It’s official! Wallpaper is finally back in style. Ok…it’s been a thing for a while now lol. But since I just wallpapered my sister’s kitchen the old fashioned way, I wanted to share with you all the steps for how to install wallpaper.
We all know I LOVE wallpaper, but I haven’t done a full tutorial before. Ready to learn all my wallpaper hanging secrets?! Side note, this tutorial is best for non-pasted papers.
How to Install Wallpaper
Let’s start with the video tutorial so you get an overview on what I did. Then, I’ll dive in with more details below:
If the video doesn’t work here, you can watch it on YouTube here. P.s. I’m trying to build that page up, so if you’d subscribe, I’d really appreciate that!SUPPLIES
- Wallpaper
- Wallpaper Paste
- Roller and Roller Cover
- Paint Tray
- Level
- Paint Brush
- Razor Blade
- Squeegee
- Pencil
- Wallpaper Smoothing Tool
My sister got this specific wallpaper from England. It ships for free to the US. If you’re looking for something similar, I rounded up some pretty blue and white options here.
step 1
Start by measuring how far over the first piece of wallpaper will go. Then, draw a level line about 1/2″ short of that.
Dip a regular paint roller into wallpaper paste and apply it to the wall. Make sure to put on a generous amount- it’s better to have too much than too little.
Side note, I put up my wallpaper before the crown molding went up along the cove ceiling. I put a level line up there so I’d know where to start the paper.Once the first piece of paper was lined up with the pencil line, I used a wallpaper smoother. The goal was to push out any excess paste and make sure the paper laid flat. In the corner, cut off the excess paper. Finish this strip by using a wet rag or sponge to clean up any extra wallpaper adhesive.
step 2
Going around windows or doorways can be tricky! To do this, trim the paper so the repeat matches at the top. Then, apply the adhesive. Next, put the paper on the wall and match up the repeat. Smooth the paper on the wall as much as is possible.
Next, use a pencil and trace around the trim. Make sure that you don’t trim off too much- leave extra on that you’ll trim off later. Cut with scissors on the pencil line.
Working along the window trim is a slow process. Watch the video for a better illustration. What I do is trim a little and work on the wallpaper until I can fold it back along the trim. Once the paper is flat on the trim, use a razor blade to make the final cut.
step 3
And now, to do the corner, I simply matched up the repeat in the pattern on the left side. Then, I pushed the wallpaper into the corner and smoothed everything flat. If you have really uneven walls, you might want to start in the corner and work your way out. This was easier and worked nicely for me.
step 4
Usually, to trim off the excess wallpaper, I take the wallpaper smoother and use it as a straight edge with the razor as I trim. Sometimes, that can result in a bit of a jagged edge. Sometimes, in key space, I use a pencil and mark the line that needs to be cut. Finally, I use scissors to trim on the line.
Finish by wiping off any excess wallpaper paste.
after
Ta da! Didn’t the wallpaper just really transform this space?! You can see how the crown molding went off and finished off the paper.
The paper also went in the corner of the kitchen too. It’s enough to make a strong statement. I really love it!
Ok- so how are you feeling about wallpaper installation? I promise you can do it! Do you have any questions first?This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.
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Life With Stinky and Blinky says
I adore this wallpaper! If only I could figure out a way to add some to a room in my home.
[email protected] says
Isn’t it gorgeous? You could try just doing one accent wall with removable wallpaper. Then you don’t have to commit to an entire room and you can take if off if you don’t end up loving it 😉