Renovation Update: Stairs

This weekend we decided to tackle the stairs.

Originally the stairs were carpeted 

with this very lovely navy blue:

We pulled up the carpet weeks ago and as I am sure you can recall

we were not happy with the condition of the wood underneath 

{lots of nails, lots and lots of nails}.

The stairs had some nails but most were clustered up the middle.

Our initial plan was to remove the carpet, refinish the edges, 

and carpet the center with a runner.

However, we saw a picture on Pinterest

of white stairs with a neutral runner and fell in love.

Pinterest Inspiration

 So, Saturday we woke up bright and early and decided to go for it!

We had to sand each and every step to scuff up the wood varnish

allowing for the paint to have something to stick to.

We started with 60 grit sandpaper and worked our way to 150 grit.

 Our generous friend Kenny helped Alex with the sanding of the steps

while I focused my attention on the landing.

I used a sander for the majority of the surface but around the nails I had to hand sand.

I'll admit, I was not loving life then.

Once we scuffed the wood up,

we primed the whole stairwell.

I "forgot" to take a picture mainly because 

it looked terrible and nearly gave me a stroke.

I began to question everything we had started.

The primer went on so streaky, which I know it normal, 

but was not aesthetically pleasing in the least!

Sunday morning Alex left for a business trip 

and as soon as he left for the airport

I painted the stairs.

We still have to look for a runner 

but I am so thankful the paint covered 

much better than the primer.