DIY : How to successfully install your wallpaper?

Wallpaper gives a touch of personality and elegance to your walls. However, successfully installing your classic, non-woven or rigid wallpaper can seem intimidating for DIY novices. Our advice.

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Summary

• Prepare the wall before hanging the wallpaper
• Where to hang the first strip of wallpaper?
• Should we reverse the strips for a better result?
• How to wallpaper the wall?

Discover our practical advice for successfully installing your wallpaper step by step, as well as a detailed method to obtain a professional result.

Prepare the wall before hanging the wallpaper

Before you start hanging your wallpaper, it is essential to properly prepare the wall to obtain a smooth and durable result. Indeed, the walls must be without defects to obtain a good break result.

Clean the wall and make sure it is clean, dry and free of dust or dirt. Use a damp cloth to wipe the surface if necessary.

Repair imperfections in the wall if there are any, such as holes or cracks , fill them with filler . Sand the surface to obtain a flat surface.

Apply an undercoat: If your wall is brightly colored or has stains , applying an appropriate undercoat helps even out the color of the wall and makes it easier for the wallpaper to adhere.

Locate the center of the wall to obtain a symmetrical installation, mark the center of the wall using a spirit level and a pencil. This line will serve as a guide for laying the first strip.

Where to hang the first strip of wallpaper?

Choosing where to hang the first strip of wallpaper is crucial to ensure perfect alignment of the whole. As a general rule, it is recommended to start installing wallpaper in the center of the wall , from the mark you marked previously. This will achieve perfect symmetry and avoid having strips of wallpaper meeting unevenly at the corners of the wall.

Measure the width of the strip of wallpaper and add a few extra inches to make sure you don't run out of wallpaper when you reach the corner of the wall.

Make sure you prepare the wallpaper glue and your equipment (pasting brush, smoothing spatula, table or trestles, etc.) beforehand.

Should we reverse the strips for a better result?

Reversing wallpaper strips is a common practice that provides a better visual result, particularly for patterned or textured wallpapers. Here's how to do it:

- Before cutting your first strip, be sure to check the direction of the wallpaper pattern . Certain patterns can have a well-defined meaning, 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. Thus, the pattern will be a mirror image of the first strip laid.

- Repeat this process for the following strips, alternating the directions to obtain a uniform and harmonious result.

How to wallpaper the wall?

Follow these different steps to wallpaper your wall:

1- Apply wallpaper glue to the back of the first strip using a brush or paint roller . Make sure to glue the edges well.

2- Fold the glued strip on itself forming an accordion, making sure that the glued edges touch each other. Let it sit for a few minutes so that the glue soaks in well.

3- Gently unfold the strip and place it along the vertical line already drawn, aligning the edge of the wallpaper with the line of the wall. Smooth the wallpaper with a soft brush or smoothing spatula to remove air bubbles and wrinkles.

4- Repeat the process for the other strips, making sure to align them correctly and match the patterns if necessary.

5- Use a cutter to cut excess wallpaper at the top and bottom of the wall, following the contours of the ceiling and floor.

6- Gently wipe off any excess glue with a damp sponge to prevent it from drying and leaving marks on the wallpaper.

7- Let the wallpaper dry for the time recommended by the manufacturer before replacing the furniture or decorating the room.

By following this method for hanging your wallpaper, you will obtain an impeccable result that will transform your interior and reflect your style. Don't hesitate to take your time and ask for help if necessary, as wallpapering can be a rewarding, yet demanding project that requires patience and precision. Happy posing!