Creating Custom Templates for Each Step

What happens in this clip

First, use painter's tape to mark the desired outline of the carpet runner on the stair treads, particularly around the quarter round and edges. Then, unroll the brown paper over the first tread and secure it temporarily with painter's tape. Use a pencil or marker to meticulously trace the exact shape of the stair tread onto the paper. Once traced, cut out the paper template with scissors or a utility knife. Repeat this process for all six pie-shaped steps, carefully numbering each template to maintain order. Secure the templates in place with a hammer stapler to prevent movement while tracing and cutting. Remember to account for the orientation of each step when numbering and preparing the templates, as they will be flipped for cutting the carpet.

Goal: Produce accurate paper templates for all winding stair treads

What's used

Tools

• Hammer Stapler
• Painter's Tape Painter's Touch
• Paper Roll
• Pencil
• Scissors

About the full video

This project details the installation of a custom carpet runner on a challenging 180-degree winding staircase. The process involves creating precise paper templates for each unique 'pie-shaped' tread, cutting and sewing the carpet pieces according to these templates, and then carefully installing them with padding and stapling for a tight, professional finish.

Step 2 of 8: Create a Template for Each Tread

For each stair tread, create a paper or cardboard template that mirrors its exact dimensions, including any curves and angles. This can be done by carefully tracing the shape of the tread onto the template material. For curved treads, it is essential to mark the different depths along the curve as well. These templates will serve as guides for cutting the carpet treads.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Carpet Stair Treads on Curved Stairs

1. Step 1: Measure Tread Dimensions

   • 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
   • 0:12–0:57 Measure and Cut Carpet Tread
   • 0:29–1:33 Prepare Stairs and Measure Grippers

2. Step 2: Create a Template for Each Tread

   • 1:15–3:04 Create Template for First Winder Step
   • 0:59–1:36 Creating Custom Templates for Each Step (this video)
   • 4:33–5:37 Create Template for Second Winder Step

3. Step 3: Cut Carpet Treads from Templates

   • 8:08–9:23 Cut Carpet Pieces
   • 6:52–8:08 Transfer Templates to Carpet Backing
   • 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces

4. Step 4: Prepare Stair Surface

   • 0:34–0:40 Clean the Stairs
   • 0:17–0:34 Prepare the Stairs
   • 0:00–0:05 Prepare Stairs and Treads

5. Step 5: Apply Adhesive

   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
   • 0:04–0:08 Apply Spray Adhesive
   • 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs

6. Step 6: Attach Carpet Tread to Stair

   • 0:11–0:43 Install Remaining Carpet Stair Treads
   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 1:16–2:09 Install Carpet Treads with Adhesive

7. Step 7: Secure Edges and Trim

   • 3:53–7:38 Trim Excess Carpet and Prepare Final Riser
   • 2:25–3:45 Position and Secure Carpet Edges
   • 2:42–3:56 Secure the First Section with Staples

8. Step 8: Inspect and Clean Up

   • 3:59–4:29 Final Trimming and Inspection
   • 16:47–18:07 Final Review and Cleanup
   • 0:46–0:57 Final Inspection and Cleanup