Hanging wallpaper might seem like a daunting task, but with a little patience and preparation, you can successfully transform your space. Wallpaper can add personality, texture, and style to any room, and it’s a more affordable way to update your decor compared to major renovations. Follow these six simple steps to hang wallpaper like a pro:
Estimated Project Time: 4 to 8 hours (depending on wall size)
Skill Level: Medium
Cost: $1 to $5 per square foot for wallpaper, plus tools and materials
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- Stepladder
- Table or flat surface (for cutting paper)
- Drop cloth or tarp
- Screwdriver
- Sandpaper (various gauges)
- Vinyl spackling paste
- Wallpaper primer (optional)
- Scraper
- Microfiber cloth
- Bowl of warm water
- Wallpaper paste
- Bucket for mixing adhesive
- Smoothing tool or hanging brush
- Seam roller
- Paint tray with liners
- Paint roller with covers
- Paintbrush
- Breakaway knife
- Taping knife
- Wallpaper scissors
- Tape measure
- Level
- Straight edge
Step 1: Prep the Walls
Before you start installing the wallpaper, you need to ensure the wall is smooth and clean for optimal adhesion. This may involve:
- Filling nail holes with spackle.
- Sanding down any bumps or lumps of old paint.
- If you’re covering a dark-colored wall, consider applying a fresh coat of paint and allowing it to fully set for 3-4 weeks.
- Some people also apply wallpaper primer (or sizing) to make the wallpaper stick better and ease removal later. This should dry within a day or two.
Be sure to remove faceplates from light switches and outlets. Use painter’s tape to cover the sockets and protect them from any paste that may seep in. Safety Tip: Always turn off the power before cutting around electrical fixtures.
Step 2: Add a Plumb Line
Next, mark where the first panel will go. Using a pencil and a level (or a straight edge), draw a vertical line (plumb line) down the wall from the baseboard. This line ensures the wallpaper stays straight. If your wallpaper design doesn’t have a clear focal point, start from the left side and work your way to the right. Mark several plumb lines across the wall to maintain alignment as you hang each panel.
Step 3: Measure and Cut the Wallpaper
Measure the height of your wall, then add about 3 inches at both the top and bottom for trimming. Cut your first piece of wallpaper at this size. It’s always good to trim later to ensure precision.
Step 4: Apply Paste and Wallpaper
Using a roller or brush, apply a thin, even coat of wallpaper paste to the wall, going slightly beyond where the edge of the wallpaper will land. Begin with the first strip of wallpaper, lining it up with your plumb line. Gently smooth out any air bubbles with a smoothing tool, working from the center outwards.
For the next strip, apply paste to the wall and overlap it slightly onto the edge of the first panel. This overlap helps blend the seams seamlessly. Continue aligning and smoothing the strips as you go, and use a seam roller to flatten the edges where the panels meet. Use a damp sponge to wipe off excess paste and ensure the paper is smooth.
Step 5: Trim the Edges
Once the wallpaper is up and the paste is dry, use a breakaway knife to trim any excess wallpaper from the top and bottom of the wall. The paste will stiffen once it dries, making it easier to cut. Make sure to change your knife blades frequently to avoid jagged edges.
Step 6: Cut Around Electrical Outlets and Light Switches
This step requires precision. Work carefully around electrical outlets and switches. Use a breakaway knife to make two vertical cuts on either side of the fixture. Then, use scissors to make a horizontal cut in the middle. Gently pull the paper away and trim around the fixture. Afterward, reattach the outlet cover.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where on the wall do you start wallpapering?
Start at the left corner of the wall, unless your design has a central element that needs to be aligned in the middle of the wall. In that case, center the focal point and work outward.
How long do you leave paste on wallpaper before hanging it?
If you’re using “paste the paper” wallpaper (woven wallpaper), let it “book” for 2 to 5 minutes to allow the paste to soak in. However, if you’re using “paste the wall” wallpaper, no waiting is necessary.
What are pattern matches and design repeats?
Pattern match refers to how the wallpaper patterns align at the seams. Wallpapers with a random match are easiest to install. A design repeat is the distance the pattern repeats itself vertically, and you’ll need to order extra paper if the pattern is complex to ensure it aligns properly.
Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Wallpaper
- Order Extra Wallpaper: It’s always a good idea to order extra wallpaper, especially if you’re a beginner. Extra paper helps account for errors, design repeats, and potential future adjustments.
- Lay Out Complex Designs in Advance: For wallpaper with intricate patterns, lay the panels out in the correct order before starting. Mark the back of each strip to keep track of their order and ensure the design is well-aligned.
- Match the Material to the Location: Choose a wallpaper material that fits the space’s needs. For high-traffic areas or rooms with kids, consider durable wallpapers that are easy to clean.
By following these simple steps, you can successfully install wallpaper yourself, transforming your space with minimal effort and cost. Happy wallpapering!
