How to Select and Install DIY Wallpapers
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February 2nd 2024
Looking for a way to infuse your home with personality or sophistication with decorative wallpaper?
Here, we’ll learn how to install stylish wallpapers and discover where to select and create your own unique wallpaper.
Here are step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process of installing your own wallpaper
Preparation
Prepare the Walls
Ensure that the walls are clean, smooth, and free of any dust or debris. Patch any holes or imperfections and sand the surface if necessary.
Measure the Walls
Measure the height and width of the walls to determine the amount of wallpaper needed. Add a few extra inches to each measurement for trimming.
Purchase Wallpaper
Purchase wallpaper with the correct measurements, and make sure the pattern matches if applicable.
Application
Mix Wallpaper Adhesive
If using traditional wallpaper that requires adhesive, follow the manufacturer's instructions to mix the wallpaper paste or adhesive.
Apply Adhesive
Apply the adhesive to the back of the wallpaper using a brush or roller. Ensure even coverage, especially on the edges.
Book the Wallpaper
Fold the pasted sides of the wallpaper onto itself (booking) to allow the adhesive to activate. Follow the recommended booking time specified by the manufacturer.
Align the First Sheet
Start in a corner or at a focal point. Use a level and pencil to draw a straight, vertical line as a guide. Align the edge of the wallpaper with this line.
Smooth Out Air Bubbles
Use a wallpaper smoother or squeegee to smooth out air bubbles and wrinkles as you press the wallpaper onto the wall. Work from the center towards the edges.
Trim Excess Wallpaper
Use a utility knife or wallpaper cutting tool to trim excess wallpaper at the top and bottom. Use a straight edge or the wall as a guide.
Repeat the Process
Continue applying and smoothing wallpaper sheets, ensuring proper alignment of patterns. Match patterns carefully if your wallpaper has a repeating design.
Overlap or Butt Joints
Depending on the type of wallpaper, you may have overlapping seams or butt joints. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific wallpaper type.
Final Steps
Clean Excess Adhesive
Wipe away any excess adhesive using a damp sponge. Be careful not to smear the adhesive onto the front of the wallpaper.
Trim Edges and Corners
Use a sharp utility knife to trim excess wallpaper along corners and edges. Ensure clean and precise cuts.
Let It Dry
Allow the wallpaper to dry completely before moving furniture back into place or making any further adjustments.
Here are a few wallpaper retailers that provide self-installable wallpaper options
Amazon
Amazon has a wide selection of DIY wallpapers worth checking out in almost every style.
Vivian Ferne
Vivian Ferne is a woman-owned and operated design shop that specializes in bold, large-scale abstract wallpaper murals. Taking a maximalist abstract approach, each product originates from a handmade modern, abstract art-style painting.
Spoonflower
Spoonflower allows users to explore and customize a diverse range of wallpaper designs, providing options to upload personal designs.
Tempaper
Tempaper offers self-adhesive, removable wallpaper in stylish designs.
WallsNeedLove
WallsNeedLove curates a collection of trendy and modern wallpaper designs.
Hygge & West
Hygge & West presents a chic selection of designer wallpapers featuring contemporary patterns and artistic designs.
Wayfair
Wayfair provides a broad selection of trendy wallpapers suitable for various spaces.
Anthropologie
Anthropologie features an eclectic range of wallpapers with a focus on artistic and bohemian designs.
Walls Republic
Walls Republic offers a variety of contemporary wallpaper designs, including trendy patterns like geometric prints and textured wallpapers.
Ferm Living
Ferm Living specializes in modern and trendy wallpaper designs with a Scandinavian touch.
Chasing Paper
Chasing Paper specializes in peel-and-stick removable wallpaper with trendy designs, catering to those seeking easy and temporary decor solutions.
Serena & Lily
Serena & Lily features a curated selection of sophisticated wallpapers with a coastal and timeless aesthetic.
Houzz
Houzz offers a diverse marketplace for home decor, including a wide range of trendy wallpaper designs.
Wallsauce
Wallsauce provides customizable wallpaper murals with a focus on high-quality prints and trendy designs.
Rifle Paper Co.
Rifle Paper Co. is renowned for whimsical and stylish wallpaper designs featuring botanical motifs and vibrant patterns.
Eazywallz
Eazywallz offers customizable wallpaper murals with trendy and modern designs.
West Elm
West Elm features a selection of modern and on-trend wallpapers aligned with contemporary design preferences.
Kate Zaremba Company
Kate Zaremba Company offers hand-drawn and unique wallpaper designs, known for their artistic approach.
CB2
CB2 provides a selection of modern and trendy wallpapers complementing contemporary decor.
Flavor Paper
Flavor Paper is recognized for bold and unconventional wallpaper designs.
Explore websites that offer customizable for designing your own wallpaper
Limitless Walls
Limitless Walls provides a platform for designing custom wallpapers for your home. Users can explore a variety of options to personalize their space, including uploading their images or choosing from the site's collection.
Murals Your Way
Murals Your Way allows users to create personalized wall murals by choosing the image, size, and material. Whether it's a custom photo or selecting from their extensive collection, users can tailor the mural to their preferences.
Love vs Design
Love vs Design offers a platform for designing custom wallpaper with a focus on stylish and personalized patterns. Users can choose from various design options, add their text, and customize colors to create unique wallpapers.
Spoonflower
Spoonflower allows users to create and customize their wallpaper designs, offering a platform for uploading personal designs or choosing from a variety of patterns.
Tempaper
Tempaper provides self-adhesive, removable wallpaper that users can customize by choosing patterns, colors, and even uploading their designs.
Wallsauce
Wallsauce offers customizable wallpaper murals, allowing users to select from their collection or upload personal images for a personalized touch.
Eazywallz
Eazywallz provides customizable wallpaper murals with a selection of designs and the option for users to upload their images for a unique look.
Discover which wallpaper style complements each room of your home most effectively
Traditional Wallpaper
Timeless patterns like damask, floral, or stripes characterize traditional wallpaper.
Best Fit: Living rooms, dining rooms, or formal spaces.
Geometric Wallpaper
Clean lines, shapes, and patterns create a modern and contemporary look.
Best Fit: Home offices, bedrooms, or accent walls in various rooms.
Floral Wallpaper
Features flowers and botanical motifs, providing a soft and romantic feel.
Best Fit: Bedrooms, bathrooms, or accent walls in living areas.
Striped Wallpaper
Vertical or horizontal stripes add a sense of height or width to a room.
Best Fit: Hallways, small spaces, or rooms where you want to create visual interest.
Textured Wallpaper
Adds depth and dimension with textured surfaces like grasscloth or embossed patterns.
Best Fit: Bedrooms, living rooms, or areas where you want to add tactile interest.
Vintage Wallpaper
Retro patterns or designs inspired by different eras for a nostalgic touch.
Best Fit: Home offices, accent walls, or areas where a vintage aesthetic is desired.
Tropical Wallpaper
Features palm leaves, exotic plants, or beach-inspired motifs for a tropical vibe.
Best Fit: Bedrooms, bathrooms, or spaces where you want to evoke a vacation feel.
Kids' Wallpaper
Colorful and playful designs featuring cartoons, animals, or interactive elements.
Best Fit: Children's bedrooms, playrooms, or nursery areas.
Brick Wallpaper
Mimics the appearance of exposed brick, adding an industrial or rustic touch.
Best Fit: Accent walls in living rooms, bedrooms, or areas with an industrial theme.
Abstract Wallpaper
Artistic and non-representational designs for a modern and eclectic look.
Best Fit: Art studios, creative spaces, or areas where you want a unique focal point.
Scenic Wallpaper
Features landscapes, cityscapes, or nature scenes for a picturesque effect.
Best Fit: Dining rooms, living rooms, or areas where you want to create a visually stunning atmosphere.
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