Easy way to add risers to open tread stairs?

Hi there, hoping some chippies may be able to help...we have open tread interior stairs with a plywood backing that have been painted in a light colour. Not only does it really show dirt and wear and tear, we have a curious young toddler, and would like to carpet down the centre of the stairs to minimise future fall impacts! This is tricky to do on open tread, so I'm wanting to know an easy way to add risers to these stairs, given there is not much access behind the stairs. Can they be pre-painted and then glued or is there a way of attaching that won't show on the treads? Thanks!! :2tsup:


More...