Lining a wall with lining paper creates a smooth, even surface that's perfect for painting or wallpapering. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Gather Your Materials and Tools
Make sure you have everything you need before you start. This includes:
- Lining paper
- Lining paper paste
- Paste brush or roller
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Sharp knife or scissors
- Smoothing brush or plastic smoother
- Seam roller
- Plumb bob or spirit level
- Paste table (optional but recommended)
- Damp sponge
- Ladder or step stool (if needed)
2. Prepare the Walls
Proper wall preparation is crucial for a good finish.
- Clean the walls: Remove any dust, dirt, grease, or loose paint. Wash the walls with sugar soap and rinse with clean water.
- Fill any holes or cracks: Use filler to repair any imperfections and allow it to dry completely. Sand the filled areas smooth.
- Remove obstructions: Take down any picture hooks, light switch covers, or other fixtures.
- Size porous walls: If your walls are very porous, apply a thin coat of diluted lining paper paste or a specialist wall size to improve adhesion.
3. Apply Wall Primer (Optional)
Applying a primer helps the lining paper adhere better and prevents the adhesive from being absorbed into the wall. Use a primer specifically designed for wallpapering.
4. Measure and Cut the Lining Paper
Accurate measuring and cutting will save you time and waste.
- Measure the height of the wall: Measure from the top of the skirting board to the ceiling in several places, as walls aren't always perfectly even. Add an extra 5-10cm (2-4 inches) to both the top and bottom for trimming (this is known as "overlap").
- Cut the first strip: Using your measurements, cut the first strip of lining paper.
- Use the first strip as a template: Lay the first strip on your paste table and use it as a template to cut the remaining strips. Make sure to account for any pattern matching if you're using patterned lining paper (although most lining papers are plain). Number the back of each strip lightly in pencil, indicating the order in which they will be hung.
5. Apply the Paste
Even and thorough pasting is essential.
- Place the first strip face down on your paste table.
- Apply the paste: Using a paste brush or roller, apply the lining paper paste evenly to the back of the paper. Start in the middle and work your way out to the edges. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges.
- Book the paper: Fold the pasted strip in half, paste-side to paste-side, carefully aligning the edges. This is called "booking." This prevents the paste from drying out too quickly and allows the paper to expand. Let it book for the manufacturer's recommended time (usually 5-10 minutes). Be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions on the paste and paper.
- Paste subsequent strips: Repeat the pasting and booking process for each strip of lining paper.
6. Hang the Lining Paper
Take your time and ensure accurate placement.
- Position the first strip: Carefully unfold the top half of the first strip. Align the top edge with the ceiling, leaving the overlap for trimming. Use a plumb bob or spirit level to ensure the strip is perfectly vertical.
- Smooth the paper: Gently smooth the paper onto the wall using a smoothing brush or plastic smoother, working from the center outwards to remove any air bubbles or creases. Be careful not to stretch or tear the paper.
- Unfold the bottom half: Unfold the bottom half of the strip and repeat the smoothing process.
- Trim the excess: Using a sharp knife and a trimming knife or wide scraper, trim the excess paper at the top and bottom, following the line of the ceiling and skirting board.
- Hang subsequent strips: Repeat the process for the remaining strips, carefully butting the edges together. Avoid overlapping the strips.
- Roll the seams: Use a seam roller to firmly press the edges together, creating a tight, invisible seam.
- Wipe away excess paste: Use a damp sponge to wipe away any excess paste from the surface of the paper and the surrounding areas.
7. Drying and Finishing
Allow the lining paper to dry completely before painting or wallpapering.
- Allow to dry: Let the lining paper dry naturally for 24-48 hours. Avoid drafts and excessive heat, which can cause the paper to shrink or peel.
- Inspect the seams: Once the paper is dry, inspect the seams for any gaps or imperfections. If necessary, use a seam filler to fill any gaps and smooth them out.
- Paint or wallpaper: Once the lining paper is completely dry, you can paint or wallpaper over it.
