If you’re looking to refresh your living space, wallpaper is a fantastic way to add personality, texture, and depth. Whether your style leans toward classic elegance or bold modern art, the right wallpaper can transform your walls into a masterpiece. But before you dive into the transformation, let’s tackle the process of hanging wallpaper like a pro.
For UK residents, navigating wallpaper choices and installation can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re aiming for a professional finish. You might find yourself wondering:
- How do I choose wallpaper for my living room?
- Where can I buy wallpaper in the UK?
- What steps do I follow for a flawless application?
As a brand dedicated to artistry and craftsmanship—like Orangme, known for our hand-painted oil paintings—we believe in elevating your space with beauty and attention to detail. Let’s break down the wallpapering process into manageable steps.
Step 1: Prep the Walls
Before applying wallpaper, ensure your walls are clean, smooth, and dry. Remove any old wallpaper, fill cracks with filler, and sand down rough patches. A wall sizing primer is highly recommended in the UK’s often humid climate—it helps the adhesive bond better and makes future removal easier.
Tip: If you’re hanging wallpaper in a high-moisture area like a kitchen or bathroom, choose a vinyl or moisture-resistant option to prevent peeling.
Step 2: Measure the Walls
Accurate measurements are key to avoiding waste and mismatched patterns. Measure the height and width of each wall, adding a few extra inches to the length for trimming. For patterned wallpaper, factor in the pattern repeat to ensure seamless alignment.
Remember: UK wallpaper rolls typically cover about 5.2 square metres, but always check the label for exact coverage.
Step 3: Cut the Paper
Lay your wallpaper on a clean, flat surface and cut strips according to your measurements. If using a patterned design, match the pattern across strips before cutting. Label each strip at the top to keep track of their order.
Step 4: Apply the Paste
For paste-the-wall wallpapers, apply adhesive directly to the wall. For traditional wallpapers, use a pasting table to evenly coat the back of each strip. Follow the adhesive instructions carefully—especially regarding soaking time, which varies by wallpaper type.
Pro tip: In cooler UK homes, ensure the room temperature is between 18-21°C for optimal adhesive performance.
Step 5: Hang the Paper
Start from a corner or a prominent vertical line (use a plumb bob for accuracy). Smooth the paper onto the wall with a wallpaper brush or squeegee, working from the centre outward to remove air bubbles. Trim excess at the ceiling and skirting board with a sharp knife. Repeat, carefully aligning each strip, and wipe away any excess paste immediately.
How to Choose Wallpaper for Your Living Room
Your living room wallpaper should reflect your style while complementing your existing décor. Consider:
- Colour and pattern: Large patterns can make a bold statement in spacious rooms, while subtle textures work well in smaller spaces.
- Lighting: UK homes often have varying natural light. Test samples at different times of day to see how colours shift.
- Material: Vinyl is durable and washable, while paper-backed options offer a traditional look.
For a touch of artistry, draw inspiration from hand-painted designs—like those offered by Orangme—to bring a unique, gallery-like feel to your space.
Where Can I Buy Wallpaper in the UK?
From high-street retailers like John Lewis and B&Q to specialist online stores such as Wallpaper Direct and Graham & Brown, the UK offers endless options. For custom or artistic designs, consider independent suppliers or explore curated collections that reflect your personal taste.
Transforming your home with wallpaper is a rewarding DIY project that, when done correctly, can last for years. By following these steps and choosing designs that speak to you—much like selecting a hand-painted oil painting from Orangme—you’ll create a living space that’s both beautiful and uniquely yours.
Happy decorating!
