Trimming wallpaper is a relatively simple process that should not take too long to complete. Firstly, the wall should be prepped by cleaning and removing old wallpaper, making sure to fill in any holes or cracks with spackling compound.
Once the wall is prepped, measure and cut the wallpaper to the desired size. Place the wallpaper against the wall and use a wallpaper brush (or any soft cloth) to smooth out any bubbles or creases. Once smooth, use a sharp blade to trim off any excess paper around the edges of the wall.
Make sure to make precise and clean cuts in order to achieve a professional finish. Finally, make sure to apply a sealant once the trimming is finished, as this will help protect the wallpaper.
Should you trim wallpaper wet or dry?
When it comes to trimming wallpaper, the generally accepted rule of thumb is to trim the paper while it’s still wet. This ensures a clean and even cut, allowing a smooth transition when you paste the wallpaper onto your chosen surface.
Start by taking a few inches off each side of the paper, then stand back and check the wallpaper against the wall to make sure it fits properly. If necessary, you can take off a little more wallpaper to make sure it fits the wall before pasting it.
When trimming the paper, always make sure you use a sharp blade and a ruler or straightedge to make sure your cuts are straight and even. Take care with the blade, as it’s easy to nick or tear the wallpaper if you’re not careful.
If you’re using a paper cutter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage to avoid damaging the paper.
While trimming wallpaper dry is possible, it’s not recommended, as you can easily damage the paper or create an uneven cut. Once the paper is dry, you may have to use a more heavy-duty blade to make sure you get the right cut.
In addition, you may end up having to put more paste on the edges of the paper when it is pasted, as it may not stick properly. For these reasons, it’s best to trim wallpaper wet with a sharp blade and ruler to ensure a clean, even cut.
How do you finish wallpaper corners?
When finishing wallpaper corners, there are a few different methods you can use. The most common approach is to use an angled, mitered cut. To do this, you can carefully measure the corner and trim both wallpaper strips to a 45-degree angle that meets in the corner.
You can further reinforce the corner by applying a line of wallpaper paste along the mitered edges then pressing them together.
Another way to finish corners is to use a corner roll. This method relies on using a pre-cut roll of wallpaper to cover the corner. You should align the roll with the wallpaper strips and then use a wallpaper paste to adhere the roll to the section of wallpaper at the corner.
Finally, many wallpaper adhesive products include a small corner-tool that can help hug corners and provide a more reliable long-term fit. Once the adhesive is applied, you can gently use the corner-tool to apply a neat border to each corner.
This method can be messier and more challenging for beginners, but it is a great option if you want an extra secure fit in the corner area.
Why do edges of wallpaper not stick?
The first and most likely explanation is that the adhesive on the back of the wallpaper was not allowed to properly dry before the wallpaper was applied to the wall. If adhesive wasn’t given time to properly cure and become tacky, it won’t adhere to the wall properly.
Additionally, lumpy or wet adhesive may not provide enough of a seal for the wallpaper.
Another potential issue is that the surface of the wall itself may be too slick for adhesion. If the wall has been recently painted or is still wet from previous wallpaper removal, the adhesive may not be able to grip the surface.
Walls should be wiped down before hanging wallpaper to ensure they’re clean and dry and not overly slippery.
Finally, the wallpaper may not have been pressed down properly or given time to adhere to the wall. During the application process, take your time and use a clean cloth to press down the edges of the paper and any air bubbles that may be present.
If you find yourself having difficulty, use an adhesive activator to moisten the adhesive on the back of the paper and give it an extra bit of stickiness.
Can you caulk the edges of wallpaper?
Yes, you can caulk the edges of wallpaper. Doing so helps create a clean and secure seal between the wallpaper and any joints or crevices along the wall. Applying caulk to the edges of wallpaper requires specialised tools and techniques, as you don’t want to damage the seams or the actual wallpaper.
It’s important to start with a clean and dry surface, ensuring that there is no dust or residue that can interfere with the adhesive. You’ll want to use a flexible caulk along the edges of the wallpaper, which helps prevent the wallpaper from being pulled away from the surface.
To ensure the caulk is on securely, use a caulking gun and run it along the edges of the wallpaper. Be sure to wipe away any excess caulk with a damp cloth. Once the caulk has dried, it should provide a long-lasting seal against moisture, mould and dirt.
Should you be able to see wallpaper seams?
The answer to this question depends on the installation of the wallpaper. If the wallpaper was installed correctly and the seams were lined up properly, then the wallpaper should be smooth and the seams should be virtually unnoticeable.
If the seams are visible, then the wallpaper was likely not installed correctly. The most preferable situation is that the seams are not visible, so it’s important to ensure that the wallpaper was installed in such a way that the seams are invisible.
If the wallpaper seams are visible, you might be able to hide them with a matching edge of paint or even a border. Alternatively, you could try reapplying the wallpaper properly, or hire someone to do it for you.
Why does wallpaper keep lifting?
Wallpaper can start lifting if it was not applied correctly or the wall’s surface was not properly prepared. Homeowners need to take time to properly clean the wall surface before hanging wallpaper, as any dust or debris can prevent the wallpaper adhesive from sticking correctly.
If wallpaper adhesive wasn’t applied thickly enough, the wallpaper can start to peel away from the wall. In addition, if wallpaper wasn’t allowed to dry completely before being put up, it can start to peel away once it’s exposed to moisture.
Lastly, if the wall surface shifted due to foundation settling, it can cause the wallpaper to become loose and start lifting.
How long do I soak wallpaper before hanging it?
When prepping wallpaper for hanging, you should soak it in cold water for at least 15 minutes. This helps to soften and expand the material, making it easier to work with. It also makes it easier to remove air bubbles which can lead to wrinkles and creases.
Depending on the wallcovering material, the ideal soaking time could be as long as 30 minutes. It is important to not soak wallpaper any longer than necessary, as they can become damaged if they are left in the water too long.
To ensure your wallpaper is adequately soaked, test it every 15 minutes by gently touching the middle of a segment – if it feels soft and pliable, then it is ready for use.
How do you cut wallpaper without tearing it?
To cut wallpaper without tearing it, it is important to use a sharp sharp knife or a wallpaper cutter/razor knife. When you make the cut, make sure it is a smooth, straight cut by using either a metal ruler or a steel square.
After you make the cut, always press it down firmly with the blade of the knife and make it at the same time to prevent the paper from curling up or away from the wall. Make sure the blade is sharp and do not drag the blade across the wallpaper.
Finally, use a damp sponge and gently smooth the edges of the cut to make them less visible.
How do you cut a straight line in wallpaper?
Cutting a straight line in wallpaper can be tricky. The best way to ensure a professional and straight result is to measure twice and cut once. First, use a measuring tape, level, and pencil to mark the cut line.
To ensure accuracy, mark the cut line on both sides of the wallpaper and use a straight edge to make sure the marks form a straight line.
Now, make sure you have the right tools. You’ll need a sharp utility knife or a wallpaper scorer. Depending on the material of your wallpaper, you may need to use a wallpaper steamer to soften the paper before cutting.
When you have the right tools, start cutting along the marked lines. Make sure to keep the blade on the straight edge and make sure the cut is even. You may need to make several passes with the knife to ensure a clean cut.
If you need to, use a fine pair of scissors to trim away any small bumps or imperfections.
Finally, you’ll need to fill in any gaps left by the cut. Use a fine grit sandpaper to smooth out any raised edges. Then, use wallpaper adhesive to fill in any gaps and make sure the edges of the wallpaper are firmly fixed in place.
By following these steps, you should be able to cut a straight line in wallpaper and get a professional result.
How do you make wallpaper seams disappear?
Making wallpaper seams disappear starts with proper installation of the wallpaper. Before applying wallpaper, make sure the wall is clean, free from dust and other particles and that it is perfectly even.
Start by matching the pattern on the first roll to the roll that follows. Apply the adhesive to the wall, starting at the top of the wall – never directly on the wallpaper. After the adhesive has been applied hang the first strip at the top of the wall.
When attaching the wallpaper strip, use a slight downward pressure to help the paper adhere easily. After the strip has been hung, position it with a soft cloth to adjust the seams and create an even surface.
The next rolls should overlap slightly on the previous roll to ensure seamless and tight edges. Follow this technique until the wall is completely covered. Once the walls are covered, use a sharp knife or scissors to trim the excess wallpaper, including along the edges by the ceiling.
To help conceal the seams, gently rub them with a damp cloth. This will help blend the seams with the wallpaper and make them less visible. Finally, to hide any seams that may still be visible, use a wallpaper seam roller to smooth and press the edges together.
Why can I see lines in my wallpaper?
It is likely that you can see lines in your wallpaper because it is not of high quality, it is unprimed, it has been installed improperly, or it was misaligned during installation. Poor quality wallpaper tends to have visible lines and the pattern may not show up as clearly as it should.
If the wallpaper has not been primed, it could cause it to become distorted over time, resulting in lines appearing.
Similarly, if the wallpaper was not installed properly, it could cause the paper to stretch in some areas and draw attention to the lines in the pattern. If you’re hanging wallpaper on uneven walls, you may also see some lines due to the wall’s natural surface.
Aligning walls correctly before installing the paper and using good quality wallpaper that has been primed correctly can help to ensure a smooth, even finish.
Does wallpaper expand when dry?
Yes, wallpaper expands when dry. Tighter paper can absorb more water and expand more than a looser paper. Generally, when wallpaper dries, it will expand between 3 and 10 percent in length and width, depending on the type of paper and the specific adhesive used.
When hanging wallpaper, it is important to allow extra paper so that it can expand. The extra wallpaper will peel off the wall, however, when the base wallpaper is correctly adhered to the wall, it should securely stay in place.
If you pre-cut strips with the exact measurements on the wall instead of allowing for expansion, the dry paper is likely to swell and pull away from the wall.
How do you wallpaper around awkward shapes?
When it comes to wallpapering around awkward shapes, there are a few key steps to take to ensure the best results. First, it’s important to determine which part of the wallpaper you’ll need to cut to fit the shape.
Then measure the area carefully, ensuring to add a few extra inches for trimming once the paper is applied. Next, draw the shape you need to cut on the back of the wallpaper roll and cut it out with an X-Acto knife.
When you apply the wallpaper, begin in a corner or edge of the awkward shape, using a straight edge to ensure the edges are kept straight. Feel free to use a cloth or even a small roller to smooth and press the wallpaper onto the surface, ensuring all the bubbles and creases are eliminated.
And, lastly, don’t forget to trim around the edges of the shape with the X-Acto knife after it’s fully applied to the wall to ensure a seamless fit.
How do I make my wallpaper straight?
Making sure your wallpaper is hung straight depends on what kind of wallpaper you are using and what kind of wall surface you are hanging it on. Wallpaper is usually hung either with paste or with a pre-pastedhesive.
If you are hanging wallpaper with paste, you need to make sure your wall is even and dust-free before you begin to hang your wallpaper. This prevents any air bubbles or ripples that can be created when the paper is put onto the wall.
To hang the wallpaper, use a plumb line or string to ensure that you’re hanging the paper in a level line. Apply wallpaper paste to the back of the wallpaper with a roller, then place the sheet gently on the wall, starting at the plumb line and working downwards.
Be sure to press it onto the wall so that it adheres perfectly. Smooth out the wallpaper with a clean, damp sponge, using gentle, even strokes so that it adheres properly.
If you are using pre-pasted wallpaper, you can follow the same steps as above for making sure that your wallpaper is straight, with the added advantage that the adhesive will already be on the paper.
This makes the process faster and easier, but you must still be sure to use a damp sponge to smooth out the wallpaper on the wall.
If you’re using traditional wallpaper, you can hang it with paste or steam-set it with a special machine. Whichever method you use, make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take your time.
If you take the time to make sure that your wallpaper is hung straight and even, it will make a huge difference to the overall look of the room.
Do you overlap wallpaper in corners?
Yes, when you are overlapping wallpaper in corners, you should try to be as precise as possible in order to get a clean, even finish. Start by aligning the bottom edge of the wallpaper with the corner, then overlap the top edge by 1-2 inches.
You should then do the same on the adjacent wall. To ensure the overlap is even, you can use a small measuring tool to properly align the edges. It is also important to slightly crease the wallpaper at the corner so it curves smoothly.
If done correctly, this overlapping process should help hide any seams and give your walls a polished look.
Why are my wallpaper seams showing?
There could be a few different reasons why your wallpaper seams are showing. One of the most common causes is improper wallpaper installation. Incorrect amounts of adhesive, not using the right type of adhesive, using an adhesive that’s too old, and not allowing enough time for the adhesive to dry can all cause seams to show.
Improperly prepared walls can also cause seams to show. If the walls weren’t properly primed before wallpaper installation, the adhesive might not be sealing the edges of the paper well enough to hide seams.
It’s also possible that the wall isn’t smooth and leveled, leading to noticeable seams.
Using a low-quality wallpaper can also be a factor. If the wallpaper is too thin or flimsy, it won’t adhere properly to the wall and the seams will show. When choosing wallpaper, be sure to look for thick, heavy-duty materials that adhere well.
Finally, it could be as simple as needing to touch up the seams. Make sure you have enough wallpaper left for the repairs, then use a seam roller to press down the seams and cover gaps if needed.