Wallpapering a room is one of the most effective ways to transform the atmosphere and aesthetic of a space, providing an immediate impact that paint often cannot match. Whether you are looking to add subtle texture, create a feature wall, or completely revamp a child’s bedroom, the process requires careful planning and execution. Success hinges on understanding the specific type of wallpaper, the condition of your walls, and selecting the right adhesives and tools for the job.
Preparing the Wall Surface
The foundation of a flawless finish is always the preparation of the substrate. Skipping this step is the primary reason for peeling or bubbling, regardless of the quality of the paper. You must start by ensuring the wall is clean, dry, and structurally sound.
Any cracks, holes, or imperfections need to be filled with a suitable filler and sanded smooth once dry. If you are wallpapering over existing paint, the surface should be lightly sanded to provide a grip for the adhesive. For surfaces that have been previously wallpapered, you must remove the old paper completely; remnants of old paste will prevent the new paper from adhering correctly. It is also wise to check for moisture issues; a damp wall will ruin any application, so fix any leaks before proceeding.
Measuring and Cutting
Precision in measurement saves time and reduces material waste. Before you unroll a single strip, calculate the total square footage of your walls by measuring the height and width of each section. Always buy a little extra—usually an additional 15%—to account for pattern matching and trimming errors.
When it comes to the actual cutting, you should generally measure the height of the wall plus an extra 2 to 4 inches. This overhang allows you to slide the paper into position vertically without worrying about reaching the exact length immediately, and the excess is trimmed later with a sharp utility knife. Remember to match the pattern repeat at this stage; cutting strips that align seamlessly later will save you significant frustration during the booking phase.
The Booking Process
Booking is a specific term in wallpapering that refers to the process of folding the paper paste-side to paste-side to allow the adhesive to activate. This step is crucial for vinyl and pre-pasted papers, as it ensures the glue becomes tacky without fully drying, which allows for easy manipulation and a smooth application.
To book your paper, you lay the strip flat on a clean surface, paste side facing up, and fold each end toward the middle like an envelope. You then let it sit for the time specified by the manufacturer—usually anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. During this time, the adhesive begins to cure to a sticky consistency, making the paper easier to handle and align when it meets the wall.
Applying the Adhesive
While some modern pre-pasted options only require water, the most professional results often come from using a separate high-quality paste. Applying paste to the wall rather than the paper is generally recommended for large projects or grasscloth textures, as it allows for easy adjustment.
Use a smooth roller to apply an even coat of paste to the wall, working in manageable sections of about 3 to 4 feet. If you are pasting the back of the paper, use a paste brush or a specialized smooth roller to cover the entire surface, ensuring full coverage without creating pools of excess adhesive. Work quickly but carefully to avoid the paste skinning over before you hang the paper.
Hanging and Smoothing
Aligning the first strip is critical, as it sets the standard for the entire room. Use a level or a chalk line to ensure your first edge is perfectly straight. Carefully position the paper onto the wall, allowing the top to rest momentarily while you adjust the bottom into place.
Once positioned, work from the center outward, using a smoothing brush or a plastic smoother to push out air bubbles and ensure intimate contact with the wall. Start in the middle and move toward the edges and corners. You will need to trim the excess overlap at the top and bottom with a sharp utility knife and a straight edge, often using a cutting board or a piece of hardboard as a guide to protect the wall and wallpaper.
Handling Corners and Trim
Inside corners require a slight overlap to ensure the paper doesn't tear at the bend. Use a utility knife to gently score the paper at the corner, allowing it to fold flat without creating a bulge. For outside corners, you should create a neat seam or use a corner bead for a hard, modern line. When you reach electrical outlets or switches, always turn off the power at the breaker, remove the faceplate, and cut holes in the wallpaper with a sharp craft knife, using the outlet cover as a template.
Finally, clean up immediately. Roll up any excess wallpaper, rinse your brushes and rollers thoroughly, and wipe down the floor with a damp cloth. The adhesive can harden quickly, and cleaning it while wet is infinitely easier than scraping it off days later.