Step 1 · Gather Your Tools for Success

First, do a quick count of your individual stair treads. (A fun fact for your project: you'll always have one more riser than you have treads!). Next, let's get your tools ready for a quality result. You'll need a rigid tape measure for accuracy, a carpenter's square to check for right angles, a level to ensure your measurements are true, some masking tape for labeling, and a trusty pencil and notebook.