as we know both stair treads and stair nose is quite expensive, i was wondering is there any other alternative.
what about using 1/4 round at the end of stair.

you can make your own out of the flooring if it's 3/4" solid. there wasa good articlein a nwfa mag awhile back lets see here.....http://www.nwfa.org//uplfiles//articles//HF-0805-71.pdf
this oughta help.