How to Wallpaper a Room

Wallpapering can seem tough. But guess what? It's a DIY project that can really pay off! It's a super cool way to change a room. You can add your own style, some texture, and a look that paint just can't give you. This guide? It'll take you through every step. You'll learn what you need to know to wallpaper like a pro. Whether you're just starting out or have done this before, these tips will help you get it perfect.

Why Wallpaper?

Why pick wallpaper? Let's see why it's still a great choice for your home:

• Looks Awesome: Wallpaper comes in tons of designs. You can find anything! From simple shapes to pretty flowers, there's a wallpaper for everyone.
• Tough Stuff: Good wallpaper lasts longer than paint. It can handle everyday life, which is great for hallways and kids' rooms.
• Hides Problems: Got cracks or bumps on your walls? Wallpaper can hide them! You don't have to spend hours fixing them first.
• Adds Warmth: Wallpaper can make a room feel cozy and welcoming. Think of it like a warm hug for your walls!
• Adds Value: Nice wallpaper can even make your home worth more!

Tools and Stuff You Need

Getting ready is key. Make sure you have everything before you start. Here's what you'll need:

• Wallpaper: Figure out how much you need. Buy a little extra, just in case.
• Wallpaper Paste (if needed): Some wallpaper already has paste on it. If not, get the right kind.
• Paste Brush or Roller: To put the paste on the wallpaper.
• Pasting Table: A big, flat table to work on.
• Seam Roller: To smooth the lines where the wallpaper meets.
• Smoothing Brush or Tool: To get rid of air bubbles.
• Utility Knife or Razor Blade: For cutting the extra wallpaper.
• Straight Edge or Ruler: To cut straight lines.
• Measuring Tape: To measure the walls and wallpaper.
• Plumb Bob or Level: To make sure the first strip is straight.
• Pencil: To mark where to cut.
• Sponge and Water: To wipe off extra paste.
• Drop Cloths: To protect your floors.
• Ladder or Step Stool: To reach the high spots.
• Wallpaper Scorer (Optional): If you're taking off old wallpaper.
• Wallpaper Stripper (Optional): Also for taking off old wallpaper.

Let's Get Started: Step-by-Step

Okay, time to wallpaper! Follow these steps. You'll get a great finish.

1. Prep the Walls: Super Important!

Getting your walls ready is the most important part. Don't skip this!

1. Remove Old Wallpaper: If there's old wallpaper, take it off. Use a scorer to poke holes in it. Then, use wallpaper stripper. Let it soak, and scrape it off.
2. Clean the Walls: Wash the walls with soap and water. Then, rinse them and let them dry.
3. Fix Problems: Fill any holes or cracks. Sand them smooth when they're dry.
4. Prime the Walls: Use a wallpaper primer. This makes the wallpaper stick better. Let it dry.

2. Measure and Cut

Measure carefully! This is important for good-looking wallpaper.

1. Measure the Wall: How tall is the wall? Add a few inches to the top and bottom.
2. Cut the First Strip: Lay the wallpaper on the table. Measure and cut.
3. Match the Pattern: If the wallpaper has a pattern, you need to match it on each strip. This means you might waste some wallpaper.
4. Cut the Rest: Cut the other strips, matching the pattern. Number them on the back so you don't get mixed up.

3. Add Paste (If Needed)

If your wallpaper doesn't have paste on it, you need to add some.

1. Lay the Wallpaper Down: Put the wallpaper face down on the table.
2. Add Paste: Use a brush or roller to put paste on the back. Cover all the edges.
3. Book It: Fold the wallpaper over, paste-side to paste-side. Leave a little bit of the end without paste. This is called "booking." It lets the paste soak in.
4. Do the Rest: Do the same for all the strips. Let them sit for the time the wallpaper instructions say.

4. Hang It Up!

The fun part! Let's hang that wallpaper!

1. Make a Straight Line: Use a plumb bob or level to make a straight line on the wall. This is where the first strip will go.
2. Unfold the Top: Carefully unfold the top of the first strip.
3. Line It Up: Line up the top of the wallpaper with the ceiling and the line you made. Press it on the wall, starting at the top.
4. Smooth It Out: Use a smoothing brush to get rid of air bubbles. Work from the middle out.
5. Unfold the Bottom: Unfold the bottom of the strip and smooth it out.
6. Cut Off Extra: Use a knife and straight edge to cut off the extra wallpaper at the top and bottom.
7. Wipe Off Paste: Use a damp sponge to wipe off any extra paste.
8. Hang the Rest: Hang the other strips, matching the pattern. Overlap the edges a little.
9. Use a Seam Roller: Use a seam roller to smooth the edges.

5. Almost Done!

Take a look at your work! Looking good? Here's how to finish it off:

• Check for Problems: Look for bubbles or wrinkles. If you find any, lift the wallpaper and smooth them out.
• Clean Up: Clean up any extra paste.
• Let It Dry: Let the wallpaper dry. This might take a few days.

Uh Oh! Problems?

Sometimes things go wrong. Here's how to fix some common problems:

• Air Bubbles: Poke them with a pin and smooth them out.
• Loose Edges: Add a little paste and press them down.
• Tears: Try to patch it with a small piece of wallpaper.
• Mold: Clean it with mold cleaner. Make sure the room has good air flow.

Tips for First-Timers

New to this? Here are some tips:

• Start Small: Try a closet or small bathroom first.
• Ask for Help: If you're stuck, ask a friend.
• Take Your Time: Don't rush!
• Read the Instructions: Follow the wallpaper instructions.
• Practice: The more you do it, the better you'll get.

You Did It!

Wallpapering is a great way to add style to your home. It might seem hard at first, but you can do it! Just follow these tips. Now go pick out some awesome wallpaper and get started!