Here is a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to hang wallpaper:
Preparation
- Make sure the walls are clean, dry, smooth, and healthy. If needed, sand down any gloss or silk paint and apply a universal primer for better adhesion. Wash matt painted walls with a cleaning product containing baking soda and allow to dry for 24 hours.
- Move furniture to the center of the room and cover it, along with the floor, with dust sheets to protect against mess.
- Check that all wallpaper rolls have matching batch numbers and shade codes for consistency.
Tools Needed
- Tape measure, level or plumb line, pencil, ruler or spirit level.
- Utility knife, wallpaper brush, step ladder.
- Adhesive paste or specialized wallpaper paste (depending on wallpaper type).
- Sponge or sponge roller.
- Protective gloves.
Cutting and Positioning
- Measure the height of the wall and cut the wallpaper strips with an extra 5-10 cm for trimming.
- Use a plumb line to draw a vertical straight line on the wall to start hanging the first strip perfectly straight.
Applying Paste and Hanging Wallpaper
- For "paste the paper" wallpaper: Apply adhesive evenly on the back of the wallpaper strip, fold it carefully, and let it soak as per instructions.
- For "paste the wall" wallpaper: Apply adhesive directly on the wall using a roller.
- Position the first strip at the top of the wall, aligning its edge with the vertical line. Leave extra overhang at ceiling and base for trimming.
- Smooth the wallpaper down using a firm, damp sponge or wallpaper brush from the center outwards to remove bubbles and wrinkles.
- For sockets or switches, cut a cross-shaped opening after hanging, then trim the excess and smooth it before reattaching covers.
Trimming and Finishing
- Trim excess wallpaper at the top and bottom with a sharp knife.
- Continue hanging strips side by side, matching the pattern and butting edges tightly.
- Wipe away any excess paste with a damp sponge immediately.
These steps cover the major techniques and tips to hang wallpaper effectively, whether paste-the-paper or paste-the-wall types, providing a smooth and professional finish.
