Witches’ stairs are a strange but interesting design feature that became popular on TikTok a couple of years ago. Even though they have an unusual history, their name doesn’t really have to do with superstition. Instead, these stairs are a clever design choice. When made and installed correctly, they can be both useful and nice to look at!
Witches’ Stairs aren’t what they Appear.
While the stories about witches’ stairs might sound more interesting, they actually have a very practical purpose. They are really useful in homes with little space, like attics, lofts, and tiny houses. Witches’ stairs are designed to save space while still allowing you to go from one floor to another. Architects often call them “alternate tread stairs.”
How Witches’ Stairs Function
Photo Credit: itsthatrealestatechick | TikTok
Witches’ stairs are designed to save space in two ways. First, each step is only half as wide as regular steps, and the steps are staggered. This makes the staircase narrower than a traditional one. These smaller stairs can also be used for extra storage, like for books or displaying items. According to Scott Schuttner, who wrote “Basic Stairbuilding,” the distance between the steps on one side of an alternating-tread stair is twice the height of the rise, which gives you more space on the steps and makes them safer.
Besides being practical, witches’ stairs meet building codes and safety standards in the U.S. A standard staircase is usually 3 feet wide, while a residential witches’ staircase is typically between 27 and 30 inches wide.
Real Origins
Photo Credit: itsthatrealestatechick | TikTok
In 1985, a businessman named J.M. Lapeyre created a metal version of witches’ stairs. He thought these stairs could be a safe alternative to ladders in commercial and warehouse settings, especially in tight spaces where ladders might not be safe. This design is also used on commercial ships and oil rigs, and it can be called ship stairs or ship ladders, in addition to witches’ stairs and alternate tread stairs.
Misconception
Photo Credit: itsthatrealestatechick | TikTok
When videos of witches’ stairs first appeared on TikTok in 2021, they were linked to an urban legend. According to this legend, these staircases were built in 17th-century Massachusetts to keep witches away during the Salem witch trials because “witches can’t climb up them.” This idea has been proven false, but another rumor suggests that Thomas Jefferson came up with the design. Because of this, witches’ stairs are sometimes called Jeffersonian or Jefferson stairs. However, an original version of the design was also mentioned in a book called “Monckton’s One Plane Method Of Hand Railing and Stair Building,” published in 1888.
Debunking the Myth
Photo Credit: conspiracy___time | TikTok
The exact origins of witches’ stairs are a bit unclear, but one thing is clear: there’s no historical evidence that they were designed to keep witches away. Historian Robin Briggs has studied many historical sources and found no mention of stairs that could disable witches. Interestingly, some people with these unique staircases also buried “witch bottles” or included dead cats in their homes for protection against witchcraft, but Briggs calls this idea “pure disinformation.” He notes that the closest belief was that putting a broom over the door would trap a witch inside.
While it’s fun to think about myths and legends, it’s also interesting to know the real history of witches’ stairs. Regardless, they offer a unique and decorative alternative to regular staircases, adding a fun and quirky touch to home design.
Teen Crochets Her Own Zendaya-Inspired Prom Dress for $60 — and in Just Three Days (Exclusive)
Imagine deciding to crochet your own prom dress from scratch with just four days to go before the event. It sounds impossible, doesn’t it? Not for 18-year-old Sarah Akinbuwa of Boston, though, who made this challenge a viral hit!
Sarah chose to rely on her amazing crochet abilities despite having only four days to prepare for her prom. What was the outcome? a gorgeous floor-length, pink, strapless gown that was modeled after Zendaya’s famous Valentino Haute Couture outfit from the 2023 SAG Awards.
Sarah reflected on her choice and said to PEOPLE, “I had to make a dress by hand.”
Sarah not only finished the gorgeous dress in three days, but she also crocheted a handbag and floor-length shrug to match. What talent and commitment!
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Sarah’s outfit was inspired by Zendaya’s SAG Awards gown, which had 190 roses on the skirt. Even though Sarah’s version was finished much faster, it is still quite intricate and beautiful.
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With over 26 million views, the TikTok film chronicling Sarah’s creative journey has already captured the attention of millions of people!
In a public restroom, Sarah is seen wearing the outfit in one of her TikTok videos, and a bystander couldn’t help but remark on her artistic work. “I love your dress,” the person was heard saying. Sarah happily replied, “Thank you, I made it.” I needed three days to complete it.
The compliments didn’t end there. Sarah told PEOPLE, “My friends loved the dress and I got tons of compliments.”
For Sarah, crocheting a gown in such a short amount of time was a natural challenge, even though it would appear overwhelming to others. Since she was twelve years old, she has been crocheting, gradually improving her talents.
In addition to making her own prom dress, Sarah accepts custom orders and crafts lovely, one-of-a-kind items for loved ones, acquaintances, and Instagram followers. Her crocheting abilities are unmatched!
And what about the future? Sarah intends to pursue a profession in fashion design. She has talent and imagination, so it’s not hard to envision her rising to prominence in the fashion industry.
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