Search
When I put up the wallpaper in my living room I did it with a baby on my back (lol, I was determined):
And when it came time to tackle the basement, baby was big enough to leave on the floor beside me, so no baby wearing necessary : )
It started like this:
And ended like this:
I love wallpaper for the vitality and instant energy a pattern like this will add to a space- love this Kelly Hoppen ikat by Graham and Brown. This print is just so happy! I feel so wonderful when I go down to my basement surrounded by this energy.
I truthfully don't recommend installing wallpaper yourself UNLESS you are willing to "practice" first. Meaning, you're OK that the first few times you do it it might not be 100% perfect.
If you're going to attempt to install wallpaper, here are my tips for awesome installation.
1. WORK WITH 2 PEOPLE
If you're a beginner I highly recommend working with 2 people. One person can hold the paper while the other pastes the wall. It is a bit of a physical gymnastics if you are not used to it as the paper can fall on your head, be cumbersome to work with. So if you have a friend who can help it will make the leaning curve faster.
2. BE PATIENT
You really cannot rush wallpaper installation. To line up patterns there really is no secret trick- use a level to make sure the pattern is straight but it really is just an exercise of patience. Go slowly, breath and be patient. The results are so worth it.
3. USE THE SHARPEST KNIFE AND CORRECT TOOLS
I don't use any special kits or fancy tools- but what I have learned from experience is to change your blade consistently and make sure it is sharp at all times- you'll get a cleaner edge and avoid frustration. What I also find really helpful is a large table nearby to lay out your wallpaper lengths and keep them organized and in order. Essential tools include:
- large clean table to lay out strips
- knife that you can consistently change the blade on
- level
- plastic smoothing tool to get out air bubbles
- wallpaper paste, paint tray, liner, roller and cage to apply the paste
- small sponge to pick up extra wallpaper paste
4. HIRE IF YOU DON'T HAVE TIME
So if you think this is ambitious and you don't have the time to PATIENTLY apply paper- I recommend you hire. Wallpaper is very delicate. If you rip it- there goes $$$$. And while I think it is a skill that can be learned with experience, it is not an easy skill. It really is worth every penny you will pay an experienced installer for professional looking installation.
Have you got any tricks (other than hiring!) for awesome wallpaper installation? Love to know in the comments below.
