How to Install Peel & Stick Wallpaper

Welcome to your room’s easiest transformation! With the right process and a little care, peel-and-stick wallpaper installs cleanly, smoothly, and beautifully. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve flawless results.

What You’ll Need

Before diving in, make sure you have all these tools on hand:

• Wallpaper rolls

• Tape measure

• Pencil

• Level or plumb line

• Straightedge or ruler

• Sharp utility / craft knife (with extra blades)

• Smoothing tool (e.g. plastic applicator or felt squeegee)

• Scissors

• Ladder or step stool

• Clean, lint-free cloth or sponge

• Mild, non-abrasive cleaner

Step 1: Prepare the Wall

A clean, smooth surface is key for peel-and-stick wallpaper to adhere properly.

1. Clean thoroughly. Remove dust, grease, or residue. Use a mild detergent solution, rinse, and allow the wall to dry completely.

2. Repair imperfections. Fill nail holes, cracks, and uneven patches; sand down any rough spots.

3. Prime (if needed). On highly porous or textured walls, apply a primer or flat latex paint first to reduce absorption and make removal easier later.

4. Condition the wallpaper. Let wallpaper rolls rest flat (or slightly rolled) in the room for 12–24 hours before installation. This helps the paper acclimate to the room temperature and reduces curling or warping.

Step 2: Measure & Cut Your Strips

Accurate measurements and pre-cutting will streamline your install.

1. Measure the wall height. Measure from ceiling to baseboard (or floor molding). Add about 2–3 cm (⅞–1¼ in) extra at both top and bottom for trimming.

2. Cut your first strip. Use a straightedge to cut. If your wallpaper has a repeating pattern, ensure each strip starts at a matching point so the design lines up between strips.

3. Pre-cut remaining strips. Continue cutting strips with the same care, aligning pattern repeats. It’s better to cut slightly longer and trim down than to cut too short.

Step 3: Mark Your Starting Plumb Line

A straight vertical guideline ensures your first strip hangs perfectly level — critical for all subsequent strips.

1. Decide your start point. Typically 1–2 cm (⅜–¾ in) from a corner or wall edge (you will trim later).

2. Use a level or plumb line. Draw a light vertical line from floor to ceiling. This will serve as your alignment reference for the top of Strip #1.

Step 4: Install the First Strip

The first strip sets the tone for the rest of your install.

1. Peel back 25–60 cm (10–24 in). Gently peel the backing off the top portion of the first strip.

2. Position at top. Align your paper so the top overhangs the ceiling slightly (you will trim off the excess later).

3. Smooth downward. Using your smoothing tool, press from top to bottom as you gradually peel off the backing behind it.

4. Eliminate bubbles. Work from the center outward to push out air pockets. If a bubble persists, gently lift and reposition.

5. Trim excess. Use a straightedge and fresh blade to trim off extra at both the ceiling and baseboard edges.

Step 5: Apply Additional Strips

Now that your base is in place, continue strip-by-strip.

1. Match the pattern. Start the next strip by aligning the design with the first one.

2. Butt or slight overlap (if applicable). Depending on your wallpaper style, either butt the edges or slightly overlap (¼–⅛ in) to ensure a seamless join.

3. Peel, press, and smooth. Repeat the process — peel backing gradually, press onto wall, smooth from center outward.

4. Trim excess. Cut off extra material at top and bottom as before.

5. Check alignment frequently. Step back to verify continuity of pattern.

Step 6: Final Touches & Adjustments

1. Trim corners and edges. Make final precision cuts around outlets, switches, corners, and baseboards.

2. Clean edges. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any loose paper dust.

3. Inspect for bubbles. If small bubbles remain, gently lift and reposition or prick with a pin to release air and flatten.

4. Install border pieces (if any). Match the pattern carefully and trim edges cleanly.

Removal & Repositioning

One advantage of peel-and-stick wallpaper is its relatively easy removal or repositioning.

• Repositioning: Starting from a top corner, slowly peel back the wallpaper. Avoid pulling outward (perpendicular to the wall) — pull gently downward as you go.

• Full removal: Peel off slowly and evenly; go section by section.

• Adhesive residue: If any tacky residue remains, use a mild soapy water solution and a damp sponge to wipe it off. Do not use harsh chemicals or scrubbing abrasives.

Care & Cleaning

To keep your wallpaper looking fresh:

• Wipe gently with a damp, lint-free cloth or sponge.

• Use mild detergent (pH-neutral).

• Avoid abrasive scrubbers, heavy soaking, or strong chemical cleaners.

• Always blot; don’t rub harshly.

• Test any new cleaner in a hidden spot first.

Tips for a Perfect Finish