Wallpaper Corner Tips

Hey everyone, and welcome back to my channel! Today, we’re tackling a topic that can be a real pain point for DIYers: how to properly glue wallpaper in corners.

Let’s face it, corners can be tricky. You’ve got to get the paper to lay flat, avoid unsightly seams, and make sure everything is nice and smooth. But don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through the process step-by-step.

In this video, I’ll show you exactly how to prepare your corners, apply the adhesive, and smooth out the paper for a flawless finish. I’ll also share some handy tips and tricks that I’ve picked up over the years to make the job easier.

So, whether you’re a seasoned wallpapering pro or a complete beginner, this video has something for you. Grab your tools, get ready to learn, and let’s make those corners look sharp!

When it comes to wallpapering, the age-old question arises: which corner should you start from? The answer, my friends, lies in the layout of your room.

For rooms with windows and doors:

• Identify the wall with the most prominent window or door. This will be your starting point.
• Begin by hanging the first strip of wallpaper vertically next to the window or door frame, ensuring it’s perfectly plumb.
• Continue hanging strips horizontally across the wall, matching the pattern meticulously.

For rooms without prominent features:

• Choose a corner that is least noticeable, perhaps behind a piece of furniture.
• Start by hanging the first strip vertically in this corner, making sure it’s level.
• Proceed by hanging strips horizontally across the wall, paying close attention to pattern matching.

Now that you’ve chosen your starting point, let’s delve into the art of gluing wallpaper.

Preparation is key:

• Ensure the wall surface is clean, dry, and smooth. Fill any cracks or holes to create a flawless base.
• Apply a coat of primer suitable for wallpaper to enhance adhesion.
• Measure the wall height and cut the wallpaper strips accordingly, adding an extra TWO INCHES for trimming.

Applying the paste:

• Use a wallpaper paste specifically designed for the type of wallpaper you’re using.
• Apply the paste generously and evenly to the back of the wallpaper strip using a brush or roller.
• Allow the paste to soak in for the time recommended by the manufacturer, usually around FIVE TO TEN MINUTES.

Hanging the wallpaper:

• Carefully lift the soaked wallpaper strip and align it with the plumb line or level you’ve marked on the wall.
• Starting from the top, gently press the strip onto the wall, smoothing out any air bubbles with a smoothing tool or brush.
• Use a sharp utility knife to trim the excess wallpaper at the top and bottom, ensuring a clean and precise finish.

Inner corners, where two walls meet, require special attention to achieve a seamless look.

Mastering the miter cut:

• Measure the distance from the corner to the edge of the last wallpaper strip you hung.
• Cut a new strip of wallpaper to this length, ensuring the pattern aligns with the previous strip.
• Using a straightedge and a sharp utility knife, make a 45-degree angle cut on the back of the new strip, starting from the top edge and extending down to the bottom.
• Apply paste to the back of the strip and hang it in the corner, aligning the cut edge with the corner.
• Smooth out the wallpaper, ensuring it overlaps the previous strip slightly.
• Use a seam roller to firmly press the seam and remove any excess paste.

External corners, where two walls protrude outwards, can be tackled using a similar technique.

The overlap method:

• Measure the distance from the corner to the edge of the last wallpaper strip you hung.
• Cut a new strip of wallpaper to this length, ensuring the pattern aligns with the previous strip.
• Apply paste to the back of the strip and hang it on the wall, overlapping the previous strip by about ONE INCH.
• Use a seam roller to firmly press the seam and remove any excess paste.
• On the adjacent wall, hang another strip of wallpaper, overlapping the first strip by about ONE INCH.
• Use a sharp utility knife to carefully cut through both layers of wallpaper at the corner, creating a clean and precise edge.

Uneven walls can pose a challenge when wallpapering, but with a few tricks, you can achieve a smooth and professional finish.

Smoothing out imperfections:

• Apply a thin layer of joint compound to fill any minor cracks or uneven areas.
• Once dry, sand the surface smooth using fine-grit sandpaper.
• Apply a coat of primer to the patched areas to ensure uniform adhesion.
• When hanging the wallpaper, use a smoothing tool to gently press the paper into any remaining imperfections.

By following these guidelines and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of wallpapering corners, achieving a flawless and professional finish in any room.

When it comes to wallpapering, the exterior corner is where you want to begin. This ensures a clean and seamless transition between the two walls.

Measure the width of the corner and add about two to three inches to each side. Cut two strips of wallpaper according to this measurement.

Apply adhesive to the back of the first strip and carefully align it with the corner, ensuring it’s perfectly plumb. Press firmly to secure it in place.

Apply adhesive to the back of the second strip. Overlap the first strip by about one to two inches, ensuring the pattern aligns perfectly. Smooth out any air bubbles using a wallpaper smoother.

Use a sharp utility knife to carefully trim away the excess wallpaper at the corner, ensuring a clean and precise finish.

Before applying wallpaper, it’s crucial to identify any unevenness in the walls. This can be done by using a level or straightedge.

If you find uneven areas, address them by applying a thin layer of patching compound. Allow it to dry completely before sanding it smooth.

Once the walls are even, you can apply the wallpaper using the same technique as described for exterior corners.

When working with patterned wallpaper, it’s essential to match the pattern across the seams. Carefully align the pattern on each strip before applying adhesive.

To ensure the pattern remains straight, use a plumb line as a guide while applying each strip. This helps maintain alignment and prevent the pattern from becoming skewed.

After applying each strip, use a sharp utility knife to carefully trim away the excess wallpaper, ensuring the pattern remains continuous across the seams.

Invest in high-quality wallpaper that is specifically designed for corners. This will ensure durability and a seamless finish.

Apply the adhesive evenly to the back of the wallpaper to ensure proper adhesion. Avoid using too much or too little adhesive.

Having the right tools, such as a wallpaper smoother, utility knife, and level, will make the process easier and more efficient.

Don’t rush the process. Take your time to ensure each step is done accurately. This will result in a professional-looking finish.