Wallpaper is a fantastic way to instantly transform a space, adding character, colour, and texture. While it might seem like a daunting task, with the right preparation and a bit of patience, you can achieve a professional-looking finish to wallpapering a room like a pro.
What You'll Need
To get started, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. Having everything on hand will make the process much smoother.
- Beautiful wallpaper, from my range perhaps? Hint hint!
- Wallpaper paste
- A pasting brush or roller (if not using paste-the-wall paper, check the product details page on I Love Wallpaper for which application your paper of choice is!)
- Tape measure
- Utility knife with a fresh blade
- Straight edge or ruler
- Wallpaper smoothing tool or brush
- Seam roller
- Large scissors
- Pencil
- Bucket for paste and a cloth for cleaning
Step 1: Prepare Your Walls
Preparation is the most crucial step for a flawless finish. Start by removing any old wallpaper and filling in any holes or cracks with a filler. Once the filler is dry, sand the surface smooth. Make sure your walls are clean, dry, and free of dust. For best results, consider priming the walls, especially if you are applying wallpaper to a new wall or a dark-painted surface.
Step 2: Measure and Cut
Measure the height of your wall from the ceiling to the top of the skirting board. Add about 10-15cm to this measurement to allow for trimming at the top and bottom. Carefully cut your first strip of wallpaper to this length. If your wallpaper has a pattern, be sure to match the pattern from one strip to the next.
TOP TIP: It’s always a good idea to lay out your cut strips on the floor before you start hanging to ensure the pattern flows seamlessly.
Step 3: Apply the Paste
Depending on your wallpaper, you will either apply paste to the wall or to the back of the wallpaper itself.
- Paste-the-Wall: This is a popular, clean, and easy method. Simply apply the paste directly to the wall section where your first strip will go, using a roller or brush.
- Paste-the-Paper: If your wallpaper requires this method, lay the cut strip face down on a clean, flat surface. Apply an even layer of paste to the back of the paper. Fold the top and bottom of the paper towards the middle, "booking" it, and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the paste to soak in.
Step 4: Hang the First Strip
This is the most important part! A straight first strip ensures the rest of your paper will be straight. Using a spirit level, draw a vertical line on the wall where the edge of your first strip will hang. Align the strip with this line, leaving a little excess at the top. Smooth the paper down with your smoothing tool, working from the centre outwards to push out any air bubbles.
Step 5: Trim and Finish
Once the strip is smooth, use your utility knife and straight edge to carefully trim the excess paper at the top and bottom. For a perfect line, press the straight edge into the crease where the wall meets the ceiling or skirting board and trim away the excess. Use a seam roller to gently press down on the seams between strips to ensure a tight, even bond.
Step 6: Have fun with it!
Get a friend to help. Having a second pair of hands can be a game-changer, especially when hanging long strips of wallpaper. Pop your favourite tunes on, and enjoy. Wallpapering seriously isn’t as scary as you think!
