How to Change Wallpaper: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you tired of staring at the same old wallpaper? Does your room need a fresh new look? Changing the wallpaper is the perfect way to give your space a makeover. If you're a DIY enthusiast looking to take on a fun project, this guide is for you. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps to change wallpaper and transform your room with ease.

Gather the Right Tools and Materials

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. You'll need:

• Wallpaper of your choice
• Wallpaper adhesive
• Wallpaper primer
• Measuring tape
• Utility knife
• Sponge
• Smoothing brush
• Bucket of water
• Sandpaper (if needed)

Having these items handy will ensure a smooth and hassle-free wallpaper removal and installation process.

Preparing the Wall

Before you can start hanging the new wallpaper, it's important to prepare the wall properly to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish.

1. Clean the wall: Remove any dirt, dust, or grease from the surface using a sponge and mild detergent.
2. Repair any damages: Patch up any holes, cracks, or imperfections on the wall using spackling compound or filler. Sand the patched area until it's smooth and even with the rest of the wall.
3. Prime the wall: Apply a coat of wallpaper primer to promote adhesion and create a smooth surface for the wallpaper to adhere to. Let the primer dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Removing the Old Wallpaper

If you're changing wallpaper, chances are you already have existing wallpaper on your walls. Here's how you can remove it:

1. Start at the edges: Use a utility knife to score the wallpaper along the edges of the wall.
2. Soak the wallpaper: Using a sponge, apply a wallpaper stripping solution or a mixture of warm water and vinegar to the wallpaper. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive.
3. Peel off the wallpaper: Gently peel off the wallpaper using your hands or a putty knife. If the wallpaper doesn't come off easily, resoak it and try again.
4. Clean the wall: Once all the wallpaper is removed, clean the wall thoroughly to get rid of any residue. Use a sponge and warm water to wipe down the surface.

Hanging the New Wallpaper

Now that the walls are ready, it's time to hang your new wallpaper and give your room a fresh look.

Keep in mind that every wallpaper product may have specific instructions, so make sure to read and follow the manufacturer's guidelines. Here are some general steps to help you:

Measuring and Cutting the Wallpaper

Measure the height of your wall and cut the wallpaper into strips, leaving a few inches of excess at the top and bottom for trimming.

Make sure to match the patterns if your wallpaper has any. Use a straight edge and a utility knife to cut the wallpaper strips along the measured marks.

Label each strip at the top to keep track of the installation order.

Applying the Wallpaper

Follow these steps to apply the wallpaper to the wall:

1. Apply adhesive: Using a roller or a brush, apply wallpaper adhesive to the back of the wallpaper strip. Make sure to cover the entire surface evenly.
2. Position the strip: Starting from the top, carefully position the wallpaper strip onto the wall, aligning it with your guidelines. Leave a few inches of excess at the top and bottom for trimming.
3. Smooth out air bubbles: Use a smoothing brush or sponge to gently smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles. Work from the center of the strip towards the edges.
4. Trim the excess: Once the strip is aligned and smoothed out, use a utility knife to trim the excess wallpaper at the top and bottom. Repeat these steps for each strip until the wall is fully covered.

Cleaning Up and Final Touches

Congratulations! You've successfully changed your wallpaper. Here are the final steps to complete the process:

Cleaning up

Wipe down any excess adhesive with a damp sponge, taking care not to damage the wallpaper. Remove any adhesive from the trims or baseboards with a clean, damp cloth.

Finishing touches

Inspect the wallpaper for any visible seams or gaps. Use a seam roller to press down and ensure a tight fit. If necessary, apply touch-up paint to the trims and baseboards to complete the look.

Changing wallpaper can instantly transform the look and feel of any room. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve professional-looking results. Follow this step-by-step guide and let your creativity shine as you create a space that truly reflects your style.