drywall Around Stairs

Locate the first joist where the outer edge of the first sheet of drywall will sit above the bottom of the stairs. Locate the joist where the outer edge of the last sheet of drywall will sit at the top of the stairs.

Measure down the center of the stud, from the ceiling to the bottom of the stairs. Measure down the sheet of drywall and make a corresponding mark.

Measure the distance from the center of the joists to the first stair riser. Measure across the drywall and make a corresponding mark.

Measure the distance from the ceiling to the tread of the next stair and make a corresponding mark on the sheet of drywall. Continue measuring and marking the steps until the stair heights and tread depths are marked out across a 4-foot expanse of drywall.

Draw the shape of the stairs onto the drywall. Place a square to intersect the riser and tread marks of the first stair at a 90-degree angle. Trace the edge of the square. Continue tracing each step in the same manner.

Cut along the lines with a drywall saw, a keyhole saw or an electric drywall router.

Install the sheet of drywall over the stairs. Continue measuring, cutting and installing sheets of drywall above the stairs in the same manner until reaching the top of the stairs.