Wallpapering a feature wall with a fireplace requires careful cutting and precise application around the fireplace surround. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a professional finish:
Steps for Wallpapering Around a Fireplace
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Prepare the Wall: Before you begin, make sure the feature wall is clean, dry, and smooth. Fill any holes or imperfections with filler and sand it down. Apply a wallpaper primer to the wall for better adhesion.
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Measure and Cut the Wallpaper: Measure the height of the wall and add a few inches extra to the top and bottom for trimming. Cut your first strip of wallpaper.
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Apply Wallpaper Paste (if needed): If your wallpaper is not pre-pasted, apply wallpaper paste evenly to the back of the strip. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for pasting and booking (folding the pasted sides together).
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Position the Wallpaper: Carefully position the top of the wallpaper strip against the ceiling, leaving the extra inches for trimming. Ensure the wallpaper is straight using a plumb bob or level.
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Smooth the Wallpaper: Use a smoothing brush or plastic smoother to gently press the wallpaper onto the wall, working from the center outwards. Remove any air bubbles.
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Address the Fireplace: This is the critical step. When you reach the fireplace surround:
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Overlap the Fireplace: Allow the wallpaper to overlap the fireplace surround. Don't try to cut it perfectly on the wall.
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Make Diagonal Cuts: With the wallpaper overlapping the fireplace, carefully make a diagonal cut in the excess paper, starting from the edge of the paper towards the corner of the fireplace mantel or surround. This allows you to work around the obstruction.
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Cut Towards the Corner: Continue cutting carefully towards the corner of the mantel shelf (if present) or the outer edge of the fireplace surround.
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Tuck and Crease: Tuck the wallpaper behind the surround, and crease it firmly along the edge of the fireplace surround. This will create a guideline for cutting.
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Trim the Wallpaper: Using a sharp utility knife or trimming knife and a straight edge, carefully trim the wallpaper along the crease. Ensure a clean, straight cut for a seamless finish.
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Repeat for Remaining Strips: Continue applying the remaining strips of wallpaper, matching the pattern and repeating the process around the fireplace for each strip that intersects it.
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Clean Up: Wipe away any excess paste with a damp sponge.
Tips for Success
- Sharp Blade is Key: Use a fresh, sharp blade in your utility knife for clean cuts. Change the blade frequently.
- Patience is Essential: Don't rush the process, especially when working around the fireplace.
- Pattern Matching: Pay close attention to pattern matching when applying subsequent strips of wallpaper.
- Consider a Professional: If you are uncomfortable with this process, consider hiring a professional wallpaper installer.
