How to Hang Wallpaper Like a Pro
Photo by Antonio Castellano on Unsplash
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How to Hang Wallpaper Like a Pro
Transforming your living space with the elegant texture and colour of wallpaper can breathe new life into any room. Whether you’re looking to add a statement wall or cover an entire room, hanging wallpaper can be a satisfying DIY project. With a little guidance and the right tools, you’ll be ready to tackle this job yourself. Here’s how you can hang wallpaper like a pro!
What You’ll Need
- Wallpaper rolls
- Wallpaper paste or adhesive
- Paste brush or roller
- Utility knife
- Smoothing brush or wallpaper smoother
- Measuring tape
- Spirit level or plumb line
- Pencil
- Scissors
- Stepladder
- Bucket or pasting table
- Sponge or cloth
Step 1: Prepare Your Walls
Before you begin, it’s crucial to ensure your walls are clean, dry, and smooth. Remove any existing wallpaper, fill in holes or cracks with a suitable filler, and sand down any rough patches. Wipe the walls with a damp cloth to remove dust and allow them to dry thoroughly. If you’re working in a freshly plastered room, apply a primer to help the wallpaper paste adhere properly.
Step 2: Measure and Cut Wallpaper
Measure the wall height and add an extra 10cm to allow for trimming. Cut your first strip of wallpaper and lay it on the floor or your pasting table. Be sure to align any patterns correctly before cutting additional strips. Repeat this step until you have enough strips to complete the wall.
Step 3: Apply the Paste
Using a paste brush or roller, apply paste to the back of your first strip, ensuring an even layer. If you’re using pre-pasted wallpaper, submerge it in water as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Fold the strip with pasted sides facing each other for ease of handling, taking care not to crease the paper. Allow it to soak for the recommended time.
Step 4: Hang the Wallpaper
Using your spirit level or plumb line, draw a vertical line on the wall where the first strip will be hung. This ensures your wallpaper hangs straight. Unfold the top half of the strip and align it with the line. Gently smooth it down with your hands, working outwards to remove any air bubbles. Use a smoothing brush to further press the wallpaper onto the wall. Trim the excess at the top and bottom using a utility knife.
Step 5: Continue with Additional Strips
Match the pattern on subsequent strips and repeat the pasting and hanging process. Ensure they butt up closely for a seamless look. Use a damp sponge to clean off any excess paste from the seams and surface.
Safety Tips
Always use a stable stepladder and avoid overstretching to reach higher areas on the wall. When using sharp tools like utility knives or scissors, handle them with care to prevent injury. Be mindful of the paste and ensure you work in a well-ventilated area if using strong adhesives.
Conclusion
Hanging wallpaper can be a gratifying way to personalise your home and showcase your creativity. Remember to take your time with preparation and application for the best results. With this guide in hand, you’re well on your way to becoming proficient in wallpaper application. Soon, your walls will tell a story all their own, beautifully wrapped in your chosen design.
Ready to give it a go? Share your progress and experiences in our comments section. Happy decorating from all of us at Quick Home Fix!
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Tools & Materials
These essentials will help you measure, paste, hang and trim wallpaper neatly.
- Ready mixed wallpaper adhesive – gives a reliable bond and helps avoid dry patches or lifting edges.
- Wallpaper pasting brush – spreads paste evenly across each strip, including the edges and corners.
- Wallpaper smoothing brush and seam roller – helps remove bubbles and press the paper flat for tidy joins.
- 600mm spirit level – useful for marking a straight vertical guide before hanging the first drop.
- 5m tape measure – lets you measure wall height accurately and add extra length for trimming.
- Snap-off utility knife with spare blades – makes clean cuts at ceilings, skirting boards and around fittings.
