Planning and Preparation
To plan and prepare for installing wallpaper around corners and obstacles, you need to measure the wall accurately, calculate the required amount of wallpaper, and gather the necessary tools and materials. These three sub-sections will provide solutions to make your wallpaper installation easy and flawless.
Measuring the wall
To accurately cover a wall, precise measurements are essential. This will guarantee you obtain the correct amount of wallpaper or paint, avoiding any unnecessary costs. Here’s how to measure:
- Start by measuring from floor to ceiling.
- Measure each wall’s width.
- Add up all wall widths for the total linear footage.
- Multiply total linear footage by the ceiling height for total square footage.
Remember to take into account any obstacles in the wall, like doors/windows, and deduct their area. An extra person’s help may be useful for larger surfaces.
Houzz Singapore, a home design platform, suggests taking professional measurements before carrying out decoration.
To avoid getting a patchwork-quilt look, remember to calculate the amount needed before wallpapering.
Calculating the amount of wallpaper needed
Accurately estimating the amount of wallpaper needed is essential. Calculate the surface area to be covered with precision. To do this, here are 6 easy steps to help:
- Calculate the perimeters of each wall by adding up their lengths.
- Multiply the perimeter by the height of the room.
- Subtract any areas not to be covered, like windows or doors.
- Divide the result by the square footage of a standard roll of wallpaper (usually 56 square feet).
- Add between 10-15% extra for wastage, pattern matching and trimming.
- Round up and order extra rolls just in case.
Measuring with accuracy is key. Complicated patterns can make this even harder. Factor these elements into your calculations to avoid costly errors. An incomplete plan can lead to bad outcomes. Keep hoarding supplies for the DIY disaster!
Gathering necessary tools and materials
Before starting a project, one must get the necessary tools and materials. This can be done using a systematic approach. Here is a six-step guide:
- List all the instruments and gadgets needed.
- Create a checklist and tick off items when acquired.
- Figure out how much of each material is needed and buy it.
- Check that the items meet specs and functionality needs.
- Store hardware in designated areas to protect them.
- Maintain tools in good condition during use.
It’s best to prioritize quality over cost-effectiveness. Quality items last longer and need less maintenance than cheaper ones. Also, make sure the right tools are being used or else performance and damage may occur.
Organizing in advance saves time and energy. No panic last-minute trips are needed if everything is planned out. It’s like prepping for a mugshot – it might help, but it’s not a guarantee.
Preparing the Wall
To get your wall ready for wallpaper installation around corners and obstacles, it is important to prepare it properly. This involves three sub-sections as solutions: cleaning the wall, patching and sanding any imperfections, and applying primer. By following these steps, you can ensure that your wallpaper installation is smooth and long-lasting, without any bumps or imperfections caused by a poorly prepared surface.
Cleaning the wall
Wall Surface Preparation
Ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish by preparing the wall. Crucial step: Clean the wall thoroughly.
6-Step Guide:
- Sweep or vacuum any loose debris or dust.
- Dilute suitable cleaning solution in water per instructions.
- Wet wall surface with clean water before solution.
- Apply solution with sponge or bristle brush.
- Scrub gently in circles to avoid damage.
- Rinse with clean water & let dry.
Unique Details:
Check for streaks & residue after cleaning. Pre-treat stubborn stains or grease marks with baking powder or vinegar before detergent-based cleaners.
Pro Tip:
Protect skin & eyes with gloves & goggles when cleaning with harsh chemicals. It may take some time & effort, but patching & sanding will result in a smooth, flawless finish.
Patching and sanding any imperfections
To ensure an even wall surface, more than just a superficial check is needed. Patch and smooth out any visible imperfections with the right tools. Once inspected, fill in the cracks with putty or plaster and let it settle. Then sand off any excess material, using fine-grit sandpaper in circular motions to make the texture blend in.
Remember, different coatings need different methods. Paint can hide flaws while wallpaper tends to emphasize them. The texture of the wall has an impact too. For light textures use 80-150 grits, for heavier textures use 150-220 grits, gradually moving up in size.
Back in the day, clay and gypsum plaster solutions were used. People applied with their hands, not trowels like today. And don’t forget one important thing – primer. It’s the foundation for any successful wall relationship.
Applying primer
Primer is a preparatory layer needed for a smooth and professional finish on walls. Here’s a 6-step guide how to apply it effectively:
- Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris.
- Use painter’s tape on edges and trim areas.
- Stir the primer thoroughly before applying.
- Pour the priming mixture into a roller tray.
- Roll the primer onto the wall in even strokes.
- Let the primer dry before painting or wallpapering.
Not all surfaces need priming. Unpainted drywall or plaster needs first-time priming. On previously painted walls, spot-priming may be enough for water stains.
I once skipped priming my bedroom for paint in order to save time and money. After 2 years, I had to redo everything due to paint issues from changing climates. I ended up spending more than usual!
Think of wallpaper as a full-body workout and home-decorating in one!
Hanging the Wallpaper
To hang the wallpaper around corners and obstacles with perfection, you need to understand the art of hanging the wallpaper. This section, “Hanging the Wallpaper,” will guide you through the essential steps required to hang wallpaper. Starting in the corner, aligning the pattern, smoothing out the wallpaper, and trimming excess wallpaper – these subsections will be crucial in helping you create a flawless wallpaper finish.
Starting in the corner
Beginning at the Edge of the Wall
When it comes to wallpaper, beginning in the corner is essential for a perfect finish. Start at the corner where the wall meets a perpendicular wall. Here’s a 6-step guide:
- Measure and cut wallpaper to fit your wall’s height – leave extra inches to trim.
- Align the edge with the corner.
- Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles.
- Use a level tool to make the strip sit straight.
- Cut off excess wallpaper along edges.
- Press down firmly at the seams.
Consider certain details too: no stretching or overlapping.
One wallpaper hanger had great success. She measured and pressed her first strip, then aligned each seam exactly. This resulted in a flawless, professional-looking room. No visible errors to spoil its beauty! So don’t stress about aligning the pattern precisely – it’ll provide something for guests to focus on, rather than talking to your Uncle at dinner parties.
Aligning the pattern
Hanging wallpaper with patterned designs requires precision and accuracy. To achieve alignment, start in one corner of the room and work your way across the wall. Make sure each strip of wallpaper is level with each other. Match up patterns between strips carefully.
Use a spirit level to make sure the first length is plumb. Mark vertical lines where you intend to hang your strips. Don’t stretch or pull the wallpaper when hanging it, and use a sharp knife or scissors to trim any excess paper.
This step of precise alignment shows attention to detail and is essential for outstanding results. Wallpaper has been used centuries ago, and today homeowners have a selection of colors, patterns and textures to customize their space. Trying to smooth wallpaper bumps is like ironing a wadded-up shirt – frustrating and impossible.
Smoothing out the wallpaper
Achieving a perfect wallpaper look is essential for home decor. To do this, use these 6 steps:
- Ensure the surface is clean.
- Cut wallpaper to size and apply adhesive.
- Smooth out bubbles and creases with a tool.
- Trim any extra paper with a sharp blade.
- Repeat for all sheets of wallpaper.
- Allow wallpaper to dry before moving on.
High-quality materials and patience are key for a smooth finish. My friend learnt this lesson the hard way when they found out halfway through that they had hung wallpaper upside down. Patience is a must in DIY projects! Wish trimming body fat was as easy as trimming excess wallpaper!
Trimming excess wallpaper
After hanging the wallpaper, it’s important to cut away any extra. This’ll give the wallpaper a neat look. Here’s a 4-step guide for trimming excess wallpaper:
- Use scissors or a utility knife to cut the top and bottom edges.
- Make an incision with a putty knife or scraper where there’s overlap.
- Peel back the overlapping area, cutting away extra wallpaper.
- Smooth out the new edge with a damp cloth or sponge.
Leave around an inch of wallpaper at the top and bottom for adjustments. Use a ruler or straight edge to get precise cuts. Wipe away any adhesive residue left behind after trimming. It’ll help the wallpaper last longer and look better. Trimming excess wallpaper makes a big difference in getting a professional finish! Wallpapering around corners is tough – expensive wallpaper and your sanity.
Working Around Corners and Obstacles
To work around corners and obstacles while installing wallpaper, use techniques that help create a smooth, seamless finish. Creating relief cuts, applying overlap and double-cut techniques, and fitting wallpaper around outlets and switches are a few methods that will assist you during the process. These sub-sections will help you learn different ways to navigate challenging areas when installing wallpaper.
Creating relief cuts
When dealing with corners and obstacles, it’s essential to make relief cuts. These cuts reduce the tension on the material, allowing it to bend and shape without breaking. Here’s how:
- Identify areas of tension.
- Measure and mark for cuts.
- Cut at a shallow angle, from the edge near the tension point.
- Repeat along the length to the end.
Be careful not to cut too deep or have jagged edges. Relief cuts aren’t always needed; folding or bending the material may be enough.
This technique has long been used in Japanese art forms like origami and kirigami. It takes precision to create intricate designs.
Relief cuts are key to tackling obstructions with ease and accuracy. So, get ready to impress with your DIY projects!
Applying overlap and double-cut technique for seamless corners
Achieve perfect corners and tackle obstacles by employing overlap and double-cut. Follow this 3-step guide:
- Measure the wall and cut the strip.
- Position the first strip so it overlaps the adjacent wall (about 1 inch).
- Fit the second strip to the corner. Cut both layers at the same time with steady pressure.
Note: Avoid too much pressure on the knife/scissors, so as to avoid incorrect cuts or ripping.
Pro Tip: Use sharp tools for accurate overlapping and excellent corners! Fitting wallpaper around switches and outlets is like doing keyhole surgery on a lion.
Fitting the wallpaper around outlets and switches
For wallpapering those pesky outlets and switches, a special technique is needed. To make it happen, follow these steps:
- Turn off the electric power.
- Take off the faceplate.
- Cut a piece of wallpaper to fit into the space where you removed the faceplate.
- Put it in place, no air bubbles or creases! Reattach the faceplate and you’re done.
Remember, each outlet or switch may need different measurements. Put a border around switches for a nice touch. Different wallpaper adhesives? Read the instructions before beginning. And, sometimes, the only thing that matters is just getting it done.
Finishing Touches
To add perfect finishing touches with the best possible solution for installing your wallpaper around corners and obstacles, we present you with our recommended sub-sections that focus on cleaning and polishing the wallpaper, as well as admiring the finished product.
Cleaning and polishing the wallpaper
To keep wallpaper looking its best, follow these 3 steps:
- Remove dust with a brush or vacuum.
- Mix dish soap and warm water, then wipe wallpaper in circles. Rinse cloth/sponge frequently.
- Dab away excess moisture and use a clean plastic spatula to press creases/seams.
Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers or too much rubbing. Cleaning not only keeps walls aesthetic but also increases lifespan.
Certain wallpapers may require special cleaning techniques or professional help. Generic household cleaners can cause discoloration or remove color – beware!
Finally, something to admire without guilt – the finished product of my home renovation.
Admiring the finished product.
Hard work pays off when a project is finished. One can admire the skill and enthusiasm put into its making. The outcome is polished and reflects the original plan. Excellence and mastery are shown in the result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to prep the walls before installing wallpaper around corners and obstacles?
A: Before installing wallpaper around corners and obstacles, it’s important to make sure that the walls are clean, smooth, and free of any bumps or cracks. Use sandpaper and putty to fill in any imperfections, then wipe down the walls with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
Q: How do you measure the amount of wallpaper you’ll need for corners and obstacles?
A: To measure the amount of wallpaper you’ll need for corners and obstacles, start by measuring the overall height and width of the wall. Then, measure the height and width of the corner or obstacle. Add a few inches to each measurement to account for waste and pattern matching. Use a wallpaper calculator or consult with a professional to determine the exact amount needed.
Q: What tools do I need to install wallpaper around corners and obstacles?
A: You’ll need a few basic tools to install wallpaper around corners and obstacles. These include a wallpaper smoother, a wallpaper brush, scissors, a measuring tape, a level, a utility knife, and a wallpaper scorer. In addition, you may also need a wallpaper steamer if you’re working with stubborn wallpaper or paint.
Q: What’s the best way to apply wallpaper paste around corners and obstacles?
A: To apply wallpaper paste around corners and obstacles, use a brush or roller to apply a liberal amount of paste to the wall in the area where the wallpaper will be installed. Be sure to apply plenty of paste around corners and edges to ensure a tight seal. Allow the paste to set for a few minutes before applying the wallpaper.
Q: How do I smooth out air bubbles or wrinkles in the wallpaper around corners and obstacles?
A: To smooth out air bubbles or wrinkles in the wallpaper around corners and obstacles, use a wallpaper smoother or brush to gently push the bubbles towards the edge of the wallpaper. Be careful not to use too much force, as this can cause the wallpaper to tear. Use your fingers to gently smooth out any wrinkles or creases.
Q: How do I trim the excess wallpaper around corners and obstacles?
A: To trim the excess wallpaper around corners and obstacles, use a sharp utility knife or scissors to carefully cut along the edge of the molding or obstacle. Be sure to make clean, straight cuts to avoid any rough or jagged edges.