Wallpaper is one of the most effective ways to transform a room. Compared to paint, it offers richer textures, striking patterns, and a more personalized atmosphere. But achieving a flawless result depends heavily on using the right tools and following the correct installation steps. Investing in quality tools not only saves you time but also prevents costly rework later.
This guide breaks down the complete wallpaper installation process—from preparation and measuring to handling tricky areas like corners, doors, and windows—so you can achieve a professional-looking finish at home.
Essential Wallpaper Installation Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have these tools ready:
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Tape measure
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Pencil
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Spirit level
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Wallpaper scissors
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Pasting table
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Glue bucket
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Pasting brush
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Wallpaper smoothing brush
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Seam roller
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Utility knife or wallpaper knife
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Overlap adhesive (for washable or PVC wallpaper)
Preparing the Walls
Smooth and Clean Surfaces
Walls must be smooth, dry, and free of grease or loose paint. Never apply new wallpaper over old wallpaper, as the glue will not bond properly.
If your wall is painted, use a small brush to paint a narrow strip of color (matching the wallpaper) along the ceiling and skirting board edges—this hides any imperfect cutting.
Measuring and Calculating Wallpaper Rolls
The most common roll size is 530mm width × 10.5m length, but some cheaper or specialty papers vary. Always check the packaging.
Quick Wallpaper Roll Reference
| Room Perimeter | Height 2.3–2.4m | Height 2.4–2.6m | Height 2.6–2.7m |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10m | 5 rolls | 5 rolls | 6 rolls |
| 12m | 6 rolls | 6 rolls | 7 rolls |
| 14m | 7 rolls | 7 rolls | 8 rolls |
| 16m | 8 rolls | 8 rolls | 9 rolls |
| 18m | 9 rolls | 9 rolls | 10 rolls |
| 20m | 10 rolls | 10 rolls | 11 rolls |
💡 Pro Tip:
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Always check that all rolls are from the same batch number to avoid color variation.
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Don’t buy exactly to measurement—allow for waste around windows and doors. It’s safer to buy an extra roll for repairs or replacements.
Planning Patterns and Measurements
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Random patterns: Easy to install with minimal waste.
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Regular patterns: Require matching, which increases cutting waste.
When measuring wall height, take multiple points around the room and use the highest point as reference. Add at least +100mm (4 inches) for trimming. If pattern matching is needed, allow extra.
Starting Point and Installation Order
Direction
If the room has no fireplace or focal wall, it’s best to work clockwise.
First Strip Placement
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With a fireplace or large feature wall: Start at the center to ensure symmetry.
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Without a focal point: Start on a wall without windows.
⚠️ Important: Room corners are rarely perfectly vertical. The first strip must be perfectly plumb to ensure the rest stays aligned.
Creating a Plumb Line
Measure “wallpaper width – 25mm” from the corner and draw a vertical line using a spirit level. The first strip should wrap around the corner by 25mm.
Pasting and Booking
Mixing Adhesive
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Tie a string to the glue bucket handle to rest your brush neatly.
Applying Paste
Brush from the center outwards, fold the pasted strip (paste-to-paste) for easier handling. You can paste 3–4 strips in advance if they fit on the pasting table.
Booking Time
Some wallpapers require a short rest after pasting before hanging—always check the label.
Step-by-Step Wallpaper Hanging
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Align & Smooth: Place the first strip along the plumb line. Smooth from the center outwards to remove bubbles.
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Trim Edges: Press the paper into ceiling and skirting edges, mark with the back of scissors, then cut along the crease.
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Corners: Wrap 25mm around the corner. Cut vertically at 5–10mm above/below, then overlap with the next strip.
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Continue Hanging: Ensure each new strip aligns vertically with the previous one.
Tricks for Difficult Areas
External Corners
Same method as internal corners—wrap 25mm, then continue with a plumb line.
Switches & Sockets
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Switch off power.
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Mark four corners, cut diagonally, tuck edges under.
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Remove faceplate, apply wallpaper, trim, then refit faceplate.
Windows & Doors
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Cut and fold edges around frames before applying the next full strip.
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Try to keep patterns symmetrical on both sides of the window/door.
Arches
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Apply wallpaper over the curve with 25–40mm extra.
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Snip small triangles into the overlap and fold neatly inside the arch.
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Cover inner arch with small vertical strips.
Radiators
Ideally, remove the radiator. If not possible, cut around brackets and smooth wallpaper behind with a seam roller.
Time-Saving Hacks
Pour adhesive into a roller tray and use a long-pile roller instead of a brush. This speeds up pasting significantly.
Common Problems & Fixes
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Loose seams in corners
→ Use overlap adhesive for PVC wallpaper, or reapply paste and roll firmly. -
Stains appearing through wallpaper
→ Indicates wall contamination (oil, water, smoke). Use a stain-blocking primer before papering. -
Bubbles forming after application
→ Caused by uneven paste or damp walls. Re-smooth or reapply after correcting the wall surface.
✨ Final Thoughts
Wallpaper installation may look complicated, but with the right tools, planning, and a steady approach, you can achieve a professional-quality finish. Remember: preparation and attention to detail are what separate a flawless design from a rushed job.