Transform Your Space: A Comprehensive Guide to Wallpapering Like a Pro
Wallpapering can dramatically transform a room, adding personality, texture, and visual interest. While it might seem daunting, with the right preparation and techniques, you can achieve professional-looking results yourself. This comprehensive guide breaks down the wallpapering process into manageable steps, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure a smooth and successful project.
## Is Wallpaper Right for You?
Before diving in, consider whether wallpaper is the best choice for your space and lifestyle:
* **Durability:** Wallpaper is generally more durable than paint, resisting scratches and scuffs.
* **Design Options:** The range of patterns, textures, and colors available in wallpaper is vast, offering endless design possibilities.
* **Maintenance:** Some wallpapers are easier to clean than others. Consider the room’s function and choose a suitable type.
* **Cost:** Wallpaper can be more expensive than paint, considering the cost of the paper and tools.
* **Removal:** Removing wallpaper can be a tedious task, so consider this before committing to a particular design.
## Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Gathering the right tools and materials is crucial for a successful wallpapering project. Here’s a comprehensive list:
* **Wallpaper:** Calculate the amount of wallpaper needed based on the room’s dimensions. It’s always wise to buy an extra roll or two to account for mistakes and pattern matching. Note the batch number on the rolls and ensure they are all the same. Different batches can have subtle color variations.
* **Wallpaper Paste (if applicable):** Some wallpapers are pre-pasted, while others require separate adhesive. Choose a paste specifically designed for the type of wallpaper you’re using. Read the wallpaper manufacturer’s instructions to select the correct type of paste and mixing ratio.
* **Paste Brush or Roller:** For applying paste to non-pasted wallpaper. Use a wide brush for smooth papers and a roller for textured papers.
* **Wallpaper Smoothing Brush or Plastic Smoother:** To smooth out air bubbles and wrinkles after applying the wallpaper to the wall. A plastic smoother is gentler on delicate wallpapers.
* **Seam Roller:** To press the seams between wallpaper strips for a seamless look.
* **Utility Knife or Sharp Razor Blade:** For trimming excess wallpaper at the top and bottom of the walls. Always use a fresh blade for clean cuts.
* **Measuring Tape:** For accurately measuring walls and wallpaper strips.
* **Pencil:** For marking cutting lines on the wallpaper.
* **Plumb Bob or Level:** To ensure the first wallpaper strip is perfectly vertical, which is crucial for the rest of the project.
* **Wallpaper Tray:** For holding the wallpaper paste.
* **Sponge and Clean Water:** To wipe away excess paste from the wallpaper surface and the walls.
* **Seam Adhesive (optional):** For extra adhesion at the seams, especially in high-humidity areas.
* **Primer:** To prepare the walls for wallpaper and improve adhesion. Use a wallpaper-specific primer.
* **Drop Cloths:** To protect your floors and furniture from paste and debris.
* **Ladder or Step Stool:** To reach high areas of the walls.
* **Putty Knife and Joint Compound:** For patching any holes or imperfections in the walls before priming.
* **Sandpaper:** For smoothing patched areas and creating a smooth surface for the primer.
* **Protective Gloves:** To protect your hands from the paste.
* **Safety Glasses:** To protect your eyes from debris when sanding or cutting.
## Preparing the Room for Wallpapering
Proper preparation is key to a successful wallpapering project. Follow these steps to prepare your room:
1. **Clear the Room:** Remove all furniture from the room or move it to the center and cover it with drop cloths. This will give you plenty of space to work.
2. **Protect the Floors:** Cover the floors with drop cloths to protect them from paste and debris.
3. **Prepare the Walls:** This is the most crucial step. Start by removing any existing wallpaper. If you’re wallpapering over painted walls, wash them with a solution of warm water and TSP (trisodium phosphate) to remove any dirt, grease, or mildew. Rinse thoroughly and let the walls dry completely.
4. **Repair Imperfections:** Use a putty knife to fill any holes, cracks, or imperfections in the walls with joint compound. Let the compound dry completely and then sand it smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. Remove any sanding dust with a damp cloth.
5. **Prime the Walls:** Apply a wallpaper-specific primer to the walls. Primer seals the surface, creates a uniform texture, and improves the adhesion of the wallpaper. Let the primer dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. **Turn Off the Power:** Turn off the power to any electrical outlets or switches in the room and remove the faceplates. Cover the outlets and switches with painter’s tape to protect them from paste.
## Measuring and Cutting the Wallpaper
Accurate measuring and cutting are essential for a professional-looking finish. Follow these steps:
1. **Measure the Wall Height:** Measure the height of the wall from the ceiling to the baseboard in several places. Use the longest measurement to determine the length of your wallpaper strips. Add a few extra inches (typically 2-4 inches) to the top and bottom of each strip to allow for trimming.
2. **Cut the First Strip:** Unroll the wallpaper and measure and cut the first strip to the length you determined in the previous step. Use a sharp utility knife or razor blade and a straight edge to ensure a clean cut.
3. **Match the Pattern (if applicable):** If your wallpaper has a pattern, you’ll need to match the pattern at the seams. Lay the first strip on a flat surface, pattern side up. Unroll the second strip and align the pattern with the first strip. Cut the second strip so that the pattern matches perfectly. Repeat this process for all subsequent strips, being careful to maintain the pattern match.
4. **Number the Strips:** As you cut the wallpaper strips, number them on the back in the order they will be applied to the wall. This will help you keep track of the pattern and prevent mistakes.
## Applying the Wallpaper Paste (if applicable)
If you’re using non-pasted wallpaper, you’ll need to apply the wallpaper paste to the back of the strips. Follow these steps:
1. **Prepare the Paste:** Mix the wallpaper paste according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a clean bucket and a mixing stick to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency.
2. **Lay the Strip on a Clean Surface:** Place the first wallpaper strip face down on a clean, flat surface. A pasting table is ideal, but you can also use a clean floor or a large piece of cardboard covered with plastic.
3. **Apply the Paste:** Using a paste brush or roller, apply a generous, even coat of paste to the back of the wallpaper strip. Start in the center of the strip and work your way out to the edges. Be sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges, with paste.
4. **Book the Wallpaper:** “Booking” is the process of folding the pasted wallpaper strip onto itself to allow the paste to soak into the paper. Fold the top third of the strip down onto the pasted surface, aligning the edges. Then, fold the bottom third of the strip up onto the pasted surface, again aligning the edges. This creates a compact package that prevents the paste from drying out too quickly.
5. **Soaking Time:** Allow the booked wallpaper strip to soak for the amount of time recommended by the wallpaper manufacturer. This is typically 5-10 minutes. The soaking time allows the paste to activate and ensures that the wallpaper adheres properly to the wall. Refer to the instructions on your wallpaper.
6. **Clean Up:** Wipe any excess paste from the table or floor with a damp sponge.
## Applying the Wallpaper to the Wall
Once the wallpaper is pasted and booked, you’re ready to apply it to the wall. Follow these steps:
1. **Position the First Strip:** Carefully unfold the top portion of the booked wallpaper strip. Align the top edge of the strip with the ceiling, leaving the extra inches you allowed for trimming at the top. Use a plumb bob or level to ensure that the strip is perfectly vertical. This is crucial for the rest of the project, as any imperfections in the first strip will be magnified in subsequent strips.
2. **Smooth the Wallpaper:** Using a wallpaper smoothing brush or plastic smoother, gently smooth the wallpaper onto the wall. Start in the center of the strip and work your way out to the edges, smoothing out any air bubbles or wrinkles. Be careful not to stretch or tear the wallpaper.
3. **Unfold the Bottom Portion:** Once the top portion of the strip is smooth, unfold the bottom portion and repeat the smoothing process.
4. **Trim the Excess:** Using a sharp utility knife or razor blade and a straight edge, trim the excess wallpaper at the top and bottom of the wall. Make sure your blade is sharp for clean cuts.
5. **Wipe Away Excess Paste:** Use a damp sponge to wipe away any excess paste from the wallpaper surface and the walls. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can damage the wallpaper.
6. **Roll the Seams:** Use a seam roller to press the seams between the wallpaper strips for a seamless look. Roll the seams firmly but gently to avoid damaging the wallpaper.
7. **Repeat the Process:** Repeat steps 1-6 for each subsequent wallpaper strip, being careful to match the pattern and align the seams. Work your way around the room, one strip at a time.
## Dealing with Obstacles
Wallpapering around obstacles such as windows, doors, and electrical outlets can be tricky, but with a little patience and attention to detail, you can achieve a professional-looking finish. Here are some tips:
* **Windows and Doors:** When you reach a window or door, hang the wallpaper strip as if the opening weren’t there. Then, use a sharp utility knife or razor blade to carefully cut away the excess wallpaper around the opening, leaving a small overlap. Use a smoothing brush to press the wallpaper firmly against the wall around the opening. Finally, trim the overlap with a sharp blade and a straight edge.
* **Electrical Outlets and Switches:** Before you reach an electrical outlet or switch, turn off the power to the circuit breaker. Hang the wallpaper strip as if the outlet or switch weren’t there. Then, use a sharp utility knife or razor blade to carefully cut away the wallpaper over the opening, leaving a small overlap. Use a smoothing brush to press the wallpaper firmly against the wall around the opening. Finally, trim the overlap with a sharp blade and a straight edge. Replace the faceplate.
* **Corners:** Wallpapering corners can be challenging, as they are rarely perfectly straight. To wallpaper a corner, measure the distance from the edge of the last wallpaper strip to the corner. Add about 1/2 inch to this measurement and cut a strip of wallpaper to this width. Apply the wallpaper to the wall, overlapping the corner by about 1/2 inch. Then, use a plumb bob or level to draw a vertical line on the wall, marking the edge of the overlap. Use a sharp utility knife or razor blade to carefully cut along this line, removing the excess wallpaper. Smooth the wallpaper onto the wall, pressing it firmly into the corner. On the adjacent wall, measure from the corner to the edge of the last wallpaper strip. Cut a strip of wallpaper to this width and apply it to the wall, overlapping the corner by about 1/2 inch. Smooth the wallpaper onto the wall, pressing it firmly into the corner. The overlap will create a seamless finish.
## Tips for a Professional Finish
* **Use Sharp Blades:** Always use a fresh, sharp blade in your utility knife or razor blade to ensure clean cuts. Dull blades can tear the wallpaper and make it difficult to achieve a professional-looking finish.
* **Don’t Overlap Seams:** Avoid overlapping the seams between wallpaper strips, as this can create a bulky, uneven look. Instead, butt the seams together tightly and use a seam roller to press them firmly into place.
* **Work in Good Light:** Make sure you have plenty of light in the room so you can see what you’re doing and avoid making mistakes. Natural light is best, but if you’re working in a dimly lit room, use additional lamps or work lights.
* **Take Your Time:** Wallpapering is not a race. Take your time and work carefully to avoid making mistakes. If you get frustrated, take a break and come back to it later.
* **Clean as You Go:** Wipe away any excess paste or debris as you go to prevent it from drying and becoming difficult to remove.
* **Consider a Professional:** If you’re not confident in your ability to wallpaper a room yourself, consider hiring a professional. A professional wallpaper installer will have the experience and expertise to achieve a flawless finish.
* **Practice on a small area first:** If you are a beginner, try wallpapering a small less visible area like an inside closet before you start on the whole room. This will give you a feel for the process and help you avoid costly mistakes.
* **Pay attention to the room’s humidity:** Avoid wallpapering on very humid days, as the paste may not dry properly. If you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in the room before you start wallpapering.
* **Allow for proper drying time:** After you have finished wallpapering, allow the wallpaper to dry completely before moving furniture back into the room. This can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours.
* **Consider lining paper:** For walls that are in particularly poor condition, consider using lining paper. Lining paper is a plain paper that is applied to the wall before wallpapering. It helps to create a smooth, even surface for the wallpaper to adhere to.
* **Double check your measurements:** Before you cut any wallpaper, double-check your measurements to make sure they are accurate. This will help you avoid wasting wallpaper and ensure that the wallpaper fits properly.
## Choosing the Right Wallpaper
The type of wallpaper you choose can significantly impact the look and feel of your room, as well as the ease of installation and maintenance. Here’s a breakdown of common wallpaper types:
* **Traditional Wallpaper:** Usually paper-backed, requiring paste application. Can be more challenging to install, but offers a wide range of designs and textures.
* **Pre-Pasted Wallpaper:** Adhesive is already applied to the back, activated by water. Easier to install than traditional wallpaper but may require more care to avoid activating the adhesive prematurely.
* **Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper:** Also known as self-adhesive wallpaper. Easiest to install, as it simply peels off the backing and sticks to the wall. Good for renters or those who want a temporary design change. Not all peel-and-stick wallpapers are created equal; some may not adhere well or may damage the wall when removed.
* **Vinyl Wallpaper:** Highly durable and washable, making it a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Resistant to moisture and stains.
* **Fabric Wallpaper:** Adds texture and luxury to a room. Can be more difficult to install and may require professional cleaning.
* **Grasscloth Wallpaper:** Made from natural fibers, offering a unique, textured look. Can be challenging to install and may require special adhesive.
* **Paintable Wallpaper:** Designed to be painted, allowing you to customize the color and finish. A good option for adding texture to a room without committing to a specific color or pattern.
## Calculating Wallpaper Needs
Before purchasing wallpaper, it’s crucial to accurately calculate how much you’ll need to avoid running out or buying too much. Here’s a simple method:
1. **Measure the Walls:** Measure the width of each wall in the room. Add these measurements together to get the total perimeter of the room.
2. **Measure the Wall Height:** Measure the height of the walls from the baseboard to the ceiling.
3. **Calculate the Wall Area:** Multiply the total perimeter of the room by the wall height to get the total wall area in square feet.
4. **Account for Openings:** Measure the width and height of any windows or doors in the room. Multiply these measurements to get the area of each opening. Add these areas together to get the total area of the openings.
5. **Subtract Openings:** Subtract the total area of the openings from the total wall area to get the net wall area.
6. **Calculate Rolls Needed:** Check the wallpaper roll label for the square footage it covers. Divide the net wall area by the square footage per roll to determine the number of rolls needed. Round up to the nearest whole number to ensure you have enough wallpaper. It’s always best to have extra wallpaper for pattern matching, mistakes, and future repairs.
7. **Consider Pattern Repeat:** If your wallpaper has a pattern repeat, you’ll need to factor this into your calculations. The pattern repeat is the vertical distance between identical points in the pattern. Add the pattern repeat to the wall height before calculating the strip length. This will ensure that the pattern matches correctly at the seams.
## Removing Old Wallpaper
If you’re wallpapering over existing wallpaper, it’s important to remove the old wallpaper first. Wallpapering over old wallpaper can result in a poor finish and can make it difficult to remove the new wallpaper in the future. Here’s how to remove old wallpaper:
1. **Score the Wallpaper:** Use a scoring tool or a utility knife to score the surface of the wallpaper. This will allow the wallpaper remover to penetrate the wallpaper and loosen the adhesive.
2. **Apply Wallpaper Remover:** Apply a wallpaper remover solution to the scored wallpaper. You can use a commercial wallpaper remover or a homemade solution of warm water and vinegar. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the wallpaper remover.
3. **Let the Wallpaper Remover Soak:** Allow the wallpaper remover to soak into the wallpaper for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer. This will loosen the adhesive and make it easier to remove the wallpaper.
4. **Peel Off the Wallpaper:** Use a putty knife or scraper to peel off the wallpaper. Start at a corner or seam and work your way across the wall. If the wallpaper is difficult to remove, reapply the wallpaper remover and let it soak for a longer period of time.
5. **Remove Remaining Adhesive:** Once you’ve removed the wallpaper, use a sponge and warm water to remove any remaining adhesive from the wall. You may need to use a scraper to remove stubborn adhesive.
6. **Wash the Walls:** Wash the walls with a solution of warm water and TSP (trisodium phosphate) to remove any dirt, grease, or mildew. Rinse thoroughly and let the walls dry completely.
By following these steps and tips, you can successfully wallpaper a room and transform your space into a beautiful and stylish haven. Remember to take your time, be patient, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. With a little effort, you can achieve professional-looking results that you’ll be proud of for years to come.
Happy wallpapering!