Based on the provided reference, applying wallpaper at home involves ensuring proper alignment, leaving sufficient overhang for trimming, and adhering it to the wall. Here's a breakdown of the process, assuming you've already prepped your walls (cleaning, priming, etc.):
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Preparation is Key: Ensure your walls are smooth, clean, and primed. Remove any old wallpaper, repair any imperfections, and apply a wallpaper primer. This helps the new wallpaper adhere properly and prevents moisture damage.
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Measure and Cut: Measure the height of your wall. Add a few inches to both the top and bottom to allow for trimming. Cut the first strip of wallpaper according to your measurements. This extra overhang allows for adjustments and precise cuts along the baseboard and ceiling.
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Apply Adhesive (if needed): Depending on the type of wallpaper (pre-pasted or unpasted), you'll either activate the adhesive with water (pre-pasted) or apply wallpaper paste to the back of the paper (unpasted). Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. For pre-pasted, soak the wallpaper strip in water for the recommended time. For unpasted, apply paste evenly, ensuring you cover the edges.
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Book the Wallpaper: After applying adhesive (or activating it), "book" the wallpaper by folding the pasted sides together, paste-to-paste, being careful not to crease it. This allows the paste to activate fully and keeps it from drying out too quickly. Let it sit for the manufacturer's recommended time.
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Position the First Strip: Carefully unfold the top portion of the booked wallpaper and align it with the top corner of the wall. Leave the overhang that you measured earlier.
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Apply the Wallpaper: Smooth the wallpaper onto the wall using a smoothing brush or a plastic smoother. Start from the center and work your way outwards, removing any air bubbles.
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Trim the Excess: Use a sharp utility knife and a straight edge (like a metal ruler or a wide putty knife) to trim the excess wallpaper at the top and bottom. Ensure a clean, straight cut.
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Repeat for Subsequent Strips: Repeat steps 2-7 for the remaining strips of wallpaper. Carefully align the patterns of each strip as you apply them. Use a seam roller to ensure tight seams between the strips.
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Clean Up: Wipe off any excess paste from the seams and the wall surface with a damp sponge.
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Finishing Touches: After the wallpaper has dried completely, inspect for any imperfections and make any necessary touch-ups.
