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- 1). Measure both the riser and the tread, including the edge of the stair. Once you have taken the measurement of one, multiply this number by the number of stairs in your staircase. This will give you the total length you need for your runner. Measure the width of the stair tread. Deduct 3 inches from the total width. This will give you a 2-inch border on each side of the stair and allow for a ½-inch seam allowance on each side.
- 2). Mark the dropcloth with the width measurement recorded above. Carefully cut the entire length of the cloth. Compare the length of the cloth to the length measurement of the staircase. Cut an additional width of dropcloth if needed to increase the length.
- 3). Fold and pin ½ inch of the cloth on each side and hem with a sewing machine. If additional length is needed, overlap two pieces of the cloth and sew them together on the reverse side of the cloth, giving a flat surface on the right side of the runner.
- 4). Mark each stair to determine placement of the cloth. Use the square and carefully place a pencil mark on each stair, showing the 2-inch clear space on each side. This will provide you with a guide to use as you install the runner.
- 5). Start at the bottom of the stairs and fold over a 1-inch hem at the end of the runner, making sure that the fold is straight. Staple the fold at the bottom of the riser where it meets the floor. Pull the cloth over the edge of the stair so that it rests on the tread. Using the square, smooth the cloth tightly and staple just under the edge of the stair tread.
Use the square to smooth the cloth over the tread, making sure it stays within the marked guidelines. Staple the cloth at the base of the next riser, as close to the crease as possible. Continue until the entire staircase is completed - 6). Continue stapling the cloth runner on each stair. Once you have reached the top of the stairs, fold over a 1-inch hem at the top of the stair and staple the cloth on the final stair tread.
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