DIY Staircase Makeover with Tile Stair Riser Decals

From plain wood to patterned beauty — all with Ceramic Pattern Stair Riser Decals

There’s something magical about a before-and-after transformation. My plain wooden staircase leading up to the sunroom was functional, but it lacked personality. With just one simple update, I gave it a coastal-inspired, Spanish-style look that everyone thinks is real tile!

Before and After

The transformation speaks for itself — from plain wood risers to colorful, Spanish-inspired patterns that look just like real tile.

The Project

I used Ceramic Tile Pattern Removable Stair Riser Decals designed to mimic hand-painted tiles. The package came with 13 strips — exactly the number of risers I needed. To make sure they fit perfectly, I carefully measured each riser and trimmed the decals before applying.

I started by working from the bottom up, measuring and cutting each piece to size. Here’s a look partway through the project:

Wood staircase partially covered with Tile Stair Riser Decals showing the measuring and trimming process during DIY project

Midway through — carefully measuring and trimming each Tile Stair Riser Decal to fit the risers.

The finished look instantly reminded me of my trips to the Spanish Coast — colorful tiled streets, seaside villas, and that perfect mix of coastal charm with old-world artistry. Now, every time I climb the stairs, it feels like a little piece of vacation at home.

The results are so realistic that every guest who visits asks which tile installer I used!

Tips for Applying Tile Stair Riser Decals

  • Measure carefully: Every riser may vary slightly in height, so measure each one before cutting.
  • Prep the surface: Make sure the risers are clean and dust-free.
  • Start from the bottom: It’s easier to adjust your technique as you move upward.
  • Line up the patterns: Consistency makes the look seamless.
  • Smooth as you go: Use a cloth or flat edge to remove bubbles.

Other Coastal-Inspired Stair Riser Decals to Try

If you’re drawn to a coastal or beach house feel, there are so many fun decal options! I haven’t tried these myself, but they caught my eye and look like a playful way to transform stairs:

Why I Love This DIY

This quick update completely transformed my stairs. The patterns add warmth and personality with a Spanish-inspired coastal feel, while still fitting beautifully into my home’s decor. It’s proof that sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference.

Spanish Coast staircase with patterned ceramic tiles that inspired the DIY Tile Stair Riser Decals project

Spanish Coast inspiration — the tiled streets that sparked my staircase makeover.

And the best part? If I ever want to change the look, I can just peel them off and try a new style.

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