Ever looked at your brick fireplace and thought it could use a bit of style? You're not alone. Wallpaper, once purely for walls, has evolved to adorn fireplace surrounds, volte-facing the traditional tile or stone mantle. But the question remains, can you put wallpaper over a brick fireplace?
In short, yes, you can. Wallpaper, brick, and a bit of creativity can create a stunning focal point in your room. But as with any DIY project, there are steps to follow, precautions to consider, and a few myths to debunk.
Preparation: Bricks and Wallpaper
Before you dive into this project, it's crucial to understand the canvas you're working on. Bricks are porous, and they suck up moisture. This is where the first concern arises - wallpaper is not waterproof. But don't let that deter you. There's a solution.
Water-resistant primers, like shellac or PVA, can seal your bricks, creating a barrier between your wallpaper and the moisture-loving bricks. It's a preventative measure to safeguard your beautiful, hard work from peeling or bubbling.
Prepping Your Bricks
Your bricks might be the epitome of rustic charm, but for wallpaper, they need a smooth surface. This means filling any gaps or holes, sanding down any rough spots, and thoroughly cleaning the bricks.
Don't forget to remove any old soot or residue to give your wallpaper the best possible base. Once dry, apply your water-resistant primer, and voila! You're ready for wallpapering.
Choosing Your Wallpaper
Now, it's time to pick your wallpaper. Heavy-duty, thick papers aren't ideal for fireplace walls. They can't curve around the corners like lighter, more flexible papers. So, opt for a medium-weight, paste-the-wall type paper for the best results.
Consider the pattern too. Small, repeating patterns work best. Plus, remember, unless you're going for a ‘thing that shouldn't be there but works’ vibe, avoid flocked or textured wallpapers. They'll struggle to lie flat on the uneven surface.
Installing Wallpaper on Your Fireplace
With your bricks primed and your wallpaper picked, it's time to paper your fireplace. It's a slightly different process than papering walls, so let's break it down.
First, measure around your fireplace. If your chimney breast protrudes significantly, you'll need to create a seam there. Apply your wallpaper paste to the wall, not the paper, for easier application and heightened control.
Papering the Upper Portion
Start at the top, using a seam as your guide to ensure a neat, even line. Use a brush to apply paste along the top edge, then smooth onto the wall, starting at the seam and working your way down and out.
Use a seam roller along the seam to ensure it's firmly adhered and to remove any air bubbles. Smooth the rest of the strip down with a squeegee, scraping off any excess paste as you go.
Papering the Lower Portion
Papering around the hearth can be tricky. You'll need a sharp knife and a steady hand to cut your wallpaper to size. Start by papering around the edges, then fill in the center, using the same method as above.
Remember, wallpaper expands when wet, so don't be tempted to cut your paper too short. Allow for a bit of shrinking once it's applied.
Once your wallpaper is up, allow it to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then, sit back, admire your handiwork, and enjoy your stylish, newly papered bricked fireplace.
So there you have it – yes, you can put wallpaper over a brick fireplace, creating a unique, personalized look for your home. Now, go forth and paper. Your styled fireplace awaits.