With the right tools and good instructions, wallpapering is simple and fun. Well planned is almost done!
Wallpapering tools
- Pasting table (or any flat surface of about 300cm x 70cm)
- Pasting brush
- Bucket
- Hanging brush
- Utility knife
- Tape measure
- Straight edge (or a strong 60 cm ruler)
- Level or plumb line (or a string with a weight attached to one end)
- Step ladder (or a sturdy stool)
- Clean cloth
How to hang traditional wallpapers?
- Mix wallpaper paste according to the manufacturer’s instructions. We recommend using starch or cellulose based ready-to-mix wallpaper powder with no added glue or plastic.
- Walls should be prepared properly, creating a smooth, dry and slightly porous surface. Old plastic or embossed wallpapers must be removed. Best results are achieved by using primer paint or special lining paper.
- Using a bubble level or plumb bob, draw a vertical line from top to bottom on the wall. This will ensure that the first drop of wallpaper is straight.
- Open the wallpaper roll and lay it on the worktop pattern-side facing down. Measure the height of the wall, and cut the needed length plus 10—15 cm extra with a sharp knife or a snap-off-blade. Mark the top of the strip with a pencil.
- Stir the wallpaper paste once more, and apply paste onto the wallpaper with a brush. Start from the middle and brush out towards the edges, spread the paste evenly throughout the wallpaper. Pay special attention to edges, apply thinly and evenly. Make sure that the paste does not end up on the patterned side of the wallpaper. Let wallpaper soak for 1—2 minutes. Handle wet wallpaper with care, as it is easily damaged. Do not use wallpaper pasting machine.
- Align the wallpaper strip with the straight vertical line and gently attach the top half to the wall using a soft wallpaper brush. Never use plastic or metallic smoothers. Brush from the middle towards the edges, and make sure that the edges attach properly. Excess paper should not be pressed against the ceiling or floor as they are difficult to remove afterwards. If the paste accidentally ends up on the pattern side of the wallpaper, dab it off quickly with a clean, dry cloth. Do not rub or use water.
- Measure and cut the next strip. Make sure that the pattern aligns properly before cutting. Mark the top of the strip and apply the paste. Align the patterns neatly with a butt-joint and attach as above.
- Allow the wallpaper to dry slowly at room temperature. Cut the excess parts with a sharp knife when the walls are completely dry. Wallpaper can be cleaned gently with a soft dry cloth. Do no use water or detergents. For further advice, please contact your retailer.
Hanging instructions:
Hanging instructions (Pihlgren & Ritola)