How to Apply Wallpaper: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
The DIY question that fills many people with dread is how to hang wallpaper. Hanging wallpaper might seem hard, but with the right tools and patience, beginners can get great results. This guide will show you how to hang wallpaper, from picking the right design to adding the final touches.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the right type of wallpaper for your project, considering factors like ease of installation and durability.
- Properly prepare your walls by cleaning, repairing, and priming to ensure optimal adhesion.
- Measure and cut wallpaper strips accurately, allowing for pattern matching and overhang.
- Apply adhesive evenly and hang the first strip plumb to set the stage for a successful installation.
- Smooth out air bubbles and trim excess wallpaper for a professional finish.
What Are the Different Types of Wallpaper?
Choosing wallpaper for your home means picking from many types. Each has its own look and way of being put up. Knowing about these options helps you pick the right one for your room or project. Check out this article for wallpaper ideas in the home.
Traditional Wallpaper (non-pasted)
Traditional wallpaper, a centuries-old decor staple, requires paste for application, which can be a bit messy. However, its appeal lies in the vast array of patterns, colors, and textures it offers. Its strong adhesion not only ensures durability but also effectively conceals surface imperfections.
Tools needed:
- Measuring Tape
- Level
- Utility Knife
- Straight Edge or Ruler
- Pencil
- Wallpaper Paste/Adhesive
- Paste Brush or Roller
- Smoothing Brush or Wallpaper Smoother
- Seam Roller
- Sponge or Cloth
- Step Ladder
Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Peel and stick wallpaper is popular for its ease of use and renter-friendly features. It allows individuals to personalize their homes without damaging the walls. The installation process is straightforward and mess-free, just peel off the backing and apply. Plus, it can be easily removed without leaving residue, making it ideal for temporary or changing decor needs.
Tools needed:
- Measuring Tape
- Level
- Utility Knife or Scissors
- Straight Edge or Ruler
- Pencil
- Smoothing Tool or Wallpaper Smoother
- Step Ladder
How Do I Prepare My Walls for Wallpaper?
Before you start hanging your new wallpaper, it's essential to properly prepare your walls. This step ensures your wallpaper sticks well and looks great. Whether it's for an accent wall or the whole room, cleaning, repairing, and priming makes a big difference.
Repairing
Fix any damage or imperfections on your wall. This might mean filling holes with wood filler, sanding bumps or paint drips, and smoothing out textures. A smooth surface is crucial for a professional look. Use a sanding sponge to smooth out any rough spots, then wipe away dust with a damp cloth.
Cleaning
Next clean your walls well. Remove old wallpaper with a scoring tool and steamer. After removing the old wallpaper, wash the walls with warm water and mild detergent. This gets rid of dust, dirt, grease, and other things that could stop the wallpaper from sticking.
Priming
Finally, prime your walls. A wallpaper primer helps the wallpaper stick better and makes it easier to remove later. The right primer depends on your wall and the wallpaper you're using. For example, new drywall or dark paint might need a special primer.
Test the primer on a small, hidden area first. If it works, prime the whole wall. Let it dry completely, then wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth to remove dust or debris.
| Wall Preparation Step | Importance | Tools & Products |
|---|---|---|
| Repairing | Smooths out imperfections for a professional-looking installation | Wood filler, sanding sponge, painter's tool |
| Cleaning | Removes old wallpaper, dust, dirt, and grease for better adhesion | Wallpaper scoring tool, steamer, vinegar, TSP cleaner |
| Priming | Creates a barrier for easier installation and removal | Wallpaper primer, primer for specific wall types (e.g., new drywall, dark paint) |
By repairing, cleaning and priming your walls well, you'll get a smooth, lasting, and beautiful result. Always test your wallpaper on a small area first to check the texture and look.
Measuring and Cutting
Before you start hanging your wallpaper, it's crucial to measure and cut your strips correctly. Measuring the total wallpaper needed for your project can be tricky, but Printing Interiors offers an intuitive wallpaper calculator on every product page that determines exactly how much you'll need, including wastage. This careful preparation ensures a smoother installation and a professional-looking result.
Accurate measuring
First, measure the height of the wall from the baseboard to the ceiling. Add 4 inches (10 cm) to this measurement for trimming at the top and bottom. This extra length helps avoid gaps and short strips.
When measuring the width, consider the pattern repeat. For large patterns, adjust your starting point to center the design prominently. For smaller patterns, the repeat isn't as crucial.
We recommend you ignore calculating for windows and doors unless they are a very large feature of the wall. This way, you'll have some wastage to allow for mistakes and ensure you have enough wallpaper to finish the job.
Cutting techniques
After getting your measurements, lay out the wallpaper flat. Use a pencil and straight edge to mark cutting lines on the back. Double-check your measurements to avoid mistakes.
For clean cuts, use a sharp utility knife and cutting guide. Cutting on a flat surface is easier. Cut slowly to avoid tears or jagged edges.
Pattern matching
For patterned wallpaper, matching the design is crucial. This ensures a smooth look on your walls. Align the pattern on the first strip with the next before cutting.
| Type of Match | Description | Cutting Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Match | The pattern continues uninterrupted from one strip to the next | Align the pattern on the left edge of the new strip with the right edge of the previous strip |
| Drop Match | The pattern is offset between strips, creating a diagonal or staggered effect | Align the top of the new strip's pattern with the bottom of the previous strip's pattern |
| Random Match | No specific pattern alignment required between strips | Cut strips consecutively without pattern matching considerations |
For pattern matching, always cut with extra wallpaper at the top and bottom. This extra will be trimmed later, ensuring a perfect fit.
By measuring and cutting your wallpaper accurately, you're set for a successful installation. It will be stress-free and look great.
Hanging the Wallpaper
Now that you've prepared everything, it's time to hang the wallpaper. Paying close attention to detail and using the right techniques is key.
Preparing the Adhesive (non-pasted wallpaper)
To prepare wallpaper paste, start by gathering a packet of wallpaper paste powder and a clean mixing container. Measure the recommended amount of cold water into the container, as specified on the paste packet. Gradually sprinkle the paste powder into the water while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Mix thoroughly with a stirring stick or whisk until the paste is smooth and consistent. Allow the paste to sit for a few minutes to thicken, according to the packet's instructions. Finally, give the paste a final stir before applying the paste on the wall.
Measuring and Cutting for the First Strip
Before you start, measure the wall's height and add 4 inches at the top and bottom. This extra will help you trim neatly later. Cut the wallpaper to the right length with a sharp knife and straightedge.
Learning How to Apply Paste to the Wall
Apply the paste with a paint roller for even coverage. Start at the top and work down, using a thin layer. Make sure to cover more area than the wallpaper to make it easier to place.
How to Hang the First Strip of Wallpaper
With an even coat of paste apply the wallpaper by placing the first strip against the plumb line you drew, ensuring it's straight. This strip is important as it sets the standard for the rest. Press the wallpaper gently, smoothing out bubbles with your hands or a smoother.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Apply wallpaper paste to the wall using a paint roller |
| 2 | Align the first strip of wallpaper with the plumb line |
| 3 | Smooth out air bubbles with hands or a wallpaper smoother |
| 4 | Trim excess wallpaper at the top and bottom using a utility knife and straightedge |
Ensuring the Strip is Plumb
To check if the first strip is plumb, use a level or plumb bob. Make adjustments if needed for a straight look. Once it's right, trim the excess at the top and bottom for a clean finish.
Smoothing and Removing Air Bubbles
When hanging wallpaper, it's key to smooth out air bubbles. Bubbles can happen due to bad adhesive, poor wall prep, or not smoothing right. Some bubbles might go away as the adhesive dries. But, you need to fix any that don't go away to get a perfect finish.
Using a Wallpaper Brush for Smooth Application
A wallpaper brush is vital for a bubble-free finish. Start by pressing the brush in the middle of the strip, then move to the edges. Use even pressure to push out air without stretching or tearing the paper. Keep a damp sponge ready to clean up any extra adhesive.
Here are some tips for using a wallpaper brush:
- Choose a brush with soft, dense bristles to avoid damaging the wallpaper
- Avoid too much pressure to prevent stretching or tearing
- Check the wallpaper's levelness for a straight application
- Change the water for your sponge often to avoid spreading adhesive
Techniques to Remove Excess Wallpaper Bubbles
Even with careful smoothing, some bubbles might stay. You'll need to use specific methods to fix these bubbles. Experts say fixing wallpaper bubbles usually takes less than 10 minutes with the right tools.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp Snap-Blade Knife | To create a small incision in the wallpaper bubble |
| Wallpaper Pasting Syringe | To inject a small amount of adhesive behind the bubble |
| Wallpaper Smoothing Tool | To press out the air and smooth the wallpaper against the wall |
| Damp Sponge | To clean up any excess adhesive and maintain a tidy work area |
When fixing bubbles, use adhesive sparingly to avoid more bubbles or too much moisture. Inject a little adhesive, then press the wallpaper with your tool. With patience, you can get a bubble-free, professional look that will change your space.
Trimming and Finishing
After hanging your wallpaper, it's time for the final touches. You'll trim excess wallpaper, handle tricky spots, clean up paste, and use scraps for accents or repairs. This stage makes your room look polished and professional.
Trimming Extra Wallpaper at the Top and Bottom
Use a sharp utility knife to cut off excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboard. Change your blade every three panels making it easier to cut and giving you a clean edge. A 4" overlap gives you enough room for trimming.
Run a wallpaper smoother along the edge to keep the line straight. This ensures a professional finish.
Dealing with Difficult Areas
When working around windows, doors, and corner of the wall, make relief cuts. This helps the wallpaper wrap around smoothly.
Cleaning Up Excess Adhesive
Most wallpaper installations use paste or adhesive. Clean up any excess quickly. Use a damp sponge to remove residue without soaking the paper.
Using Scraps for Accents or Repairs
Don't throw away wallpaper scraps! Use them for repairs or unique accents. Here are some ideas:
- Line the backs of bookshelves or cabinets for a pop of color and pattern
- Create custom artwork by framing wallpaper scraps
- Decorate small boxes or trays for a coordinated look
- Patch any damaged areas in the future using carefully matched scraps
By following these tips, your wallpaper installation will look beautiful and last long. Paying attention to details ensures a professional finish you can be proud of.
Common Questions
Starting a wallpaper project can raise many questions. We're here to answer some common ones to help you get professional-looking results.
How long do you leave paste on wallpaper before hanging?
For traditional wallpaper, let the paste soak for about three minutes before hanging. This makes the paper easier to apply and reduces wrinkles.
Do walls have to be perfect for wallpaper?
Walls don't need to be perfect, but they should be clean and smooth. Any big imperfections can show through the wallpaper. Use a straight edge and spirit level to check and fix any issues before you start.
Is it better to cut wallpaper wet or dry?
It's better to cut wallpaper dry for cleaner cuts. Wet wallpaper can be harder to handle and may lead to uneven cuts. Use a sharp blade and straight edge for precise cuts.
Do you use a roller or brush for wallpaper?
Use a roller to apply paste evenly and a brush for edges and corners. A sponge is also useful for smoothing out the wallpaper and removing excess paste.
Do you overlap when hanging wallpaper?
Yes, overlapping strips slightly is crucial to avoid gaps. Aim for an overlap of 1/8 to 1/4 inch. Use a roller to press the seams together to achieve a seamless look.
Do you start in the middle of the wall when wallpapering?
No, start on the left side of the wall. Use a plumb bob line to ensure the first strip is straight. This helps keep the pattern consistent and avoids misalignment.
Do I need to sand paper before wallpaper?
Light sanding may be needed to smooth out the wall before priming and hanging. This ensures the wallpaper adheres evenly, reducing bubbles and texture issues but make sure to clean after sanding.
How to hang wallpaper without seams showing?
To hide seams, overlap strips properly and use a seam roller. Avoid overworking the wallpaper to prevent edges from lifting. If seams show, use adhesive to fix them.
Do you start wallpaper at the top or bottom?
Always start at the top of the wall. This allows for excess to be trimmed at the bottom, ensuring a clean edge along the ceiling.
Is wallpaper hard to do yourself?
Wallpapering can be challenging but is doable for most. It requires patience, attention to detail, and the right tools. Proper preparation and careful application can lead to great results.
How to stick wallpaper without bubbles?
To avoid bubbles, apply paste evenly with a roller. Smooth out each strip from the center to the edges with a brush or sponge. This removes air pockets and ensures adhesion.
Should I wallpaper over old wallpaper?
It's not recommended to wallpaper over old wallpaper. It may not stick well and can show old damage. Remove the old wallpaper, repair the wall, and prime before hanging new. If removing is not possible, ensure the old wallpaper is in good condition and sealed before installing new.
Conclusion
Hanging wallpaper can be a fun DIY project if you follow the right steps. Start by repairing and cleaning your walls to ensure a smooth installation. With peel and stick wallpaper, there's no need for priming or messy paste, making it an easy and efficient choice.
While wallpapering might seem daunting initially, Printing Interiors believes peel and stick options make the task much easier and less intimidating. With patience and attention to detail, you can transform your space beautifully. Take your time to align everything carefully, even in tricky spots, for a perfect result.
After completing your project, enjoy your newly wallpapered room that reflects your style. The moisture-resistant properties of peel and stick wallpaper ensure longevity, and any leftover material can be saved for future updates. Enjoy your new space for many years to come.
