what do you need to wallpaper a wall

The essentials that you will need for wallpapering are:

• Wallpaper (obviously) - but enough of it. ...
• Wallpaper paste. ...
• Wallpaper application brush. ...
• A plumb line measuring tool. ...
• A sharp wallpaper trimming knife or snap blade and a pair of scissors. ...
• Tape measure and a pencil.
• A couple of clean cloths for smoothing down the wallpaper onto the wall.
• A wallpapering table (these are around £10 in DIY stores)

Full Answer

What do you put on walls before wallpapering?

A coat of oil-base wall primer is probably the most popular sealer. You can also use a special glue size called wallpaper primer/sealer to prime the walls. Either of these primers can be applied, like paint, with a brush or roller.

How do you prepare a wall for wallpapering?

Clean your walls Once you've removed any wallcoverings and filled any imperfections, it's a good idea to give your wall a dust down and vacuum the room to ensure all dust and dirt particles are removed. You can clean your walls down with sugar soap to remove grease and dirt.

How do you stick wallpaper to the wall?

0:041:38Self Adhesive Wallpaper - How to apply - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMaking sure it's straight and even peel back about 30 centimeters at a time smoothing. As you goMoreMaking sure it's straight and even peel back about 30 centimeters at a time smoothing. As you go until you reach the bottom smooth out any bubbles with a wallpaper brush for larger bubbles lift.

How do you hang wallpaper for beginners?

1:403:20How to Start Hanging Wallpaper - Tips & Advice - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUsing a pasting brush apply the paste from the center out in a crisscross. Action fold the ends ofMoreUsing a pasting brush apply the paste from the center out in a crisscross. Action fold the ends of the sheet into the center to make it easier to handle and avoid getting pasted everywhere.

Is wallpapering harder than painting?

It is typically faster to paint a room than to install wallpaper. Wallpaper installation is a longer process for most. Applying paste to the wallpaper usually makes the process more time consuming, however there are wallpaper options such as peel and stick wallpaper that are much easier and quicker to install.

Is wallpapering easier than painting?

Wallpapering can be a bit more forgiving, as it can cover small nail holes and marks in the spackle in a way that paint won't. Unfortunately there are no shortcuts when it comes to preparing your walls, if you want good results, preparation is extremely important.

Do I need glue for wallpaper?

Wallpapers and wallpaper paste go hand in hand. But some special wallpaper materials require specific glues or pastes. The surface, too, plays a significant role, especially as wallpaper isn't always necessarily applied to walls.

Do I need adhesive for wallpaper?

Traditional wallpaper doesn't come prepared with adhesive, so you have to mix your own paste before you can hang it. Most non-pasted paper will come with a 'Suggested Paste' and instructions on how to make it. You can apply the paste to the wallpaper using a roller, then hang the paper on the walls.

What type of glue is used for wallpaper?

Wallpaper adhesive or wallpaper paste is a specific adhesive, based on modified starch, methylcellulose, or clay used to fix wallpaper to walls.

Is wallpapering difficult?

Hanging wallpaper isn't as complicated as it might seem thanks to new techniques like “paste the wall” wallpaper. This has been made simpler because there's no need to apply the paste to the wallpaper, fold it and let it soak in before hanging it.

Do you cut wallpaper when wet or dry?

Dry wallpaper is naturally stiffer, and easier to cut with scissors or a snap-blade knife. The reason is that dry wallpaper has more resistance to the sharpened edge of the blade, which allows the cut to be smooth and straight.

Do you soak wallpaper before hanging?

Soak for the amount of time recommended in the manufacturer's hanging instructions, usually 30 seconds*. Slowly lift and unroll the paper onto a work table, making sure the paste is completely wet. Gently fold both ends, paste side in, towards the center of the strip, without creasing the folds.

Do you need to prep a wall for wallpaper?

The most important step before applying a primer and hanging wallpaper is to make sure that the wall surface is clean, dry and sound. Always remember that you will be using a water-based adhesive to hang the wallpaper which puts stress on the wall surface as the adhesive cures and the wallpaper shrinks or contracts.

Does a wall need to be plastered before wallpapering?

New plaster soaks up liquid, which makes it very difficult to put up wallpaper without treating the plaster. If you paste wallpaper and try to put it up without sizing/sealing, the wallpaper will almost instantly stick and stay in position, making it very difficult to move into position.

Do you need to seal walls before wallpapering?

Sealing or sizing The walls must be sealed prior to any wallpaper or lining paper going on top. Filler is very dry and if you try to put wallpaper or lining paper on very dry walls, you will have problems. The best solution for this is to use the paste for putting up the wallcovering.

Do I need to paste the wall before wallpapering?

Applying adhesive to the back of the paper is the traditional installation method for wallpaper. Wallcoverings manufactured with paper, cotton, or vinyl substrates can absorb moisture and expand when pasted. If applied directly to the wall, the material might bubble and wrinkle.

How to lay out a wall?

A. Use a roll to lay out the wall. Use a full roll of paper as a guide to lay out the room. Butt a roll into the corner where you plan to start, and make a pencil mark on the wall at the edge of the roll. Slide the roll down to that mark, and make another pencil mark at the other edge of the roll. Keep doing this until you know where every seam is ...

How to make a corner wall?

You’ll need to create a seam at every inside corner to make the next panel plumb. The first panel installed in a corner should be overlapped onto the adjacent wall at least 1/8 in. When working your way into a corner, measure over from the last panel to the corner at the top, middle and bottom. Then cut the corner panel 1/8 in. longer than the longest of the three measurements. You can use the leftover piece to start the new wall, but you may need to cut it at a slight angle to accommodate a crooked corner. Some wallpaper won’t stick to other wallpaper, so run a small bead of seam adhesive in the corner before overlapping the second piece.

How many poodles can fit on a wall?

If you’re measuring a room with 8-ft. walls and the paper you’re hanging has a pink poodle that repeats every 54 in., only two poodles will fit on each length of panel.

How to keep edges from curling?

Set your edges with a roller. Don’t press too hard and squeeze out too much adhesive. To keep the edges from curling, you need to set them with a roller. But the same rule that applies to the smoother applies to the roller: Don’t press too hard or you’ll squeeze out too much adhesive.

How to get paper straight?

The longer the paper, the easier it is to get straight. Cut a bunch of pieces of paper at once, and book several at the same time. Set each roll in front of the wall where it’s going to be hung. If you’re a beginner, set them in a plastic bag to give you more time to work with them.

How many thirds of paper should you fold?

Fold the paper so that when you unfold it, you’ll be working with two-thirds of the panel.

Why is it important to use wall size?

Using wall size will help the paper adhere to the wall and reduce the chance that the paper will shrink. It also makes it easier to remove the paper when the time comes.

How to apply wallpaper to a wall?

Create a smooth, clean canvas, where you will apply the wallpaper. Using the drywall compound, fill in any edges or uneven areas. You can use your putty knife at this point to fill the areas which need compound; allow up to 24-hours for the putty to dry.

How long does it take to wallpaper a room?

It should not require more than 2-5 days in most cases to wallpaper an entire room in the home. You will need at least 2 days since you should initially allow the wall to settle for 24 hours before you begin the application process.

How to trim wallpaper around corners?

If there is excess wallpaper around the edges or corners, use your utility knife to trim it. This will create the smooth, detailed look and finishes throughout the room, without having to see those imperfections or foldovers on the wall. It will also prevent overlapping or a rugged texture/appearance, once the work is completed.

Do you need to use quality adhesive on paper?

It is also important that you use a quality adhesive. You don't want the paper to crack, or for it to curl off the walls at any time. If the adhesive is not properly applied, or if you aren't using a quality adhesive base, this is also going to show itself over time.

Can you make mistakes when painting a wall?

How To Painting & Decorating. Applying wallpaper to a wall may seem self-explanatory, which, for the most part, it is. With this being said, that doesn't mean you can't make errors, especially if you aren't careful with measuring, placement, and cutting, if you are going to cut the wallpaper down to size. So, prior to getting started and simply ...

Can you hang wallpaper on a surface?

Hanging wallpaper isn't as simple as applying a few films of wallpaper onto a surface. If you are ready to apply new wallpaper, you can follow this simple guide which will help you through the process, and ensure the work is done quickly and results look their best once you're finished.

Gather Tools and Materials

Being organized is an important part of every wallpaper project. In addition to the wallpaper, you'll also need several other supplies to do the best possible job. Here's a list of materials and tools:

Determine How Much Wallpaper You Need

Wallpaper rolls come in different sizes. Determining how many rolls you'll need depends on the height and width of the wall or surface you're covering. Use this handy wallpaper calculator to determine the exact number of rolls you need for your project.

Prepare the Surface

Before you hang your wallpaper, you'll need to make sure the wall or surface is prepared. The paper won't adhere properly if there is grime or dirt. Use a sponge or cloth and a gentle cleanser and clean thoroughly. Allow to dry.

Cut Strips and Start Hanging from the Top

Measure and cut strips of wallpaper with your razor blade to fit the height of the wall. Peel about 12 inches of the backing on a strip, line up the top of the paper at the ceiling, then slowly peel and stick the paper down the wall.

Finish with a Plastic Smoother

As you hang the wallpaper, air can get trapped between the back of the paper and the surface. Use a plastic smoother to get rid of the air bubbles and create an even look.

More Peel and Stick Wallpaper Ideas

Smarten up a book case. Put a bold peel and stick wallpaper design behind its shelves.

How to hang wallpaper on a wall?

Line up the paper with the line you drew on the wall. Begin at the ceiling, leaving about 2 inches (5.08 cm) hanging over the top and below the floor. Carefully line up the wallpaper and press firmly into the wall to secure it.

What to use to remove wallpaper?

If the wallpaper is older, it may be more tenacious and require that you use a belt sander to help remove the wallpaper and adhesive, depending on the wall underneath.

What is the best wallpaper to hang in a bathroom?

Vinyl wallpaper is the most common variety, and is easy to hang and remove. Canvas-backed vinyl paper is moisture-resistent and versatile, making it very appropriate for hanging in bathrooms and basements. It's generally prepped with adhesive, which means it's easy to hang and handle.

What is embossed wallpaper?

Embossed wallpaper is textured and patterned, making it ideal for covering the imperfections in walls. It's also easy to paint over and lined with adhesive, which means it'll be versatile for years to come.

How to hang patterned wallpaper?

To line them up, start at a middle point to get them as close as possible and trim off the excess at the top and bottom. Trim the top and bottom of each piece of paper.

How to get wrinkles out of paper?

If you do create some wrinkles inadvertently, carefully pull a piece of the paper away from the wall until you reach the wrinkle, and press it out slowly.

How to protect electrical outlets?

To protect the outlets and yourself, it's best to remove the panels to ensure for a clean-looking paper installation, and to tape over the outlets to protect them. Put small pieces of tape over the outlets and switches, enough to cover them .

Why is it important to install wallpaper?

When installing any shiny or metallic materials it is especially important to get the walls as smooth as possible. Other wallpapers are less critical in proportion to how heavy their texture is and how busy the pattern. Do not assume the wallpaper by itself will make any imperfections go away. Contact Us.

What is wallpaper primer?

Wallpaper Primers. Wallpaper paste is designed to sit on top of the wall to work best. Average latex paint does not allow for this to happen. Something has to be rolled over the latex paint in order to create a barrier between the paint and the wallpaper.

How to see imperfections in a wall?

You can also dim the lights in the room and shine a bright work light closely up down and along the wall to create as many shadows as possible to see any imperfections in a wall.

Can I use a primer on wallpaper?

This is a difficult surface primer for use on slick and unusual surfaces. It works well for installing wallpaper over existing wallpaper, tile, linoleum and other questionable surfaces . If you are considering and install like this, I suggest giving me a call before you start to prep.

What is the best way to test for wallpaper primer?

Water absorption is one of the key factors in determining whether you should use wallpaper primer. So, it helps to test out the wall with a small amount of water to gauge the rate of absorption.

Why do you need wallpaper primer?

By providing a shield between the wallpaper glue and the wall, wallpaper primer makes removal easier. Wallpaper glue tightly bonds with its substrate. The more pores available, the greater the bond. Wallpaper primer fills those pores.

Why is wallpaper so hard to remove?

And wallpaper is almost always difficult to remove since it has a tendency to grab onto the wall and not let go .

Does primer remove wallpaper?

Wallpaper primer will not make wallpaper removal completely effortless nor will it ensure that the lower surface remains in pristine condition. But wallpaper primer does make a difference between taking down wallpaper or taking down wallpaper along with lots of paper facing and gypsum core.

Can you use wallpaper primer on unpainted drywall?

Use wallpaper primer on any bare, uncoated surface, especially unprimed, unpainted drywall .

Why is it important to apply sizing to wallpaper?

Applying sizing changes the quality of your walls to make wallpaper application easier . Sizing creates a slippery, slightly glossy surface on your wall. This texture will make it easier for you to move the pieces of wallpaper around as you install them, since they slide into place more readily.

What is sizing wallpaper?

Sizing is a substance which you can apply to walls as part of your preparation before hanging wallpaper. Depending upon what kind of walls you have and what preparations you've already made, applying sizing is a largely optional step. However, sizing offers many benefits, and there are many situations in which adding sizing could greatly benefit ...

Why do you need primer on a wall?

Primers seal the wall and protect it against moisture; excessive moisture can cause the wall to deteriorate and can cause paint beneath the wallpaper to become too soft. They can also prevent the wallpaper adhesive from soaking into the wall, thus making it difficult or impossible to remove the wallpaper later.

Why is sizing important for plaster?

In the case of a plaster wall, sizing not only helps with moving and adjusting the paper more easily, but it prevents the wall from soaking up too much water from the paper too quickly. On plaster, sizing has the additional effect of sealing in stains.

Can you use wallpaper on drywall?

You shouldn't apply wallpaper to bare drywall, and so you'll be applying wallpaper to walls that are either primed or painted. If there is a coat of paint on the walls before you wallpaper, then the sheen of the paint determines how easy it is to install the wallpaper: High-gloss sheens allow paper to slide more easily than flat or matte sheens. If your wall has a flat or matte coat of paint, then sizing makes the wall more amenable to wallpaper. Walls with glossy paint will already be very smooth. However, the slick surface created by sizing is better and easier to work with than relying on the smooth surface of glossy paint, and so you may want to use sizing anyway. If you do, lightly sand the walls to help the sizing stick better.

Is it better to use sizing or wallpaper?

If your wall has a flat or matte coat of paint, then sizing makes the wall more amenable to wallpaper. Walls with glossy paint will already be very smooth. However, the slick surface created by sizing is better and easier to work with than relying on the smooth surface of glossy paint, and so you may want to use sizing anyway.

Do you need to paint a wall with plaster?

If your walls are plaster instead of drywall, then it's not necessary to use paint or primer to protect the walls from the wallpaper. Plaster walls lack the paper facing that drywall has, and so won't absorb as much water or deteriorate with excessive moisture. However, plaster walls do require sizing. In the case of a plaster wall, sizing not only helps with moving and adjusting the paper more easily, but it prevents the wall from soaking up too much water from the paper too quickly. On plaster, sizing has the additional effect of sealing in stains.