(Smiling brightly) Hey everyone, and welcome back to my channel! Today, we’re diving into the world of wallpapering, specifically focusing on how to achieve a flawless finish with paper wallpaper.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a complete beginner, applying wallpaper can sometimes feel like a daunting task. But fear not! In this video, I’ll be guiding you through the entire process step-by-step, from prepping your walls to achieving those crisp, clean edges that make all the difference.
We’ll cover everything you need to know, including:
* **Choosing the right tools and materials:** From brushes and rollers to the perfect type of adhesive, I’ll share my recommendations for ensuring a smooth and successful application.
* **Preparing your walls:** This crucial step involves ensuring your surface is clean, smooth, and free of imperfections. I’ll demonstrate the best techniques for prepping your walls like a pro.
* **Applying the wallpaper:** We’ll go through the process of hanging the wallpaper, paying close attention to pattern matching, achieving seamless seams, and avoiding bubbles or wrinkles.
* **Trimming and finishing:** Learn how to achieve those sharp, clean edges around windows, doorways, and other tricky areas. I’ll show you my favorite tools and techniques for a flawless finish.
So, grab your wallpaper, your tools, and a cup of coffee, and let’s get started! By the end of this video, you’ll be a wallpapering pro, ready to transform your space with confidence.
(Smiling) Let’s get started!
There are two main types of paper wallpaper:
- Simplex: This is the most common type of paper wallpaper. It is a single layer of paper with a printed design on one side.
- Duplex: This type of paper wallpaper is made of two layers of paper that are glued together. The design is printed on the top layer of paper. Duplex wallpaper is more durable than simplex wallpaper and is often used in high-traffic areas.
To glue paper wallpaper correctly, you will need the following tools:
- A measuring tape
- A level
- A plumb bob
- A pencil
- A utility knife
- A wallpaper brush
- A wallpaper smoother
- A seam roller
- A bucket of water
- Wallpaper paste
Before you start gluing wallpaper, you need to make sure that the wall is clean, dry, and smooth. You should also remove any old wallpaper or paint.
There are two main methods for gluing paper wallpaper:
- Overlapping: This method is used for simplex wallpaper. The wallpaper strips are overlapped by about 1/2 inch.
- Butt gluing: This method is used for duplex wallpaper. The wallpaper strips are butted up against each other.
When coupling wallpaper, you need to make sure that the edges of the strips are aligned perfectly. You can use a seam roller to help you do this. Once the edges are aligned, you can use a wallpaper smoother to press the wallpaper down onto the wall.
Here are some additional tips for gluing paper wallpaper correctly:
- Make sure that you use the correct type of wallpaper paste for the type of wallpaper you are using.
- Apply the paste evenly to the back of the wallpaper strip.
- Don’t over-wet the wallpaper.
- Work from the top of the wall down.
- Use a clean cloth to wipe up any excess paste.
- Allow the wallpaper to dry completely before you touch it.
By following these tips, you can glue paper wallpaper correctly and neatly.
Surface types:
- Smooth surfaces: These surfaces are ideal for overlapping wallpaper, as the adhesive will have a better chance of adhering to the wall.
- Rough surfaces: Rough surfaces can be more challenging to work with, as the adhesive may not adhere as well. In these cases, it is important to use a strong adhesive and to apply it evenly.
- Porous surfaces: Porous surfaces, such as brick or concrete, can absorb moisture from the adhesive, making it difficult for the wallpaper to stick. To avoid this, it is important to prime the surface before applying the wallpaper.
Wall thickness:
- Thin walls: Thin walls can be more difficult to work with, as the adhesive may not have enough surface area to adhere to. In these cases, it is important to use a strong adhesive and to apply it evenly.
- Thick walls: Thick walls can be easier to work with, as the adhesive will have more surface area to adhere to. However, it is still important to use a strong adhesive and to apply it evenly.
Dimensions:
- Small patterns: Small patterns are easier to overlap than large patterns. This is because there is less chance of the pattern mismatching when the wallpaper is overlapped.
- Large patterns: Large patterns can be more difficult to overlap than small patterns. This is because there is a greater chance of the pattern mismatching when the wallpaper is overlapped.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the wallpaper. This will help to prevent the wallpaper from tearing.
- Apply the adhesive evenly to the back of the wallpaper. This will help to ensure that the wallpaper sticks to the wall evenly.
- Start by overlapping the wallpaper at the top of the wall. This will help to ensure that the wallpaper is level.
- Use a wallpaper smoother to smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles.
- Allow the wallpaper to dry completely before moving on to the next strip.