Traditional Wallpaper Installation

Step 1: Prep Your Walls

Create the perfect surface by ensuring your wall is clean, dry, and smooth. Remove any old wallpaper, fill holes, and sand down any bumps. For the best results, consider applying a wallpaper liner and primer, like Shieldz Universal Wallcovering Primer, to improve adhesion and make future removal easier. Avoid applying wallpaper to freshly painted walls—let the paint cure for at least four weeks.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

Get everything ready before you start! You’ll need: Wallpaper, wallpaper paste (such as Roman PRO-880), measuring tape, scissors, drop cloth, sponge, bucket, straightedge, pencil, level, craft knife with extra blades, paint roller and tray, smoothing tool, step ladder, and an apron or clothing with pockets.

Step 3: Measure and Cut Strips

Measure your wall height and cut wallpaper strips, leaving an extra inch or two at the top and bottom for trimming. Be mindful of pattern placement, ensuring the first strip is cut in a way that aligns properly at the top. Inspect each roll for defects before starting.

Step 4: Mark Your Starting Point

Measure the width of your wallpaper roll and use a plumb line to draw a vertical guideline. Start from a corner, leaving about an inch for trimming.

Step 5: Apply the Paste

Spread wallpaper paste evenly across the back of the pre-cut strip, ensuring full coverage from edge to edge.

Step 6: Book the Wallpaper

Gently fold the pasted strip so that the top and bottom edges meet in the center. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes to allow the paste to absorb and the paper to expand.

Step 7: Position and Smooth

Align the first strip with your plumb line, leaving a little extra at the top for trimming. Press the wallpaper onto the wall from top to bottom, smoothing it out from the center toward the edges with a wallpaper brush or smoothing tool.

Step 8: Trim the Edges

Use a straightedge and a sharp craft knife to carefully trim the excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboard. Replace the blade frequently for clean cuts and to prevent tearing.

Step 9: Apply Remaining Strips

Continue applying strips, making sure to match the pattern and butt seams tightly together without overlapping. Smooth out air bubbles as you go, and wipe away excess paste with a damp sponge. After hanging two strips, step back and inspect for any issues.

Step 10: Post-Application Care

Keep your wallpaper looking fresh by gently wiping away any paste residue with a soft, damp cloth. Our wallpapers are washable—use mild detergent and a damp sponge for cleaning. While suitable for most areas, high-humidity spaces may require extra care to ensure longevity.