How to Hold a Stair Runner Over Carpet

Measure and mark the location of the stair runner on each step using a ruler and painter’s tape. This will ensure that the runner is centered on each step.

Cut carpet padding for each step. The carpet padding should be at least one inch narrower than the stair carpet runner. Each piece of padding should reach from the edge of the back of the step, over the nose edge of each step, and should reach down to the middle of the stair rise. This will make the final product look more professional and comfortable.

Attach the carpet padding to the step with double-sided carpet tape using the painter’s tape as a guide. Place the tape in between the carpet platform and the padding.

Fold the end of the stair runner under itself and secure it to the top step with an upholstery tack. Place a tack on each side of the stair runner. Fold the runner under the stair nose and staple it under the nose ledge with small upholstery staples.

Place double-sided tape along the front and back edge of each step. This will allow you to get a clean line without showing staples.

Pull off the double-sided tape backing. Tightly pull the stair runner down to the stairs and press it directly onto the tape backing. Secure the runner onto the stair platform with one upholstery tack on each side of the bottom of the stair platform.

Repeat the process with the rest of the steps working from the top of the stairs toward the bottom. On the last step, cut the runner ½ inch longer than needed, fold the excess under the tape, and tack it to the bottom of the platform.