Step 1 – Get your equipment ready
Being prepared will make a huge difference, as you have limited time once you paste your wallpaper, and you will need everything easily on hand!.
Here’s a list of everything you need:
Wallpaper (make sure all rolls are the same batch number)
Wallpaper paste
Wallpaper table (for paste-the-paper styles)
Smoothing brush or plastic wallpaper smoother
Sharp knife or scissors
Plumb line or spirit level
Tape measure
Pencil
Sponge or cloth
Bucket of clean water
Step ladder
Step 2: Prep Your Walls
Possibly the most crucial step in how to hang wallpaper! Make sure you:
Tip: Wallpaper sticks best to smooth, dry surfaces. Don’t skip the prep!Â
Step 3: Mark a Straight Starting Line
Use a plumb line or spirit level to draw a straight vertical line about 50cm in from the corner (or wherever you’re starting). This helps keep your first drop perfectly straight, even if your walls aren’t.
Tip: Don’t trust the corner to be straight; always measure!
Step 4: Cut Your First Drop
Measure the wall height and add 5–10cm extra for trimming at the top and bottom.
Cut your first length of wallpaper and check the pattern to see if it repeats.
Tip: Label the back of each drop lightly in pencil (1, 2, 3…) so you hang them in the right order.
Step 5: Apply the Paste (if it’s needed!)
There are two main types of wallpaper: ‘paste-the-paper’ wallpaper and ‘paste-the-wall’ wallpaper.
All of our wallpapers are the ‘paste-the-wall’ type, which makes it much easier because you don’t even need a decorators’ table as you apply the paste directly to the wall, and the wallpaper is applied dry.
Tip: Start with the simplest wall (preferably one without a door or window!!) and use coloured wallpaper paste instead of clear so you can see where you’ve applied it onto the wall!
Step 6: Hang the First Drop
Line up the first drop with your pencil line. Start from the top and smooth down gently:
Use a brush or smoother to press out bubbles, working from the centre outwards.
Leave some excess at the top and bottom for trimming.
Tip: Don’t stretch the paper—it can shrink back as it dries. Don’t panic if you make a mistake—most wallpaper gives you a bit of time to reposition.
Step 7: Trim the Top and Bottom
Use a sharp knife or scissors to trim the excess along the ceiling and skirting. A metal ruler or wallpaper trimming guide helps keep the line neat.
Tip: Change blades often for clean cuts—dull blades tear wallpaper and are very frustrating!
Step 8: Match the Next Drop
Apply the next drop, ensuring it matches the pattern if necessary. Butt the edges tightly together—don’t overlap.
Repeat the smoothing and trimming process.
Tip: Wipe off any excess paste immediately with a damp sponge to prevent marks. Use a damp sponge (not too wet) to wipe paste from the paper.
Step 9: Keep Going Wall by Wall
Continue around the room, hanging one drop at a time. Always check for pattern alignment and bubbles as you go.
For corners, measure from the last strip to the corner and add 2cm.
Cut and hang that piece, then use the offcut to start the next wall.
Tip: Tackle tricky spots like around sockets or windows with patience and small cuts. You can always cut more off, but you can’t stick wallpaper back on!
Step 10: Stand Back and Admire Your Amazing Work!
Once finished, step back and check for any bubbles or edges that need to be pressed down. Let the wallpaper dry naturally—avoid high heat or open windows.
There you go; How to hang wallpaper in 10 easy steps! You can do it!
Got questions about our wallpaper range? Please get in touch. Wondering how many rolls you need? Click here for the answer.
With over 20 years of experience in the global fashion industry, artists at Curate Space infuse their unique expertise into home decor. Each design begins as a sketch, a brushstroke, a moment of imagination in our London studio where ideas take form and craftsmanship begins. Whether you are looking for sustainable, handcrafted wallpaper, fabric or both for your home, project or commercial premises, Curate Space will help you elevate every space. Contact us to find out more.