Tips for buying wallpaper

When buying wallpaper, there are many things to consider. It is difficult to know exactly how a wallpapered room will look before installing it, but these steps can help:

• Always buy paper that carries the same lot, run or batch number. In addition to a pattern number, wallpaper usually is labeled with the lot, batch or run number, which indicates all the colors in that batch will be consistent. The same color in a different run or lot may be noticeably different. 
• Buy more than you need. When you install wallpaper, there is a margin of error. It is always better to have more than you need than less, especially if you have to make repairs down the line. 
• Consider patterns. If you are using patterned wallpaper, consider how that pattern will look in the space. Consider the scale of the pattern: larger patterns are best used in bedrooms or dining rooms- spaces where the pattern can be the focal point of the room. Also, consider how certain patterns affect how big a room feels. Horizontal patterns make a room look larger, while vertical patterns make the ceilings seem higher. 
• Order samples. It is important to test a wallpaper before buying enough to cover the space, especially if you are considering a bold pattern. Hang a sample of the wallpaper in the space before buying more to make sure you are happy with the color and pattern in person.

How to install wallpaper

Before you select a wallpaper, you should research materials. Most wallpapers in the U.S. are paper-backed vinyl, which is easier to install than other types of wallpaper. They also typically come pre-pasted, meaning you do not have to apply any adhesive. Once you have chosen your wallpaper and are ready to apply it, follow these steps:  

1. Prep the walls. Remove plate covers and light fixtures. Fill holes with a nonshrinking joint compound and sand the walls to buff out imperfections. Cover the wall with primer. 
2. Roll on the paste. Use a paint roller to apply the paste to the wallpaper.
3. Book the paper before hanging. Fold the paper into thirds so that the paste can activate and the paper can soften.
4. Begin applying the paper. Start from an inside corner. Overlap the paper to ensure coverage. 
5. Gently smooth out the paper. Use a smoother to smooth down the paper once it is on the wall. Do this as you go. 
6. Wipe down the paper as you go. Use a sponge to clean off any paste residue. Squeeze the sponge while it is submerged in water to avoid creating suds on the paper.
7. Set paper edges with a roller. Make sure to roll over every seam as you go to avoid the paper curling. 

Required tools for installing wallpaper

Here is a list of everything you will need to apply your wallpaper:

• Chalk line
• Level
• Paint roller
• Straightedge
• Tape measure
• Taping knife
• Utility knife
• Scissors
• Sponge
• Wallpaper roll
• Wallpaper smoother
• “Wall size” primer/sizing product
• Wallpaper paste
• Wallpaper