Wallpapering Tips for Beginners
Whether you’re thinking of wallpapering the whole room or just a wall, there are some wallpapering tips to get you started.
Wallpaper is making a comeback in a big way. Over the years, it’s been a favorite decorating tool for many due to its ability to bring color, texture and patterns to completely transform a room. It can make a small space feel bigger or make a large space feel cozier, but this isn’t your grandma’s wallpaper.
TL;DR
Transform your space with wallpaper by following key tips for success. Choose the right wallpaper for your room, prepare walls properly, and ensure precise application. Avoid common mistakes like skipping wall prep, using mismatched patterns, or overlooking lighting. Get it right the first time for a flawless finish.
Unlike paint, wallpaper stays on once you put it on and can last for a long time. It doesn’t mean that it has to be scary. In this post, we share some helpful wallpapering tips including how to select and instal wallpaper in your home, especially if this is your first time working with it.
Wallpapering tips: do this!
- ✅ Prepare your walls: Clean, smooth, and prime the walls for the best results.
- ✅ Choose the right wallpaper: Select a style, pattern, and material that fits your room's size and purpose.
- ✅ Order extra rolls: Buy more wallpaper than needed to account for mistakes or future repairs.
- ✅ Test with samples: Use samples to check patterns and colours in your lighting.
- ✅ Measure twice, cut once: Ensure accuracy to avoid wasting material.
- ✅ Start with a focal wall: Use bold patterns or textures as an accent before committing to the whole room.
Start with a plan
Like with any other home project, planning is critical. Spending time on careful selection and preparation will help you avoid making costly mistakes. Determine how much wallpaper you need and add a little extra to ensure you have enough when the rolls don’t match up with each other.
Wallpaper can be a small or a big DIY job, depending on the area you are applying it to and your experience. There are many tutorials out there to help you get started. You also need appropriate tools and materials to prep your wall and apply the wallpaper.
One of the most important wallpapering tips is to buy all the wallpaper at once and check that the rolls come from the same batch to ensure consistent color matching. Measure and cut all the strips before you start applying the wallpaper and practice lining up patterns on the floor.
While there are many YouTube videos that make it look easy, you shouldn’t apply wallpaper without first practicing on a smaller surface. A pro wallpapering tip is to never install wallpaper without first reading the instructions and prepping the walls. This will help the wallpaper stick and last much longer.
Choose a style that suits you and your home
Another important wallpapering tip is to always consider how the new wallpaper will complement other furniture and accessories in the room. You don’t want to apply the wallpaper and then realize that you have to change everything else in the room when you’re done.
There are many varieties of wallpaper to choose from that make it easy to adapt to existing styles. You can opt for damask or floral prints for more traditional styles and modern geometric patterns for an updated mid-century or Art Deco style. Textured wallpapers are great for adding interest to minimalistic design.
Start small and be selective
When you find that wallpaper pattern you absolutely love, it’s tempting to want it everywhere. However, if you’re new to the world of wallpapering, it’s better to side on the side of caution. Start with small spaces, like a bookshelf, a nook or a powder room. It’s a great way to practice your skills and an opportunity to decide whether you’re ready for more wallpaper.
Accent walls are also a great way to make a statement, so why not do it with wallpaper? Patterns draw attention, while textures add dimension and create a refined appearance. Use bold, bright colors and creative designs to add a focal point to your room.
Wallpapering tips: don't do this!
- 🚫 Skip wall prep: Avoid applying wallpaper on dirty, uneven, or unprimed walls.
- 🚫 Ignore lighting: Don't forget to test how your wallpaper looks under different lighting conditions.
- 🚫 Mismatch patterns: Be careful when aligning patterns to ensure seamless joins.
- 🚫 Apply in high-humidity areas: Avoid using non-waterproof wallpaper in bathrooms or kitchens.
- 🚫 Rush the process: Take your time for precise cuts and alignment.
- 🚫 Overlook maintenance: Know how to clean and care for your wallpaper to keep it looking fresh.
Conclusion
Today, wallpapers come in new designs, textures and finishes available that can be a beautiful addition to any room in your home. Whether you’re thinking of wallpapering the whole room or just a wall, consider this wallpapering tips to make sure you get the most out of this decorating trend.
Wallpaper is a great way to add personality and liven up your space. It’s also a fun and creative way to add dimension to your home. We hope our tips have addressed some of your concerns and will help you incorporate wallpaper in your home. Remember, have fun with it and enjoy the process.
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