How to Install Wallpaper (Peel & Stick and Paste the Wall)

Before You Begin

Make sure the wall surface is clean, dry, and smooth. Remove any dust, dirt, or grease so the adhesive sticks properly. Clean the wall with mild soap and water and allow it to dry completely.

1. Plan Your Layout

Measure the height and width of the wall and decide where each panel will go. Start from a straight edge or corner. Draw a straight vertical guideline about one wallpaper width from the corner so the first panel hangs straight.

2. Peel Back a Small Section of Backing

Take the first wallpaper panel and peel back a small portion of the backing paper from the top. Do not remove the entire backing at once. Only peel enough to position the top of the panel on the wall.

3. Place the Top of the Panel

Align the top edge of the wallpaper with the wall, keeping it straight. Press the exposed adhesive section gently onto the wall to hold it in place before continuing.

4. Slowly Peel and Press Down

As you slowly remove more of the backing paper, smooth the wallpaper down using your hand or a smoothing tool. Work from the center outward to remove air bubbles and ensure proper adhesion.

5. Smooth Out Air Pockets

Use a plastic smoother or a credit card to press the wallpaper firmly onto the wall. Move slowly and push any air bubbles toward the edges. If bubbles remain, you can gently lift and reposition the panel before the adhesive fully sets.

6. Align the Next Panels

Line up the pattern of the next panel so it matches the first one. Place the panels edge to edge without overlapping. Continue peeling and smoothing each panel until the wall is fully covered.

7. Trim Excess

Once all panels are installed, trim any extra material at the top and bottom using a sharp utility knife or box cutter for a clean and finished look.

Before You Begin

Walls must be smooth, dry, clean, and properly primed. Use wallpaper paste that is suitable for non-woven materials.

Step 1: Apply Paste to the Wall

Apply paste evenly to the wall using a roller or paint brush. Paste only the area needed for one panel at a time so the adhesive does not dry out.

Step 2: Hang the First Panel

Place the first wallpaper panel directly onto the pasted wall. Align it vertically and smooth it from top to bottom to remove air pockets.

NOTE: Does your wallpaper have a white border edge?

If your wallpaper has a white border, it is a double cut wallpaper and requires a specific installation method.

Double cutting involves overlapping two wallpaper panels and cutting through both layers at the same time. This creates a clean edge so the panels join perfectly without visible seams. This method is especially important for custom wallpaper designs where pattern alignment matters.

Double Cut Installation Steps:

1. Clean the wall surface to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Install the wallpaper panels with an overlap. Each panel typically has a 1-inch overlap on the left and right edges.

3. Using a straight edge as a guide, cut down the center of the overlap with a sharp razor blade. Cut through both layers.

4. Peel away the excess material from the top layer.

5. Lift the top panel slightly and remove the excess material from the bottom layer.

6. Smooth both layers back together using a squeegee to create a clean butt seam.

7. Repeat this process for each seam until the mural is fully installed. Use a fresh blade for every seam to ensure a clean cut.

Step 3: Install Remaining Panels

Place the next panel edge to edge with the previous one. Align the design carefully and press the seams firmly.

Step 4: Smooth and Clean

Use a smoothing tool to ensure full adhesion. Wipe away any excess paste on the wallpaper surface immediately using a damp cloth so it does not leave marks after drying.

Step 5: Trim Excess

Once the panels are set, trim the top and bottom edges using a sharp blade for a neat and finished look.