When it comes to wallpapering, many of us will turn to the professionals for fear of getting it wrong if we attempt it ourselves. But with the right care, patience, and attention to detail this can actually be a fairly simple DIY task!
Below is an essential guide by painting and decorating expert Pat Gilham at MyJobQuote.co.uk on wallpapering like a pro:
Select the Right Wallpaper
Naturally, the first step in any wallpapering journey is finding the right one for you! Look for one that reflects your style and personality and will blend seamlessly within the overall colour scheme of a room. Take note of any patterns, colours and themes that catch your eye and particularly stand out to you.
Once you have gathered some ideas, begin your search by browsing through various sources for further inspiration before beginning to gather samples or swatches to match against your existing interior. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and textures to find your perfect match.
Read the Instructions Carefully
In order to guarantee a smooth and problem-free job, it is vital that you carefully read the instructions provided with your wallpaper before starting any work. Each type of wallpaper comes with its own unique guidelines, which specify important details such as water resistance.
Disregarding or overlooking instructions could result in costly errors, wasted efforts, and an outcome far from the one that you desired. Following them exactly as they are set out will ensure a seamless and successful installation process.
Prepare Your Walls
As with all DIY projects, preparation is key. When hanging wallpaper, preparing your walls is just as important as the installation. Remove any existing wallpaper and smooth the wall surface using sandpaper or a paint scraper to eliminate any loose paint and repair any holes or imperfections as needed.
Once you have followed these steps, a great idea is to paint your wall the base colour of the paper (just in case any seams show through). Seal the walls with an oil-based primer followed by a coat of wallpaper primer as this will make both the installation and eventual removal go as smoothly as possible.
Take Precise Measurements
Now your wall is prepped, it is time to start take measurements ready to install your wallpaper. Start by identifying the height and width of the wall you plan to cover - use a metal tape measure for precise measurements and ensure it is straight and taut against the wall.
It is also very worthwhile to create plumb lines on your wall to ensure that each piece of wallpaper is hung straight and level. To do this, draw a straight vertical line down the wall, marking where the first panel will go. It is best to start on the left of the wall and work to the right unless your design has a focal point.
Cut the Wallpaper to Size
Think carefully about how you will need to hang your wallpaper in the designated space, especially if it is patterned, and how you can make it look as seamless as possible. Always map out the best and most logical layout for the room before you actually start cutting and hanging.
Measure the length for each strip of wallpaper, ensuring it is slightly longer than the height of the wall to allow for trimming. Use a sharp breakaway knife or scissors to make straight cuts along the length, and for best results, use a straight edge to ensure they are clean and precise. If your wallpaper is patterned, be mindful of pattern alignment and match it up as you cut each strip.
Apply Wallpaper Paste
There are several methods for applying adhesive and wallpaper paste. Traditional wallpaper will require paste, and a process referred to as 'booking' that allows the paste to soak into the paper. However, some wallpaper is best hung after pasting the wall, and others don't require paste at all. Which method you choose will depend on the type of wallpaper and the instructions that come with it, but here is a rundown of each method:
Booking Wallpaper
Apply paste evenly of the whole surface of your cut wallpaper piece from one end to the middle. Fold the pasted side onto itself, leaving a few inches of exposed, pasted paper. Finish the other half and fold it back towards the middle up to the other folded edge. Leave it to soak into the paper for around three minutes.
Pasting the Wall
If you are applying wallpaper paste directly to the wall, there is no need to follow the booking process. Instead, cover the wall with the paste, then hang the wallpaper on top.
Water-Based Adhesive
For wallpapers with a water-activated adhesive, soak the wallpaper in water, then follow the booking process before hanging it on the wall. Always check the instructions that come with the wallpaper when in doubt.
Hang Your Wallpaper
With the adhesive properly applied and activated, you are ready to begin hanging your wallpaper! Start by carefully positioning the top of the wallpaper strip against the wall, leaving a slight overlap at the ceiling. Make sure that as you go along, you are smoothing out any air bubbles or wrinkles, working from the centre outward.
Take care to align the edges of the wallpaper with the corners and any adjacent strips to ensure a seamless finish. Trim any excess wallpaper at the top and bottom edges using a sharp utility knife or scissors, leaving a small overlap for accuracy. Repeat this process for each strip, taking care to match patterns if applicable.
Add the Finishing Touches and Clean Up
Cleaning up after hanging wallpaper is essential for creating a tidy, polished, and finished look. Start by carefully removing any excess adhesive from the wallpaper using a damp cloth, paying special attention to seams and edges where it may have seeped out. Be gentle to avoid damaging the wallpaper, particularly if it is delicate or textured.
Once the wallpaper is clean and dry and all tools are removed, you can begin to replace any furniture or fixtures that were temporarily removed during the installation process. Just take care not to disturb the newly hung wallpaper and undo all of your efforts - leave it until it is completely dry.
Final Thoughts
With patience and attention to detail you can rest assured that your wallpaper installation will be a smooth process with stunning results. If you follow the right steps and take the appropriate care, hanging wallpaper can be a rewarding process that completely transforms your space!
PAT GILHAM: Pat Gilham has worked as a self-employed painter and decorator for over 20 years and specialises in domestic home decorating projects. He has also worked closely with MyJobQuote over the past 4 years to provide expert commentary and insights, and has been published in a range of leading industry publications and news outlets.
MyJobQuote is one of the UK's top trades matching sites that helps individuals find a reputable tradesperson in their local area.
MyJobQuote also has a wide range of experts with extensive knowledge in interior design, cleaning, gardening, property, construction and more. MyJobQuote's experts have been featured in over 700 publications, including Woman and Home, Grand Designs, The Times, House Beautiful, BBC News and more.