How To: Install Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Whether you're a first-time decorator or a seasoned DIYer, installing peel-and-stick wallpaper is a breeze, and we're here to guide you through the process with easy-to-follow tips and a dash of creative inspiration. Get ready to transform your walls into a canvas of style and charm with our step-by-step guide to hassle-free peel-and-stick wallpaper installation. Let's bring your vision to life, one peel at a time!
The Roman philosopher Seneca said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” So when you get the opportunity to use your dream wallpaper you’ll have the best luck with the right preparation. I have an entire blog post about prepping your walls for wallpaper so I’ll give you the skinny here. You will want to spackle any cracks and holes as well as sand down any bumps for a smooth finish. Next you should clean your walls. After you have spackled and sanded there will be dust particles on the wall you don't want to paint or install over. Now it is time to prime! Eggshell, semi-gloss and satin finish seem to work best with wallpaper.
If you walls are already painted make sure it is not a latex paint since it is likely to tear the paint when the wallpaper is removed. Also avoid using wipeable paint since it is literally designed so that nothing sticks to it (including wallpaper). It can take paint up to 30 days to fully cure so you will want to paint at least a month before putting up your wallpaper.
Now that your walls are prepped and ready its time for you to wallpaper! Starting out with a straight line in an inconspicuous corner of the room is best. Almost no home has actually straight walls and wallpaper can extenuate those uneven walls. Use a regular level and pencil or a lazer level to help you place your first roll. Before placing your wallpaper roll make your life a little easier and measure your wall first. Add 2-3 inches to that number and cut your wallpaper while its not on your wall. Dont take off the entire backing of your wallpaper, instead peel back only 6 inches to a foot off at a time so you dont accidentally stick a piece of the wallpaper roll to the wrong part of your wall (or worst they stick together) Starting from the top leave an inch of over hang and work down keeping your paper lined up with the line you made with your level. Once you’ve reach the bottom of your wall use a utility knife for a clean cut. Also dont forget the cut the top over hang. Now you will repeat those steps for each roll butting up your wallpaper to create a seamless repeat across the wall.
Wallpapering can become messy even with peel and stick wallpaper. Taking small breaks not only for your shoulders but also to clean up your space of scraps and tools helps not only keep the work area safe but also can stop visual overwhelm. Patience is key for a professional looking finish. There is nothing wrong with having to pull up and restick parts of your roll to create the pattern perfectly. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take breaks. It's important to stay focused and enjoy the process. Check your alignment periodically as you move through the room. Stepping back and seeing the entire wall will help you see the big picture and adjust as needed.
Peel and stick is an easy wallpaper to put up. Taking your time and prep your space will guarantee a quality and professional looking install.