How to successfully hang your wallpaper?
Wallpaper adds a touch of personality and elegance to your walls. However, successfully hanging classic, non-woven, or rigid wallpaper can seem daunting for DIY novices. Here are our tips.
Summary
• Prepare the wall before hanging the wallpaper
• Where should the first strip of wallpaper be placed?
• Should the strips be reversed for a better result?
• How to wallpaper a wall?
Discover our practical tips for successfully installing your wallpaper step by step, as well as a detailed method for achieving a professional result.
Prepare the wall before hanging the wallpaper
Before you begin hanging your wallpaper, it's essential to properly prepare the wall to achieve a smooth and long-lasting result. The walls must be free of imperfections to ensure a good finish.
Clean the wall and ensure it is clean, dry, and free of dust or dirt. Use a damp cloth to wipe the surface if necessary.
Repair any imperfections in the wall, such as holes or cracks , by filling them with filler . Sand the surface to obtain a flat finish.
Apply an undercoat: if your wall is brightly colored or has stains , applying a suitable undercoat helps to even out the color of the wall and facilitates the adhesion of the wallpaper.
Locate the center of the wall to ensure a symmetrical installation; mark the center of the wall using a spirit level and a pencil. This line will serve as a guide for installing the first strip.
Image- Resident Magazine
Where should the first strip of wallpaper be placed?
Choosing where to hang the first strip of wallpaper is crucial for ensuring perfect alignment. Generally, it's recommended to start hanging the wallpaper in the center of the wall , using the reference point you marked earlier. This will create perfect symmetry and prevent uneven edges at the corners.
Measure the width of the wallpaper strip and add a few extra centimeters to make sure you don't run out of wallpaper when you reach the corner of the wall.
Make sure you prepare the wallpaper paste and your equipment (pasting brush, smoothing spatula, table or trestles, etc.) beforehand.
Should the strips be reversed for a better result?
Reversing wallpaper strips is a common practice that results in a better visual effect, especially for patterned or textured wallpapers. Here's how to do it:
- Before cutting your first strip, make sure to check the direction of the wallpaper pattern . Some patterns may have a very specific direction, and it is essential to arrange them correctly for a harmonious result.
- Once you have checked the direction of the pattern, cut your first strip leaving a few centimeters of margin at the top and bottom for a precise fit.
- For the second strip, reverse the direction of the wallpaper by turning the strip over before cutting it. This way, the pattern will be mirrored compared to the first strip that was hung.
- Repeat this process for the following strips, alternating directions to obtain a uniform and harmonious result.
How to "wallpaper" a wall?
Follow these steps to wallpaper your wall:
1- Apply wallpaper paste to the back of the first strip using a brush or paint roller . Make sure to paste the edges well.
2- Fold the glued strip over itself, forming an accordion, ensuring that the glued edges touch. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the glue to soak in completely.
3. Carefully unfold the strip and place it along the vertical line already drawn, aligning the edge of the wallpaper with the wall line. Smooth the wallpaper with a soft brush or a smoothing spatula to remove air bubbles and creases.
4- Repeat the process for the other strips, making sure to align them properly and match the patterns if necessary.
5- Use a cutter to cut the excess wallpaper at the top and bottom of the wall, following the contours of the ceiling and floor.
6- Gently wipe away any excess glue with a damp sponge to prevent it from drying and leaving marks on the wallpaper.
7- Allow the wallpaper to dry for the time recommended by the manufacturer before putting the furniture back in place or decorating the room.
By following this method to hang your wallpaper, you'll achieve a flawless result that will transform your interior and reflect your style. Don't hesitate to take your time and ask for help if needed, as wallpapering can be a rewarding but demanding project that requires patience and precision. Happy hanging!
0 Comments