Wallpapering Skills – Detailed Explanation

Module 4: Wallpapering Skills

Types of Wallpaper: Vinyl, Textured, Patterned, Removable

Wallpaper selection depends on durability, aesthetics, and application environment:

• Vinyl Wallpaper: The most durable and washable, ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. It consists of a paper or fabric backing with a PVC layer, making it resistant to moisture and stains.

• Textured Wallpaper: Embossed or fiber-based, it adds depth to walls and can mimic materials like linen, silk, or brick. Often used to conceal minor wall imperfections.

• Patterned Wallpaper: Features repeating designs (florals, geometrics, stripes) and requires precise pattern matching during installation. Traditional types include flocked and damask styles.

• Removable (Peel-and-Stick) Wallpaper: A self-adhesive, renter-friendly option that installs without paste and can be repositioned. Best for temporary décor but may lack durability.

Specialty types include grasscloth (natural fibers), mural wallpapers (custom scenic designs), and moisture-resistant variants for humid climates.

Measuring & Cutting: Pattern Matching and Waste Calculation

Accurate measuring minimizes waste and ensures seamless pattern alignment:

1. Wall Measurement: Measure wall height and width, adding 4-6 inches extra per strip for trimming. For patterned paper, note the pattern repeat (e.g., every 20 inches) to calculate additional lengths needed.

2. Cutting Strips: Roll out the wallpaper on a clean table, align the pattern, and cut strips to the measured length. Label the back of each strip to maintain order.

3. Waste Calculation: For large repeats, expect 15–20% waste. Use offcuts for smaller wall sections or above/below windows.

Pro Tip: Batch-cut all strips before pasting to ensure consistency and avoid mid-job errors.

Hanging Techniques: Paste-the-Wall vs. Paste-the-Paper, Avoiding Bubbles/Creases

Application methods vary by wallpaper type:

• Paste-the-Wall Paper: Pre-pasted or designed to adhere to pre-coated walls. Roll paste directly onto the wall, then apply the dry paper. Ideal for beginners and heavy vinyls.

• Paste-the-Paper: Traditional method where paste is applied to the back of each strip, which is then "booked" (folded paste-side in) to activate adhesive before hanging. Best for delicate papers like grasscloth.

Steps for Flawless Hanging:

1. Start Plumb: Use a spirit level to draw a vertical guideline. First strips must be perfectly straight to prevent cascading misalignment.

2. Smoothing Technique: Hang from the top, brushing outward with a wallpaper smoother to eliminate bubbles. Use a seam roller for edges (avoid textured papers).

3. Avoiding Bubbles/Creases: Work systematically from the center outward. For stubborn bubbles, puncture with a pin and smooth gently.

Common Pitfalls:

• Overlapping seams (always butt edges tightly).

• Overworking the paper (can stretch or tear delicate types).

• Inadequate booking time (causes expansion/uneven adhesion).

Conclusion

Wallpapering demands precision in material selection, measurement, and technique. Mastering these skills ensures professional, long-lasting results—whether for bold feature walls or subtle textures.