Winders are rarely symmetrical. One side is longer, the angles change, and even small measurement errors show up immediately once the runner is installed. A paper template captures the real shape of each winding step so the runner can be cut precisely, saving time on-site and reducing waste.

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Tools you’ll need

• Template paper (wide enough to cover the full winder step)
  

• Tape (masking tape works well)
  

• Pencil or marker
  

• Scissors / knife for trimming
  

• Straight edge (optional)
  

• Label stickers or marker for clear numbering
  
  

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Step-by-step: How to template winder steps for a stair runner

Step 1: Receiving the template paper

Start by checking you have enough template paper to cover:

• the full width of the runner position on the step
  

• the full depth of the step where the runner will sit
  

• any return/edge detail you need to capture
  
  

Tip: It’s better to have extra paper and trim down than try to patch pieces together.

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Step 2: Gather the necessary tools

Before you start templating, have everything to hand:

• tape
  

• pencil/marker
  

• scissors/knife
  

• something to write clear labels
  
  

This keeps the process clean and stops templates getting mixed up mid-way through.

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Step 3: Position the template paper on the winder step

Lay the paper onto the winder step exactly where the runner will sit.

Key points:

• keep it flat with no ripples
  

• tape it in place so it can’t shift while you trace
  

• make sure the paper sits square to your runner path (not skewed)
  
  

Pro tip: Consistency matters—position each template the same way so every step flows properly through the turn.

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Step 4: Trace the outline

Trace the exact edges you need the runner to match.

What to trace:

• the front nosing line (where the runner breaks over the edge)
  

• the side edges that define the winder shape
  

• any key reference points (spindles, skirt lines, posts—anything that affects the cut)
  
  

Keep your pencil tight to the edge so the line represents the true step shape.

 

Step 5: Cut and refine the template

Cut the template carefully, then refit it to confirm accuracy.

Refining method:

1. cut slightly outside your line first
   

2. test-fit on the step
   

3. trim small amounts until it sits perfectly
   

4. re-tape and re-check
   
   

Rule: Trim slowly. A template that’s slightly big can be refined; a template that’s cut short is useless.

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Step 6: Label each step (this prevents expensive mistakes)

This is the part people rush—and it’s where errors happen.

Label every template clearly with:

• step number (e.g., W1, W2, W3)
  

• direction / orientation (arrow “UP” and arrow “FRONT”)
  

• left/right notes if helpful (“wall side”, “banister side”)
  

• any special notes (e.g., “allow extra for border”, “tight against post”)
  
  

Best practice: Stack templates in order as you go and keep them flat.

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Common templating mistakes to avoid

• Paper shifting while tracing → tape it down firmly first

• Not marking orientation → always add arrows for UP and FRONT
  

• Assuming winders are identical → template each winder step individually
  

• Cutting tight too early → rough cut, test fit, refine slowly
  

• No numbering system → label as you go, not at the end
  
  

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FAQ 

Do I need to template every winder step?

Yes. Winders often vary from step to step, even in the same turn. Individual templates give the most accurate runner fit.

Can I measure winders instead of templating?

You can, but templating is usually more reliable for precise cutting, especially on older staircases where angles aren’t consistent.

What should I write on each template?

At minimum: step number + arrows showing FRONT and UP. Without that, templates get flipped and the cut will be wrong.

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Get in touch with Fenston Carter

If you’ve got winder stairs and want a runner that fits cleanly through the turn, we can cut your runner precisely from your paper templates and advise on the best finish for your staircase.