How to Hang Wallpaper: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wallpaper adds character and texture and is a popular choice for transforming a space. It is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to give a room a fresh new look. Wallpaper can help you create a bold statement wall, or add a subtle touch of elegance to your home. By choosing the right wallpaper and color scheme, you can create a mood and atmosphere that reflects your personality.

Choosing the Right Wallpaper for Your Project

The design, color, and texture you choose should reflect your taste and personality. Additionally, it’s a good idea for the design you choose to fit with the overall theme and color scheme of your home. This creates a cohesive and harmonious look throughout your living space, which can promote a sense of balance and tranquility. Wall coverings are a big investment and not easily removed. For my bathroom remodel, I wanted to hang a moody print (since that’s popular right now), however, I ended up choosing a brighter and more simple design.

Ordering Samples

Ordering wallpaper samples before purchasing your panels is essential. The samples will allow you to see and feel the texture and quality of the material. Colors can look different under various lighting conditions. The “perfect color” on your computer screen may not translate well in your actual living space. By ordering a sample and seeing it in person, you can make a more informed decision about which one is right for you.

It’s much easier and cheaper to order a sample and realize that the wallpaper is not right for you, than it is to buy multiple rolls and end up not liking your choice. Some are returnable, but the one I chose was “made to order” and no returns would be accepted.

The Samples I Ordered

Left– Aspen Wallpaper Right– Peacock Wallpaper

The sample on the left looked different from the picture I saw online, and it even looks different in this picture I posted. In person, the main color has more of a brownish-gray undertone. It is still beautiful, if these are the colors you’re looking for.

The one on the right was my favorite sample! When I did a poll on my Instagram, it was also the top choice of my followers. If I would’ve chosen a “moody” design, this would’ve been my choice. This one is very beautiful and the metallic gold reflects light and creates a shimmering effect.

Too Grainy in Person

In my opinion, this wallpaper sample was the main reason you should order a sample. It looked pretty on the pictures I viewed online, but was grainy when I saw it in person. I won’t link this one because I can’t recommend it.

Color Chart for Peel-and-Stick

One of the peel-and-stick samples I ordered (that I ended up not liking) sent this color chart that is very helpful. It is a great way to compare a different color, if the one you ordered doesn’t meet your expectations.

Left– Peel-and-Stick Right– Traditional Unpasted

Left Sample

This peel-and-stick sample had great texture, and is a pure white. The color temperature of white can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of a space. If you’re looking for a brighter, more modern look, a pure white wallpaper may be a good choice.

Right Sample

In the end, I chose this warm white traditional option for my half bath remodel. Warm white can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and would complement the other colors in this bathroom design.

Black Floral Traditional Wallpaper

Horizontal Patterns

Using horizontal patterns will make a room seem larger. In some cases, this can be great, but it can also be overwhelming in smaller spaces. Furthermore, remember that horizontal patterns on wallpaper can be problematic in rooms with ceilings and walls that aren’t square. This happens because horizontal lines can emphasize any asymmetry in the room. When the pattern runs horizontally, it can create an illusion that the walls are even more uneven than they actually are.

Vertical Patterns

In contrast to horizontal, vertical patterns can help to create the illusion of height, and make a room feel more spacious. Ultimately, the choice of wallpaper pattern will depend on the specific dimensions and characteristics of the room, as well as the overall aesthetic goals of the homeowner.

Peel-and-Stick vs. Unpasted (Traditional)

Both unpasted and peel-and-stick wallpaper have their own unique advantages. This is dependent upon the specific needs of your home renovation project. The best choice will ultimately depend on your own personal preferences, budget, and needs.

Peel-and-Stick

Unlike traditional wallpaper, this does not require paste to adhere to walls. Instead, it has a pre-applied adhesive backing that allows it to stick to surfaces with ease. This type of wallpaper is often used for temporary decorating, as it can easily be removed from the walls.

For peel-and-stick, I would recommend considering the use and location for the application. Hanging peel-and-stick wallpaper is an excellent option for kids’ bedrooms, because children tend to be rough on their walls. With traditional wallpaper, kids’ activities such as playing, drawing (who hasn’t had a kid use sharpie on their walls?), or hanging up posters, can cause damage to the wall’s surface. This material is easy to clean and can simply be wiped down with a damp cloth; making it a great choice for high-traffic areas or places where children play.

I have installed peel-and-stick wallpaper in three of my daughters’ bedrooms. It was a much cheaper option than traditional wallpaper. I used a white brick wallpaper in two of the rooms, and white shiplap in the other. I would highly recommend this as a two-person project because the wallpaper is very sticky and can be difficult to hang. The advantage of using peel-and-stick is that it is easy to pull off and reposition if you make a mistake.

Peel-and-Stick White Brick

Peel-and-Stick White Shiplap

Caution: This is considered removable wallpaper, but I damaged part of my wall when I tried to peel off a piece to reposition after several months. The longer it’s on, the more it sticks.

Tip: Heat wallpaper with a hair dryer for a minute before peeling. This will help to ensure that pieces of dry wall don’t pull off.

Traditional Unpasted

Hanging unpasted traditional wallpaper has a number of benefits and is generally more durable and long-lasting. This material can withstand wear and tear for years without fading or peeling away from the wall. Additionally, unpasted wallpaper typically has a more classic and elegant look, that can make a room feel more refined and sophisticated.

Another key advantage, is the relative ease of hanging. I imagined this would be the more difficult method, but quickly found that it was easier than the peel-and-stick ones I’ve used in the past.

A disadvantage to using unpasted wallpaper is that it is more difficult to clean, and may not be as suitable for high-moisture areas. Over time, humidity may cause this type of wallpaper to peel or bubble.

Ordering Your Wallpaper

Measuring

The first thing you want to do is measure the width and height of the wall you want to cover. Next, calculate the total square footage by multiplying the height by the width. For example, if your wall is 8 feet high x 10 feet wide, you would multiply 8 by 10 to get 80 square feet. Lastly, you will calculate how many rolls you’ll need by dividing the total square footage of your wall by the square footage of each roll. For example, if your wall is 80 square feet and each roll covers 27.5 square feet, you would need approximately 3 rolls to cover the entire wall.

The amount needed is also dependent upon the distance between repeating patterns. Refer to packaging instructions or the website description for this information, then plan accordingly. It’s always a good idea to purchase a little extra wallpaper, just in case you make any mistakes with calculations or installation. Ordering extra rolls will also help compensate for the distance between repeating patterns.

The traditional unpasted wallpaper I ordered for my bathroom remodel was “made to order”, and each panel was printed to start at the top of the wall. For these calculations, I determined the length I would need for each panel (floor to ceiling). Next, I determined the number of panels needed by dividing the total wall width by the panel width. Most companies have instructions that assist in measuring for their product.

Make sure each roll comes from the same batch!

Supplies Needed to Hang Unpasted Wallpaper

• Wallpaper Paste
• Wallpaper Smoothing Tool
• Sharp Razor Blades
• Scissors
• Paint Roller and Tray
• Level
• Measuring Tape
• Pencil
• Putty Knife of Straight Edge Tool
• Ladder or Step Stool

Prepping Your Walls

Before hanging your unpasted wallpaper, you need to prepare the wall. Make sure it is clean and smooth, with no bumps, cracks, mold, or holes.

• Remove Everything From Walls– switch plates, outlet covers, lights, and wall decor.
• Repair Holes
• Smooth Texture
• Wash and Dry– I use this washable microfiber mop to wash my walls and it is AMAZING!

Preparing to Hang Your Wallpaper

Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for hanging the wallpaper you purchased. Below, is the process I followed for the wallpaper that I used for my bathroom.

How Long to Cut Each Panel

Panel 1 Panel 2

The wallpaper I ordered came in two different panels that were printed to be started near the top and alternating panel 1 and panel 2. Depending on the printing of your wallpaper, the cutting instructions may be very different. I measured the height of the wall and added 4 inches. This will give you room to line up patterns and make needed adjustments.

Tip– Measure your cut length and mark with painters tape for repeated cuts.

How to Apply Adhesive

Using a paintbrush or a roller (I used both), apply the adhesive to the back of the wallpaper. Make sure you cover the edges and corners thoroughly. I also added paste to the wall to ensure proper adhesion.

Booking

“Booking” means folding the wallpaper in on itself, adhesive side to adhesive side. This is done to help it to absorb the moisture from the paste and become more pliable. Fold the wallpaper into the middle in thirds, starting from the top and bottom. Mate each end toward the middle, pasted sides together. Carefully align the edges so they don’t dry out. Let rest for 10 minutes. This will allow the adhesive to penetrate the wallpaper.

How to Hang Your Wallpaper

Create a Plumb Line

A plumb line is a vertical reference line that runs from the ceiling to the floor, and it allows you to align your wallpaper panels accurately. To create a plumb line, start by measuring the width of your wallpaper panel. I used an extra strip of wallpaper that was leftover from my cuts. Start on the left corner of the wall and overlap the corner by about an inch. Use the level on the right side to draw a straight vertical line- this is your plumb line.

How to Start

Carefully unfold the top third of the wallpaper and align the right side with the plumb line. Remember to leave a bit of overlap at the top and bottom to allow for trimming later. Smooth out any air bubbles and work your way down the strip, unfolding and smoothing as you go. Once your first panel is in place, you can use it as a guide to hang subsequent panels.

Trimming the Wallpaper

Once the wallpaper is fully hung, use a sharp razor blade and straightedge to trim the excess off the top and bottom. Use a new razor blade with each cut. A dull razor will result in frayed edges. I learned this the hard way, but was able to repair the edges with caulk.

Before and After Bathroom Remodel

Project Summary

Hanging traditional wallpaper (or peel-and-stick) can be a great DIY project. While there may be a learning curve involved, as you become more experienced, you will find techniques that work best for you.

When it comes to DIY projects, research is key. It’s important to gather all the necessary information to ensure that your project is done right. Although, even with all the research in the world, sometimes the biggest lessons are learned through hands-on experience.

Undertaking DIY projects is not just about the end result, but also about the process and the skills you acquire along the way. Through trial and error, you learn what works and what doesn’t, which technique are most effective, and what tools you need to get the job done efficiently. It’s all about getting your hands dirty and learning by doing.

Do you have any tips for how to hang wallpaper? Please share below in comments!