How to hang wallpaper

One of the most daunting challenges for a DIY novice can be changed into a quick and easy job which instantly changes a room once the simple techniques have been mastered.

Before hanging wallpaper: prepare the wall

Before hanging any paper the walls must be prepared. This involves cleaning the walls with soapy water and removing any old paper using a stripping knife. It is also a good time to fill in any cracks or small holes and sand the walls – this will lead to a smoother and more professional finish.

Wallpaper Paste

Glue size should be applied to the clean and dry walls. This makes the walls more adhesive and also allows for the paper to be slid across them when hanging. Glue size can either be bought ready made or the paste which is planned to be used in the hanging can be used in diluted form. It should be applied to the entire wall removing any excess with a sponge.

Preparing and cutting the wallpaper

The paper can now be measured and cut to length. Before this is done it is advised to check which way any pattern may go and which way up the paper hangs. It is a good idea to mark the back of the wallpaper with a ‘T’ for the top. Measure the length of the wall using a tape measure and then measure, pencil mark and cut the wallpaper, adding a surplus 10cm to both the top and bottom for trimming and tidying.

Apply the wallpaper paste

You are now ready to paste and apply the paper. Facing it down on a wipe clean table apply the paste (which can be bought either ready made or in flakes which need mixing) to the back using a soft paste brush. It is important to keep the brush as clean from dirt as possible. When applying the paste start at the top of the roll and work outwards from the centre trying to ensure an even spread. The paper should then be lightly folded in to the middle form the top and bottom and left to soak as per manufacturers’ instructions – although this may appear time consuming it will help eradicate the problem of blisters.

Placing the wallpaper on the wall

A straight line should be faintly drawn on the wall using a spirit level or plumb line so that the paper hangs vertically. Hang the paper from the top using a soft brush lightly pressing the paper against the wall. Remember to allow the 10cm overlap at the top and bottom.

The paper should now lie perfectly in position, if it doesn’t you should find that the glue size applied earlier lets you gently slide the paper in position. Any bubbles can be removing by brushing gently from top to bottom.

Trim the top and bottom of the wallpaper

All that is left to do is trim the top against the wall and the bottom against the skirting using either scissors or a stanley knife giving a sharp edge and clean finish.

When tidying you may some excess paste, don’t worry, just use a clean damp sponge to dab away and enjoy your new room!