A poorly installed wallpaper pattern can disrupt the design, making a room look uneven and unpolished. These mistakes can be frustrating for homeowners, and often result in wasted materials and additional work.
We get it. Sticking wallpaper can be challenging, especially if it is your first time. The good news is that proper guidance can make the process much easier.
This step-by-step guide on how to hang wallpaper can help you achieve a seamless finish, from preparing the walls to smoothing the final strip, ensuring straight lines and a professional look.
What Are Wallpapers?
Wallpapers are decorative materials designed to cover walls and add style and personality to any room. They come in a variety of textures, patterns, and materials.
Whether you prefer a bold floral wallpaper pattern or a subtle design repeat, wallpapers can transform your space.
Wallpapers not only cover walls but also protect surfaces from minor damage. Many are also washable and come in rolls or sheets, making them a practical choice for busy rooms.
Want to install a wallpaper in your space? Before selecting the first pattern that catches your eyes, consider factors like pattern match and how much you will need to cover your walls.
Understanding Wallpaper Pattern Repeats
Wallpaper pattern repeats refer to the vertical distance between identical points in a design. This measurement is key when matching patterns across strips.
There are three main types of pattern repeats to consider when hanging wallpaper:
- Random or Free Match: These patterns do not require precise alignment at the seams. They offer flexibility and can help avoid excess wallpaper waste.
- Straight Match: For these patterns, each strip must align horizontally with the previous one. A straight match needs careful attention using a straight edge to maintain a straight line.
- Drop or Offset Match: With drop matches, every second strip must be shifted or dropped by a set amount. This method requires double-checking alignment and using a plumb line to ensure consistency.
Understanding these repeats helps you measure correctly, trim with a clean cut, and determine how much wallpaper you need. It also prevents the use of wallpaper from a different batch or different batch number, which might not match the pattern.
1. Preparing Your Walls
Proper wall preparation is essential for a smooth wallpaper application. Start by cleaning the walls with a damp cloth to remove dust and grease, then allow them to dry completely.
Inspect the surface for cracks or holes. Fill any imperfections with spackle and sand them for a smooth finish. A well-prepared surface ensures that the paste bonds properly and that your wallpaper will not show air bubbles.
Finally, apply a primer or sizing solution. Doing so helps the wallpaper stick evenly and prevents peeling or stretching during installation. A little extra time in preparation can save you trouble later.
2. Measuring and Cutting Wallpaper
Accurate measurements are key to a successful installation. Begin by measuring the height and width of your walls. Factor in pattern repeats and add extra wallpaper for trimming at the top and bottom.
Lay the wallpaper on a clean, flat surface. Then, take a straight edge and pencil to mark your cut lines. Note the wallpaper label and, if needed, the batch number so that subsequent strips come from the same batch.
Always use a sharp blade for a clean cut. Double-check your measurements and alignment before cutting strips. This step helps you match patterns perfectly and avoid mistakes that could leave excess wallpaper hanging.
3. Applying Adhesive
Using the correct adhesive is crucial for hanging wallpaper securely. There are three main types of wallpaper adhesives:
- Pre-Pasted Wallpaper: Comes with adhesive already applied and just needs activation with water.
- Paste-the-Wall Wallpaper: Apply the adhesive directly on the wall before hanging the paper.
- Paste-the-Paper Wallpaper: Spread glue evenly on the back of each strip before installation.
Regardless of the type you choose, remember to follow the wallpaper label instructions carefully.
In addition, use a brush or roller to spread the adhesive evenly, and allow it to become tacky. This ensures the paste bonds the wallpaper to your walls without air bubbles or wrinkles.
4. Hanging the First Strip
The first strip sets the foundation for the entire installation. Start by drawing a vertical guideline on your wall using a plumb line or spirit level. This helps ensure a straight match.
Position the first strip along this guideline, leaving a small amount of excess wallpaper at the top and bottom for trimming.
Then, smooth the strip from the center outward to remove air bubbles and create a straight edge. Getting the first strip right is key to a successful pattern match on subsequent strips.
5. Matching Patterns
Aligning wallpaper patterns requires precision. Start at a focal point, such as the main wall, and work outward. Before hanging each subsequent strip, hold it next to the previous one and double check your pattern match.
During this step, make sure that the straight match or drop matches line up perfectly. If you notice any misalignment, adjust the wallpaper before it sticks.
A small error in one strip can affect the overall look, so take your time to match patterns carefully. Let your creative juices flow, but avoid stretching the paper as you align the design repeats.
6. Smoothing and Trimming
After hanging the wallpaper, smooth it from the center outward to push out any air bubbles. Use a smoothing tool or brush to achieve an even finish.
Then, trim the excess wallpaper at the top and bottom. Use a straight edge and a sharp utility knife to make a clean cut. This careful trimming ensures a neat finish along the straight line, giving your room a professional look.
7. Dealing With Obstacles
Sometimes, you will need to work around windows, doors, or electrical outlets, which can make the process slightly more complicated.
One option is to measure carefully and cut the wallpaper slightly larger than the obstacle. Then, make relief cuts to help the paper lay flat, and use a straight edge and utility knife to trim around these obstacles.
To avoid accidents, turn off the power to outlets and switches first. For these types of obstacles, making an “X” cut over the opening works best. This allows you to rehang or adjust the wallpaper without damaging the pattern match.
8. Final Touches
Once the wallpaper is up, inspect the entire surface for any issues. Press down any loose edges and smooth out any remaining air bubbles.
Wipe the wallpaper gently with a damp cloth to remove excess adhesive. Avoid harsh cleaners that might damage the wallpaper’s finish.
If needed, make small trims to perfect the clean cut. These final steps ensure that your wallpaper looks great and that the pattern repeats and matches patterns remain consistent throughout the room.
Key Takeaways on How To Line Up Wallpaper
Correctly lining up wallpaper can save you a world of trouble. Here is a quick recap on how to achieve a flawless finish:
- Clean and prime your walls properly before you begin.
- Measure accurately and note details like the wallpaper label and batch number to ensure a straight match.
- Use tools like a plumb line, spirit level, and straight edge to guide your installation.
- Smooth out air bubbles and trim excess wallpaper for a clean cut.
- Take extra care with pattern repeats, drop matches, and design repeats to achieve a professional finish.
Whether you paste, stick, or roll out your paper, following these steps will help you achieve a perfect pattern match and a smooth, professional look for your room.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In this section, we answer common questions about how to line up wallpaper.
Can Wallpaper Be Used in High-Moisture Areas Like Bathrooms?
Yes, wallpaper can be used in bathrooms. However, it is crucial to choose vinyl wallpaper, which resists moisture and is easier to clean. Proper ventilation is also key to avoid peeling and mold growth.
What Should I Do if Air Bubbles Form Under the Wallpaper?\
If air bubbles appear, gently lift the wallpaper from the bottom to release the trapped air. Use a smoothing tool or brush to press the paper back down. For tiny bubbles, you can use a needle to create a small pinhole and smooth the area carefully without stretching the wallpaper.
Can I Apply New Wallpaper Over Existing Wallpaper?
It is best to remove the old wallpaper before hanging new wallpaper. Sticking wallpaper over existing wallpaper can cause adhesion issues. If removal is not possible, ensure the old wallpaper is clean, dry, and securely attached. Using a wallpaper primer can also help improve adhesion.