Want to give your home a fresh new look without the hassle and commitment of traditional wallpaper? Peel and stick wallpaper is your answer! It’s renter-friendly, budget-friendly, and surprisingly easy to apply – even with furry friends underfoot.
Getting Started: Your Peel and Stick Wallpaper Adventure
Before you dive in, let's make sure you're prepared. These steps will ensure a smooth and satisfying wallpapering experience.
Gather Your Supplies
You'll need:
- Peel and stick wallpaper (measure your wall carefully to calculate how much you need! Consider ordering slightly more to account for mistakes or pattern matching.)
- A measuring tape
- A pencil
- A level
- A smoothing tool (a plastic smoother or even a credit card works!)
- A utility knife or sharp scissors
- A clean, damp cloth
- Optional: A friend to help!
Prep Your Walls: The Key to Success
This is the most crucial step! Improper preparation can lead to bubbles, peeling, and an overall frustrating experience.
- Cleanliness is Key: Wipe down your walls with a damp cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. Let them dry completely. This helps the adhesive stick properly.
- Smooth Operator: Fill any holes or imperfections with spackle and sand smooth. Textured walls can cause issues with adhesion. While some wallpapers can handle light texture, extremely bumpy surfaces are not ideal.
- Prime Time (Maybe): If your walls are painted with a glossy or semi-gloss paint, consider priming them with a matte primer. Glossy surfaces don't always provide a good grip for the adhesive. Freshly painted walls should cure for at least 30 days before applying wallpaper.
Application: Turning Walls into Works of Art
Now for the fun part! Remember to take your time and be patient.
Step-by-Step Installation
- Measure and Cut: Measure the height of your wall and add a few inches extra at the top and bottom for trimming. Cut your first strip of wallpaper.
- Peel and Position: Peel back a small section (about 12 inches) of the backing paper from the top of the wallpaper. Align the top edge of the wallpaper with the top corner of your wall, making sure it’s straight using your level. Leave a few inches of extra material at the top.
- Stick and Smooth: Gently press the exposed portion of the wallpaper onto the wall, using your smoothing tool to work out any air bubbles. Smooth from the center outwards.
- Continue Peeling and Sticking: Slowly peel away more of the backing paper, working your way down the wall. Continue smoothing as you go.
- Trim the Excess: Once the wallpaper is completely applied, use your utility knife or scissors to trim the excess material at the top and bottom.
- Repeat: Repeat steps 1-5 for the remaining strips, carefully matching the pattern as you go. Overlap seams slightly for the best results, especially in humid environments.
Pro Tips for Pet Owners
- Consider Durability: Choose a wallpaper with a smooth, wipeable surface. This makes it easier to clean paw prints, nose smudges, or other pet-related messes.
- Low VOC Options: Look for wallpapers labeled as low-VOC (volatile organic compounds). These are safer for your pets' respiratory health.
- Protect the Edges: Pets, especially cats, might be tempted to scratch at the edges of the wallpaper. Consider applying a clear sealant along the edges to prevent peeling and discourage scratching. A small bead of clear caulk can also work.
- Keep Them Away During Installation: If possible, keep your pets out of the room while you’re installing the wallpaper. This prevents accidental damage to the wallpaper and keeps your pets safe from tools.
Troubleshooting: Fixing Common Issues
- Bubbles: Use your smoothing tool to gently push the bubbles towards the edge of the wallpaper. If that doesn't work, use a pin to prick the bubble and then smooth it out.
- Wrinkles: Carefully peel back the wallpaper and reapply, smoothing out the wrinkles as you go.
- Peeling: Make sure your walls are properly cleaned and primed. If the wallpaper is still peeling, you can use a wallpaper seam adhesive to secure the edges.
With a little preparation and patience, you can transform your space with peel and stick wallpaper in no time! Enjoy your beautiful, newly decorated home!