Flipping through Veranda magazine the other day, I came upon this image by sister design team, Kirsten Kelli. The Keith Haring artwork here, immediately took me back to the mid-eighties, and more significantly, a prized swatch watch that I had proudly worn then. Beyond bummed that I literally have no idea what happened to this watch, as I would love to see it again. A fervent online search revealed only this version, mine was bright red, but this is pretty close. Like a Proustian Madeleine, I was instantly transported back to this decade, which now in hindsight seems like one giant John Hughes film. Do any design elements ever make you feel nostalgic?
Painted stairs, a fun project I’m excited to share here today.
If you’ve ever contemplated zhushing up your stair treads with a fresh coat of paint, today’s post is for you!
Our Painted Stairs Reveal
This is our back staircase.
The first time I wrote about this was way back in March, 2010, I did a post about the “before” stairs along with various painted staircase ideas.
Checking out different ideas online is always the first thing I do with any of my diy projects.
Since these steps only lead to the home gym on the second floor over our garage, I thought adding a paint color here would be a great way to do something a little out of the ordinary.
It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do…
I looked at a lot of different inspirational images, and eventually chose a hybrid.
It took me forever to get this project accomplished, and it’s still technically not done.
Our interior designer Lauren, helped me to narrow down my ideas a little bit, pick some paint colors and find a skilled painter familiar with the specialist floor paint needed here.
Using the right paint is key here and the best way to approach a project like this.
As you can see here, this particular staircase is a bit unique in that there are no newel posts.
So, I sourced the banister stair rails by using window hardware from Restoration Hardware and the rope is from my local hardware store.
However, now that I’ve seen the finished project, the only thing I would change is to get some sturdier rope, probably from home depot.
What do you think of our painted stair runner, would you try this idea?
I’m pretty happy with the way it looks, it’s so fun and eye catching!
If you’re going to try this idea – be sure to fill in any gaps or small holes with wood filler first to achieve the most seamless look.
In fact, I asked our painter if he could give a me a step by step guide for painted stairs, here’s what he had to say.
Materials and Tools:
TOP TIP –:Choose a high-quality paint that is durable and suitable for stairs. Consider using floor or patio paint for added durability.
Primer: If your stairs are bare wood or have a dark color, use a primer to ensure better paint adhesion.
Sandpaper: Sand the stairs to create a smooth surface for painting.
Painter’s Tape: Use painter’s tape or frog tape to protect areas you don’t want to paint, such as the walls or the railing.
Drop Cloths or Plastic Sheets: Cover the surrounding area to protect it from paint splatter.
Paint Tray and Roller: A paint tray and roller can make the painting process faster and more efficient.
Paintbrush: Use a high-quality brush for cutting in and painting edges.
Stir Stick: Stir the paint thoroughly before starting.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Prep work:
Remove any old carpet or existing finish from the stairs.
Clean the stairs thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
Fill any holes or cracks with wood filler and sand the surface to create a smooth finish and the most seamless look.
Sand the Stairs:
Sand the stairs to roughen the surface slightly. This helps the paint adhere better.
Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth.
Apply Primer (if needed):
If your stairs are bare wood or have a dark color, apply a coat of primer and let it dry completely.
Tape and Protect:
Use paint tape to protect the edges of the stairs, the walls, and any other areas you don’t want to paint.
Cover the surrounding area with drop cloths or plastic sheets to prevent paint splatter.
Start Painting:
Stir the paint thoroughly.
Use a brush to cut in and paint the edges of the stairs.
Use a roller for the main flat surfaces. Work from the top of the stairs downwards.
Allow to Dry:
Follow the drying time recommended on the paint can between coats.
Apply Additional Coats (if needed):
Depending on the color and type of paint, you may need to apply additional coats. Follow the recommended drying time between coats.
Remove Tape and Clean Up:
Once the paint is dry, carefully remove the painter’s tape.
Clean your brushes and rollers according to the instructions on the paint can.
Allow for Cure Time:
Even though the paint may feel dry, it’s essential to allow sufficient cure time before heavy use. Especially in high-traffic areas. Follow the paint manufacturer’s recommendations.
Remember to follow safety guidelines, work in a well-ventilated area, and use appropriate safety gear, such as a mask and goggles, especially if you’re working with chemicals or sanding materials.
We ended up loving this idea so much we painted the stairs in our former beach house, seen above.
Additional home project ideas:
If you’re looking for even more paint ideas and home design inspiration, be sure to check out these other posts by clicking on each title below-
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It’s also great for sourcing hard to find items and pieces.
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