How to hang wallpaper: Practical guide to apply it perfectly

Transform your home with creativity and elegance! Nothing updates a space as practically and charmingly as wallpaper. With patterns ranging from modern to classic, this versatile solution is perfect for adding personality to walls, creating unique atmospheres and completely transforming any space, without the need for complicated renovations or exorbitant investments.

But, to obtain the result of your dreams, it is essential to know how to apply the paper correctly and with due attention. After all, poor application can compromise the beauty and durability of the project. This guide is designed specifically to help you simplify the process, providing valuable advice on how to choose the ideal paper, prepare the surface, apply with precision and ensure a flawless finish.

With the right guidance you can get your hands dirty and create an environment that reflects your style and personality. Ready to transform your walls and make your home even more incredible? So let’s go!

Learn how to hang wallpaper

Whether you want to create a modern, welcoming or sophisticated look, wallpaper is a practical and affordable solution. However, to guarantee an impeccable result, it is essential to follow some important steps, from the choice of material to the final finishes. You’ll learn everything you need to wallpaper like a pro, easily and efficiently. Ready to transform your walls? Let’s get started!

Photo: reproduction

See: How to clean white baseboards

Choose the ideal background

The first step is to select the wallpaper that best suits your space and style. If the space is small, choose subtle prints or light colors to visually enlarge the space. In large environments, you can use large prints and more vibrant colors to create impact. Also, choose the right material: vinyl papers are durable and easy to clean, making them perfect for environments such as kitchens and bathrooms, while traditional paper models work well in living rooms and bedrooms.

Prepare the necessary tools

Before you get started, make sure you have everything you need on hand. A utility knife or scissors will be essential for cutting paper; tape measure will help to measure accurately; and a ruler or plastic spatula will ensure the paper is applied evenly, without bubbles. Furthermore, equip yourself with suitable glue for non-self-adhesive paper, a dry cloth to smooth it and a ladder if you will apply the paper on higher walls.

Prepare the wall

Wall preparation is essential to ensure that the wallpaper has good adhesion and a perfect finish. Start by cleaning the surface, removing dirt, dust and peeling paint. If there are holes or imperfections, cover them with putty and sand until the wall is uniform. If the wall is painted with high-gloss paint, sand lightly to help the paper stick. Make sure the wall is dry before starting the application.

Measure and cut the background

Once the wall is prepared, it’s time to measure and cut the wallpaper. Measure the height of the wall and add approximately 5 cm more to facilitate adjustments during application. In the case of patterned paper, pay attention to the alignment of the design to ensure a harmonious appearance. Carefully cut each strip, making sure they are all the same length and ready to apply.

Apply the wallpaper

Now comes the most practical part! If the paper is traditional, apply the glue evenly to the back or directly to the wall, depending on the manufacturer’s directions. If it is self-adhesive, remove the adhesive little by little as you apply the paper to the wall. Start from top to bottom and level with the spatula to avoid air bubbles, always moving from the center towards the edges. Work slowly, adjusting as necessary.

Make the finishes

With the paper already applied, finish by trimming excess around the edges, such as baseboards, corners, sockets and switches. Use a utility knife to ensure precise, clean cuts. If bubbles appear, pierce them with a thin needle and level with the spatula. This extra care ensures a professional finish and flawless appearance.

Extra tips for a perfect result

Applying wallpaper can be easier and more fun if done in pairs: while one person holds the paper and aligns it, the other smooths it and removes bubbles. Avoid walls with infiltrations or humidity as they could compromise durability

Be careful when applying wallpaper

We’ll tell you everything you need to know to avoid common mistakes and achieve flawless results. Let’s discover together the essential measures for a good application of your wallpaper!

Find out: How to install polystyrene skirting boards

Alignment is everything!

One of the biggest secrets to perfect wallpaper is alignment. This is even more important if you have chosen a model with continuous prints, such as stripes or flowers, which must connect between the straps. A small deviation can ruin the entire look, leaving the room looking unkempt. To avoid this, use tools like a level or draw guidelines on the wall with a pencil, making sure everything is in the right place from the start.

Pay attention to the time

Weather can be an ally or a villain when applying wallpaper. On very humid or rainy days, the humidity in the air can make it difficult for the glue to adhere, causing bubbles and even detachment of the edges. On extremely hot days, the glue can dry too quickly, preventing necessary adjustments. The ideal is to apply the paper on a day with mild weather and good ventilation, making sure that the environment is in perfect conditions for work.

Prepare or environment

Before you begin, make sure the space is ready to receive the document. Remove nearby furniture to have more freedom of movement and prevent objects from disturbing the process. Another fundamental precaution is to turn off the electricity when dealing with wall sockets and switches, ensuring your safety while working. This simple preparation avoids mishaps and makes application much easier.

Patience in the corners and details

Wall corners and areas near baseboards, outlets and switches require special attention. These details are crucial to a flawless finish, so spend extra time on them. Use a very sharp utility knife to cut the paper precisely, and if necessary, take detailed measurements before applying the paper to those parts. Working calmly and patiently is the key to avoiding mistakes and ensuring a professional appearance.

Find out: How to install wooden skirting boards

So, did you like it?

Have you made it this far? Take this opportunity to leave your feedback on today’s content!

On Rodapé Shop we have a selection of high quality products that will add charm and functionality to your environments.

Be sure to explore our latest releases and get inspired by the latest decorating trends, all of which you can find here on our blog.

Thank you for visiting Rodapé Shop! Stay tuned for our updates!

Frequently asked questions

What is the best wall to apply wallpaper to?

The best wall to apply wallpaper to is a clean, dry and smooth surface. If the wall is badly damaged or has an uneven finish, it may be necessary to prepare the wall before applying the paper, using filler to correct the imperfections. Avoid applying wallpaper to walls with humidity or infiltrations, as this could compromise the adhesion and durability of the product.

How to calculate the amount of wallpaper needed?

To calculate the amount of wallpaper required, measure the height and width of the wall. Multiplying the height by the width gives you the area of ​​the wall. Next, check the wallpaper roll’s specifications, which generally tell you the square footage covered by each roll. Remember to add a little extra to make up for any misalignment or cuts.

Can I apply the wallpaper myself?

Yes, you can apply wallpaper yourself, but it is advisable to have someone to help you, especially on large or high walls. Having a second person hold the paper while you straighten it makes the process easier and ensures that the alignment is perfect. Plus, having someone else’s help makes the application faster and more efficient.