How to Build Stairway Railings

Measure the length from the bottom to the top stair tread using a tape measure.

Mark the length of the measurement from step 1 onto the 2-by-2 hardwood board using a pencil and tape measure.

Cut the 2-by-2 hardwood board to length with a miter saw. This is the railing.

Insert the roman ogee bit into the router table. Adjust the height of the bit and fence to rout at 2-inch wide by 2-inch thick board.

Run the railing board through the router table to rout one 2-by-96-inch side of the board to create a decorative edge.

Run the railing board through the router table with the routed side against the fence. This will create two decorative edges on the railing. The decorative edges are the top of the railing.

Sand the entire railing board with the wood grain until it is smooth.

Apply a wood finish to the railing using a paintbrush. Allow the finish to dry for 4 hours between coats if you apply more than one coat. Wait 24 hours before handling after the final coat.

Position the brackets evenly spaced throughout the length of the railing. The railing side of the brackets should be flat against the bottom of the railing.

Drive the provided screws through the mounting holes in the brackets using a screw gun.