Cut Carpet to Size

What happens in this clip

Unroll the carpet onto a flat surface to prepare for cutting. Measure the width of your staircase accurately. The video suggests cutting the carpet 'half an inch wider than my staircase' to allow for tucking and a snug fit. Use a marker and a long, straight edge (like a large ruler or T-square) to draw a straight line along the carpet's backing. Carefully cut along this line using a sharp utility knife, ensuring a clean and precise cut. For long cuts, it might be helpful to use weights, such as dumbbells, to hold the carpet and straight edge in place.

Goal: Precisely cut the carpet roll to fit the staircase width

What's used

Tools

• Carpet Roll
• Dumbbells (or other weights)
• C-clamps
• Marker
• Straight Edge (Ruler/T-Square) Empire
• Level
• Utility Knife

About the full video

This DIY project demonstrates how to install carpet on stairs from start to finish. It covers preparing the stairs by installing tack strips and padding, precisely cutting the carpet, and then securing it to each step using basic tools, notably without a specialized carpet knee kicker.

Step 3 of 6: Cut Carpet Treads

Lay the carpet tread material flat on a protected surface. Using a sharp utility knife or heavy-duty scissors, carefully cut along the marked lines. Make sure to cut cleanly and precisely to achieve edges that will fit snugly against the porch step and adjacent treads.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Carpet Treads on Covered Porch Steps

1. Step 1: Clean Porch Steps

   • 0:34–0:40 Clean the Stairs
   • 0:04–0:07 Clean the Staircase
   • 0:36–0:41 Clean and Smooth Stairs

2. Step 2: Measure and Mark Carpet Treads

   • 7:20–9:07 Measure and Cut Carpet
   • 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces
   • 0:46–1:05 Measure and Cut Underlayment

3. Step 3: Cut Carpet Treads

   • 8:08–9:23 Cut Carpet Pieces
   • 1:33–1:54 Cut Carpet to Size (this video)
   • 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces

4. Step 4: Apply Adhesive to Steps

   • 0:09–0:25 Apply Flooring Adhesive
   • 0:05–0:08 Apply Spray Adhesive
   • 0:21–0:28 Apply Adhesive to Stair Tread

5. Step 5: Position and Press Carpet Treads

   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 0:21–0:26 Press Down Firmly
   • 0:06–0:14 Install Carpet Treads

6. Step 6: Secure Edges (Optional)

   • 0:02–0:06 Apply Anti-Slip Strip
   • 7:23–7:44 Secure Step Treads with Adhesive