Abstract: A carpet stretching device and method of using the same to install carpet on stairs, the device including a primary support arm extending from an anchor to a base, a lever arm extending from a grip to a base, a gripping head having carpet-engaging teeth attached to a base, and a stretching mechanism operatively connecting the base of the support arm to the base of the gripping head. The stretching mechanism also is operatively connected to the lever arm, so that application of a force to the grip of the lever arm forces the gripping head to move toward the anchor of the primary support arm.