How to hang paste the wall wallpaper

Study decorated with paste to wall wallpaper for this hanging guide by Milola Design

Many modern wallpapers including our own are printed on non woven paper and are referred to as paste the wall wallpapers. 

What does "paste the wall" mean? 

Unlike traditional wallpaper hanging techniques where paste was applied to the wallpaper before hanging, paste the wall wallpapers are hung by applying the paste directly onto the wall instead. 

Benefits of paste the wall wallpaper

Applying the wallpaper paste to the wall rather than the paper is easier, quicker and cleaner. It allows much more flexibility when lining up the paper to pattern match as well as getting a neat, tight seam for a professional finish.

Equipment for hanging paste to wall wallpaper

For the best finish we recommend the following wallpapering equipment.

  • Tape measure
  • Spirit level
  • Pencil
  • Paste to wall wallpaper paste & bucket
  • Roller and tray
  • Paste brush
  • Paper smoother
  • Stanley knife
  • Small stepladder

Wall preparation before wallpapering

For the best finish, be sure to fill holes and gaps and sand down for a nice smooth surface. Even the highest quality wallpaper won't be able to hide an uneven surface. Make sure any filler is completely dry before starting to hang the wallpaper.

Make sure any dust or debris and any previous paper strippings are removed to prevent bumps and improve the effectiveness of the adhesive paste. If the wall is painted, a light rub down with sand paper will give the adhesive something to stick to. We recommend washing the walls with sugar soap to remove any residues and dust.

If the walls are in generally good condition you shouldn't need to use lining paper especially if the wallpaper is high quality like our own.

 

Getting started hanging your paste the wall wallpaper

Once your walls have been prepared, start by using a spirit level to draw a line vertically down from the ceiling, this will help your make sure your first drop of wallpaper is straight which is very important.

Decide on your pattern placement and measure the drop from the ceiling to skirting allowing extra wallpaper at either end. You might find it helpful to mark on the back of the paper which way up the pattern goes to avoid hanging the wallpaper the wrong way round. Carefully cut your first drop of wallpaper and have it ready to hang.

Using your paste brush or roller apply a thin layer of adhesive paste to the wall and apply your paper in the desired position. Once in position smooth the paper down removing any trapped air. 

Vines paste to wall wallpaper being applied to the wall | Milola Design

Pattern matching Vines wallpaper

Trim the excess paper from the top and bottom using a sharp knife.

You are now able to prepare your next drop of wallpaper taking into account pattern matching and repeat the process. Be sure to clean away any excess paste between the seams with a sponge.

Wallpapering tips for a professional looking finish

When cutting around light and electrical sockets, leave a little extra paper, loosen the socket fixings and tuck the paper underneath before tightening up the socket again with the wallpaper underneath.

 

Allow at least 10cm extra wallpaper to go behind radiators.

Ceilings can often be at different heights within the same room, especially in period buildings. Be sure to allow extra wallpaper at either end of each drop panel in case of height variations.

Hanging Dark wallpaper tips

If you're using a dark wallpaper, sometimes the seams can show the wall behind or the lighter edge of the paper creating a white line at the seam.

To avoid this, keep your seams as tight as possible. You may wish to paint a dark stripe on the wall behind each seam in a matching dark coloured paint to avoid any lighter wall showing through.   

How to hang dark wallpaper - Milola Design

Dark wallpaper  - Riding School Black
As most wallpapers are printed on light paper, sometimes the unprinted white side can show at the seam. A trick is before unrolling and cutting your dark wallpaper, is to colour the edge of the paper with a matching felt pen or pencil to darken the edge without colouring the face of the paper. This is something you can test out and is a trick to use if you feel that there is a light line showing as you butt the edges. 
Dark wallpaper with no white seams  - Hanging tips | Milola Design

 

These easy tips could help you to avoid ugly white lines on every seam when hanging dark wallpaper. 

Non woven, paste the wall wallpaper is the easiest wallpaper to hang. Wallpapering has never been easier!

To find paste the wall wallpaper ideas view our collections HERE