Wallpaper 101- Everything you need to know

Wallpaper 101- Everything You Need to Know to Wallpaper Any Space

It’s safe to say, I LOVE wallpaper. Honestly, sometimes I even wonder if I’m using too much—but then I remind myself: you can never have too much wallpaper! From modern murals to classic florals, wallpaper is one of the easiest DIY projects that can completely transform any space. Whether you’re updating a mudroom, bedroom, or playroom, a well-chosen wallpaper makes a huge impact in just a few hours.

Over the years, I’ve learned through trial and error how to make wallpaper look professional, even as a DIYer. While I wouldn’t call it an expert-level project, there are some key steps and insider tips that make all the difference. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to wallpaper any room confidently.

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Step 1: Prep Your Wall

Preparation is the most important step in wallpapering. A smooth, clean, and dry wall ensures the wallpaper adheres properly and lasts for years. Here’s what to do:

Apply wallpaper primer or sizing if your wallpaper or wall requires it. This not only helps the paper stick but also makes future removal easier. While this step is very unsatisfying (lol) it is quick and necessary!
Remove nails, outlet covers, and switch plates. Any obstacles can interfere with smooth application.
Fill holes or imperfections with spackle, then sand smooth.
Clean the wall to remove dust, grease, or debris. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth works wonders.

💡 Pro tip: Even small bumps or uneven patches can show through thinner wallpapers, so take your time smoothing the wall.

Step 2: Measure and Mark

Accurate measurements are key to a professional-looking wallpaper installation.

Measure your wall height and width, including doorways, windows, and corners. When measuring, account for doorways and windows, as wallpaper will go around them. Some sections, like above doors and windows, may be “wasted” when trimmed. In this photo, the red shows a full panel, while the blue represents excess that gets cut off but must still be included in your measurements.
Use a level and pencil to draw a vertical guideline for your first panel. This ensures your first strip is perfectly straight—even if your walls aren’t level.

Tips for Perfect Seams:

If your wallpaper is 20 inches wide, mark a line 19 inches from your starting point. Line up your paper with this mark and trim the extra later. Uneven walls are the biggest culprit for crooked wallpaper, so starting straight is critical.
For darker wallpaper, consider painting the seam lines the same color as the paper. I did this with black wallpaper in both my mudroom and my son’s bedroom. It prevents light-colored gaps from showing through.

Step 3: Cut Your Wallpaper

Cutting the wallpaper properly sets you up for smooth installation:

Add a few extra inches at the top and bottom to trim later.
Match patterns carefully before cutting the next panel.
Follow instructions for pre-pasted or traditional wallpaper. Pre-pasted wallpaper usually needs soaking; unpasted wallpaper requires applying paste to the back or directly to the wall.

💡 Expert tip: If your paper has a bold or complex pattern, always lay out multiple strips on the floor to check alignment before applying.

Step 4: Apply the First Strip

Now it’s time to bring your wall to life!

Align the edge of your wallpaper with your guideline.
Smooth from top to bottom using a wallpaper smoothing tool or a clean sponge to remove bubbles and wrinkles.
Leave extra paper at the top and bottom to trim later.

💡 Pro tip: Work slowly and start at the top. Gravity can cause bubbles or sagging if you rush.

Step 5: Trim and Tuck

After smoothing, it’s time for a clean finish:

Use a sharp utility knife and straight edge to trim excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboards.
Press the paper gently into corners and edges before cutting.

Timing tip: Let the wallpaper dry slightly before trimming. Wet paper can tear or cut unevenly. Trimming the entire wall at once creates more consistent results than cutting in small sections.

Step 6: Line Up the Next Panel

For a seamless look, carefully align the next strip:

Match the pattern to the previous panel.
Overlap slightly if the manufacturer recommends it, or butt seams tightly if instructed.
Smooth out air bubbles and wipe off excess paste with a damp sponge. Tip: Some wallpapers, like grasscloth, require a dry sponge—check the instructions to avoid mistakes.

Repeat these steps until your wall is fully covered.

Finishing Touches

Press down seams with a seam roller if necessary.
Reattach outlet covers and switch plates once the wallpaper has dried.
Step back and admire your transformed wall! A well-installed wallpaper instantly elevates any room.