Sticking wallpaper on a wall is a transformative project that instantly refreshes a room's character and elevates its aesthetic appeal. While the process may seem daunting, achieving a flawless, bubble-free finish is entirely achievable with the right preparation, tools, and technique.
Before you begin, gathering the correct materials is essential for a smooth application. You will need your chosen wallpaper, a high-quality paste specifically designed for the type of paper, a smoothing brush, a cutting knife, a tape measure, a level, a straight edge, and a sturdy step ladder. Pre-mixing the paste according to the manufacturer's instructions and letting it "slake" for the recommended time ensures optimal adhesion and workability.
Preparing the Wall Surface
The success of your wallpaper installation hinges entirely on the preparation of the wall surface. An uneven, dirty, or porous wall will cause the paper to peel, bubble, or tear over time. You must start by stripping away any existing wallpaper, old paint, or loose debris to create a clean, solid foundation.
Next, address any imperfections such as cracks, holes, or nail pops with a premium filler. Once the filler is dry, sand the entire wall meticulously until it is perfectly smooth. It is crucial to clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove all dust and residue, as any particles will prevent the adhesive from bonding correctly. For porous surfaces like concrete or plaster, applying a sealing primer creates a uniform barrier that prevents the wall from absorbing the paste too quickly.
Measuring and Booking the Wallpaper
Accurate measurement prevents waste and ensures proper alignment. Measure the height of your wall and add an extra 10 to 15 centimeters to allow for trimming at the top and bottom. Cut your wallpaper strips to this length, but do not paste them yet.
Booking the wallpaper is a vital step where you fold the paper onto itself, paste side to paste side, without creasing. Let the booked strip rest for the time specified by the manufacturer, which allows the adhesive to activate and makes the paper more manageable. This process helps prevent the paper from stretching or tearing when you begin to apply it to the wall.
The Application Process
With the wall prepared and the wallpaper booked, you are ready to apply the adhesive. Using a medium-sized brush, apply an even layer of paste to the back of the strip, working from the center outward to avoid over-saturation. Fold the paper gently and book it again, allowing the paste to set for the recommended duration.
Unfold the top edge of the strip and carefully align it with your chosen starting point, using a level to ensure it is perfectly straight. Gently press the paper onto the wall, working from the center toward the edges and downward to smooth out any air bubbles. Immediately use a smoothing brush or a plastic smoother to glide over the surface, pushing out trapped air and ensuring a tight bond against the wall.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Smoothing Brush | Removes air bubbles and presses adhesive evenly. |
| Cutting Knife | Trims excess paper at the top and bottom neatly. |
| Level | Ensures the first strip is perfectly straight. |
| Paste Brush | Applies adhesive to the wallpaper without over-saturating. |
Trimming and Finishing Touches
As you progress down the wall, focus on matching the pattern carefully at each seam to create a continuous look. Once the entire strip is up, use a sharp cutting knife to trim the excess paper from the top and bottom, running the blade firmly along the edge of skirting boards or crown moldings.
After the final strip is secured, inspect the surface closely for any remaining bubbles. If you find one, carefully lift the wallpaper, smooth out the adhesive, and press it back down. Clean any excess paste from the wallpaper edges with a damp sponge immediately, and allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before touching the newly decorated surface.
