Putting up wallpaper can transform a room! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
1. Preparation is Key
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Measure the Room: Use a tape measure to determine the width and height of each wall. This will help you calculate how much wallpaper you need. Always buy a little extra to account for pattern matching and mistakes.
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Gather Your Supplies: You'll need:
- Wallpaper
- Wallpaper paste (if not pre-pasted)
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Smoothing brush or plastic smoother
- Seam roller
- Plumb bob or level
- Utility knife or sharp razor blade
- Sponge and bucket of clean water
- Wallpaper tray (for paste)
- Drop cloths
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Prepare the Walls: This is crucial for a smooth finish.
- Remove any existing wallpaper.
- Clean the walls thoroughly with a sponge and mild detergent to remove dirt, grease, and grime.
- Repair any holes or cracks with spackle or patching compound. Sand smooth once dry.
- Prime the walls with a wall-covering primer. This will help the wallpaper adhere properly and prevent moisture damage. Let dry completely.
2. Wallpaper Application
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Lay Out the Wallpaper: On a clean, flat surface (like a large table or the floor covered with a drop cloth), unroll the wallpaper and cut the first strip, adding a few inches of extra length at the top and bottom. Make sure to match the pattern when cutting subsequent strips. Number the back of each strip lightly with a pencil to keep them in order.
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Dampen or Paste the Wallpaper: Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Pre-pasted wallpaper: Moisten the back of the wallpaper with water using a sponge or wallpaper tray.
- Non-pasted wallpaper: Apply wallpaper paste evenly to the back of the strip using a brush or roller. Be sure to get the edges.
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Book the Wallpaper: Fold the pasted sides of the wallpaper strip together, paste-to-paste, being careful not to crease the wallpaper. This process, called "booking," allows the paste to activate and prevents the wallpaper from drying out too quickly. The folds should be loose. Let the wallpaper book for the time recommended by the manufacturer (usually a few minutes).
3. Hanging the Wallpaper
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Strike a Plumb Line: Use a plumb bob or level to draw a vertical line on the wall. This will serve as a guide for the first strip of wallpaper. Accuracy here is essential; a crooked first strip will throw off the rest of the installation.
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Apply the First Panel:
- Carefully unfold the top half of the booked wallpaper strip.
- Align the top edge of the wallpaper with the ceiling and the side edge with the plumb line.
- Press the wallpaper onto the wall, using a smoothing brush or plastic smoother to work out any air bubbles. Start at the center and move towards the edges.
- Unfold the bottom half of the wallpaper and repeat the smoothing process.
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Trim Excess Wallpaper: Use a utility knife or sharp razor blade to trim the excess wallpaper at the top and bottom, using a metal ruler or smoothing tool as a guide.
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Seam Roller: Use a seam roller to firmly press the seams between strips of wallpaper. Avoid excessive pressure, which could damage the wallpaper.
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Wipe Away Excess Paste: Use a damp sponge to wipe away any excess paste from the wallpaper surface and trim areas.
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Repeat: Repeat the process for the remaining strips of wallpaper, carefully matching the pattern and ensuring each strip is aligned correctly.
4. Final Touches
- Inspect the finished walls for any imperfections, such as air bubbles or loose seams. Correct them as needed.
- Allow the wallpaper to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Clean up your tools and materials.
By following these steps, you can successfully put wallpaper on your house and transform your living space. Remember to take your time and pay attention to detail for the best results.
