Precision on Every Step: Installing a Custom Curved Stair Runner

Creating a custom-designed stairway runner on a curved staircase is no easy feat. In this particular project, the client envisioned a star pattern over a cascading striated background, hand-tufted in a durable low and tight wool loop. Given that each stair tread is shaped slightly differently, every step had to be crafted individually and assembled on site with the utmost accuracy.

Interior Design: Melville Managemet

The process begins with the creation of highly precise templates for each step. Our experienced mechanic starts from the top of the staircase, working downward, cutting and temporarily stapling a piece of template paper onto each tread. The excess is trimmed away, and compass-measured margins are marked to ensure consistent border widths on both sides. Special attention is given to identifying the exact location of the crotch edge where adjoining carpet pieces will be tucked in seamlessly.

Once the templates are prepared, a second mechanic carefully annotates them with all necessary production notes for the mill, including the step number, finished edges, unbound ends, and any overage allowances to assist with proper installation positioning.

These measurements are then translated into a master plan, with each step illustrated and dimensioned. This plan guides our artist in positioning the star motifs according to the approved sample for design and quality. In this case, the client chose to alternate between three stars and two stars on the risers and noses of every other step for added visual interest.

At the mill, once all sections are tufted, each piece is carefully compared against the original templates laid out on the factory floor to ensure accuracy. Upon installation, the motifs align flawlessly, and every piece fits perfectly into place.

The result is a beautiful and meticulously executed stair runner that delivers both aesthetic impact and functional durability — a testament to the precision and care that define our custom work.