Yes, you absolutely can use a roller to paste wallpaper, and according to expert advice, the easiest way to do it is to use a roller.
Using a roller is a highly effective and widely recommended method for applying paste to the back of wallpaper or directly onto the wall, depending on the type of wallpaper you are using. This technique helps ensure even coverage, which is crucial for achieving a smooth, bubble-free finish on your walls.
Why Use a Roller for Wallpaper Paste?
Employing a roller offers several key advantages when tackling a wallpapering project:
- Even Coverage: Rollers distribute paste uniformly across the surface, preventing thin spots or excessive build-up.
- Efficiency: Covering large areas is significantly faster with a roller compared to a brush.
- Control: A roller allows for precise application, especially when managing edges.
Practical Tips for Pasting with a Roller
Based on best practices, here’s a crucial tip for using a roller when pasting:
- Paste Wider Than the Paper: When pasting the wall, or the paper itself if it's paste-the-paper type, paste a couple of centimetres wider than the width of the wallpaper to avoid pasting over the previous drop. This slight overlap in paste ensures the edge of the new strip adheres perfectly to the wall without leaving unpasted gaps or smearing paste onto the already hung paper.
Types of Wallpaper Pasting
It's important to know that the process of applying paste varies depending on the wallpaper type:
- Paste-the-Paper: You apply the paste directly to the back of the wallpaper sheet using a roller.
- Paste-the-Wall: You apply the paste directly onto the wall surface using a roller before hanging the dry wallpaper sheet. This is often considered simpler as it's less messy and allows the paper to be repositioned more easily.
- Pre-Pasted: These wallpapers come with a dried adhesive already on the back. You activate the paste by soaking the paper in water. No separate paste or roller is typically needed for paste application itself, although a small roller can be useful for smoothing the hung paper.
Always check the manufacturer's instructions that come with your specific wallpaper to confirm the correct pasting method.
Using the right tools and techniques, such as a roller for paste application, is fundamental to achieving professional-looking results when wallpapering your home. For more detailed guides, you might find resources like this wallpapering guide helpful (replace with a real link if available).
Essential Tools for Wallpapering
Beyond just the roller for paste, a successful wallpapering project requires a few other key tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Paste Roller | Applying paste evenly (our main topic!) |
| Wallpaper Paste | The adhesive itself |
| Smoothing Tool | Removing bubbles and creases (e.g., smoother) |
| Utility Knife & Blades | Trimming excess paper |
| Measuring Tape | Accurate cutting and hanging |
| Level/Plumb Line | Ensuring vertical alignment |
By preparing your tools and understanding the pasting process, you can confidently use a roller to achieve a smooth, beautiful wallpaper finish.
