How to Make Stairway Carpet Treads

The hard feel of a wood or metal staircase can be unpleasant on shoeless feet. Bare staircases can also be slippery, creating an unnecessary hazard. Stairway carpet treads solve both problems, creating a soft surface and extra traction. Instead of spending money on pre-made stair treads, create your own using a scrap piece of carpet.

Measuring tape
Cardboard
Utility knife
Carpenter's pencil
Sharp carpet razor

Instructions

- 1
  Measure one of the stairs on your stairway to determine the size of each carpet tread. Depending on your preference, the carpet tread can cover the entire surface of the step or just the center, leaving a border visible. Write down the measurement numbers to reference.
- 2
  Create a stair tread template by drawing the planned size onto a piece of cardboard and cutting the form out with a utility knife. Place the template on the steps to test the size appearance. Make any adjustments if necessary.
- 3
  Place the carpet upside down onto a work table and place the carpet tread template on top. Keep the carpet completely flat. Trace around the template with a carpenter's pencil to transfer the carpet tread shape onto the carpet.
- 4
  Cut out the shape of the stairway carpet tread with a sharp carpet razor. Slice the razor deliberately, with hard, but even strokes. Repeat the tracing and cutting process for each step on the stairway.

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