Easy Home Solutions for a Year of Upgrades

Step up the visual interest on one of your home’s most handsome focal points—the front stairs—by papering the risers with a playful design. All you need is a single roll of wallpaper, so even a pricey version won’t break the bank. Since most wallpaper widths are narrower than typical staircases, pick a pattern that looks good sideways to avoid having to piece strips together. And pay attention to scale: Too-small prints can feel fussy, while a too-large print may end up unrecognizable once you cut it up. A bold retro design, such as the one shown here, adds a whimsical touch in an older home. Just be sure to use coated or vinyl paper so that you can easily wash away scuffs.