Instructions / Assembly

plastered walls. However, many combination primer/sizers are available and can be used
simultaneously for a wallpapering project.
How do I cut the wallpaper for each strip?
Your first strip should measure the height of your wall plus four inches. This will leave two inches at
the top and bottom for trimming. Mark the end of the first strip with a pencil and straightedge.
Then use a sharp utility knife in one continuous cut across the paper. You’ll need to consider your
pattern repeat before you cut the rest of your strips to ensure your design matches vertically and
horizontally. For instance, in a straight design match you will want to cut each strip the same
length beginning at the same point in the pattern. For an offset design match, you should roll out
the paper side by side with the first strip to match up the patterns and cut paper accordingly.
Do I overlap the seams when hanging wallpaper?
Wallpaper seams should not overlap but instead should be “butted” together. The two edges of
the wallpaper should be touching but not overlapping. A seam roller is a tool that can be used
to seal the wallpaper seams and help smooth any edges that have lifted. Do not roll the seams
too aggressively or you will push out all the adhesive.
How do I avoid wallpaper seams showing or separating?
Unsightly wallpaper seams can be avoided by following the proper procedures for “booking”
and smoothing wallpaper. “Booking” helps wallpaper to evenly absorb the moisture that
activates the adhesive so you don’t have to worry about wallpaper shrinking up while it sets. A
wallpaper smoothing tool should be used after you hang each strip. This will help the seams line
up and smooth out the paper. A seam roller can also help seal and set wallpaper seams. It is
important to know if you choose a grasscloth or natural fiber wallpaper, that seams will show
because the natural fibers do not create perfect seams. This is actually a style choice and one
reason why coverings like grasscloth are popular with decorators who are looking to create a
natural and textured look in their space.
How do I trim the excess wallpaper?
Once the wallpaper is hung, you will trim the excess paper from the top and bottom for an
exact fit. Use a putty knife to guide a sharp blade in a long, continuous cut across the excess
paper around the ceilings and baseboards.
How do I wallpaper around window and door frames?
When you reach a door/window frame, allow the paper to hang over the door or window while
you smooth the paper until it meets the door/window frame. Once the area is smoothed, cut off
the paper that hangs over the door/window, leaving only a few inches for trimming. You will
want to make a diagonal cut in the paper at the corner of the door/window frame, allowing the
paper to lay flat at the edge of the frame. Smooth the paper down around the corner. Use your
putty knife and a sharp blade to trim the excess paper around the door/window frame.
How do I avoid bubbles and creases in my wallpaper?
Bubbles and creases are caused by air bubbles underneath the paper and can be the result of
uneven smoothing. This can be avoided by smoothing down the center of the strip first and then
smooth outward. Bubbles that form during hanging can be fixed by lifting the paper up around
the bubble and smoothing it back down. If the bubble is not discovered until the wallpaper is