1. Preparation of the necessary tools
Before you begin, make sure you have all the tools you need to hang your wallpaper efficiently. Here is a list of basic equipment:
- Wallpaper (make sure you have enough rolls)
- Wallpaper paste or suitable glue (depending on the type of paper)
- Wallpapering table or flat surface for spreading the paper
- Metal ruler or set square
- Sharp knife or box cutter
- Glue brush
- Smoothing brush (for smoothing the paper)
- Joint roller (for finishing)
- Scissors
- Damp sponge or clean cloth
- Pencil and tape measure
- Spirit level or plumb line
2. Preparing the walls
Before hanging wallpaper, the surface of the walls must be clean, dry, smooth and free of imperfections. Here are the steps to properly prepare your wall:
- Removing old wallpaper : If you already have wallpaper on the wall, carefully remove it using hot water or a steam stripper.
- Smooth the surface : Fill any cracks or holes with filler, then sand the walls to remove any rough spots.
- Clean the wall : Clean the walls to remove any dust or grease that could prevent the wallpaper from sticking. Let it dry completely before starting.
3. Measuring and cutting the wallpaper
Before hanging your wallpaper, it is essential to measure and cut the strips (wallpaper strips) to the right length. Follow these steps:
- Measure the height of the wall : Use a tape measure to measure the height of the wall and add about 10 cm of margin (5 cm at the top and bottom for adjustments).
- Cutting the strips : Place the roll of wallpaper on a table and cut the first strip according to the measurements taken. If your wallpaper has patterns to match, make sure to align the patterns between the strips.
4. Apply the glue
There are two main types of wallpaper: paste-the-wall wallpaper and non-woven wallpaper, where the paste is applied directly to the wall. Follow the method that is appropriate for your type of wallpaper:
- Classic wallpaper : Spread the paste evenly on the back of the paper using a paste brush. Fold the pasted paper (edge to edge) without creasing it and let it sit for a few minutes so that the paste penetrates.
- Non-woven wallpaper : Apply the paste directly to the wall using a roller or a wide brush. Spread the paste evenly over a surface wider than the width of the paper.
5. Put up the wallpaper
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Draw a vertical line : To lay your first strip straight, draw a vertical line using a level or plumb line. This will ensure that your paper is aligned properly.
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Laying the first strip : Place the top of the first strip, leaving a margin of a few centimeters above the wall. Align it carefully along your vertical line, then gently let the rest of the strip fall.
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Smooth the paper : Use a smoothing brush to smooth the paper from top to bottom and from the center to the edges. This removes air bubbles and ensures good adhesion.
6. Marouflage and adjustment
Once the strip is in place, you will need to adjust and smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles. Here's how to do it:
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Removing Bubbles : Use the smoothing brush or a clean cloth to gently press and smooth out air bubbles from the center of the strip toward the edges.
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Trim Excess : Use a sharp knife to trim excess paper along the ceiling and baseboards. Make sure the paper is firmly stuck down before making these cuts for a clean result.
7. Lay the other strips
Once the first strip is laid, you can continue with the others:
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Aligning the patterns : If your wallpaper has patterns, make sure to align the patterns between the strips. If you used a special paste, you will have some time to adjust before the paste dries.
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Marouflage between the strips : Use a seam roller to gently press the edges between two strips. This helps avoid excess thickness or overlaps.
8. Cleaning and finishing
- Clean up excess glue : Use a damp sponge to wipe away any excess glue that may leak from the joints between the strips.
- Check for bubbles or wrinkles : Before the glue dries completely, make sure all air bubbles have been removed and the paper is smooth.
9. Additional tips for successful installation
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Start in the right place : It is generally advisable to start hanging wallpaper in a corner or near a door. This helps to hide any possible matching errors at the end of the installation.
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Work in pairs : Hanging wallpaper can be easier with a second person to hold the strips while you adjust them.
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Check the lighting : Natural or artificial lighting in the room can reveal small imperfections. Take the time to check that the paper is properly laid under different lights.
Conclusion
Wallpapering is a great way to transform the look of a room, and by following these steps you can achieve a professional result. With the right preparation and a little patience, your new wallpaper will add charm and character to your home. Remember to choose the right type of wallpaper according to your needs and the mood you want to create in the room!