Is Paste-the-Wall Easier to Apply Than Traditional Wallpaper?

Paste-the-wall wallpaper is the easiest option for those new to wallpaper installation. It’s not just suitable for beginners—anyone can appreciate the ease and speed this type of wallpaper offers. Before you jump into your project, there are a few essential things you should consider.

What Is Paste-the-Wall Wallpaper?

Paste-the-wall wallpaper is a modern type of non-woven wallpaper designed for convenience. Unlike traditional wallpaper, you don’t need to soak or prepare the paper rather you need to apply adhesive directly to the wall, and then place the wallpaper over it. This method makes wallpaper installation simpler and quicker, perfect for anyone wanting fast results without much hassle.

Differences Between Paste-the-Wall and Traditional Wallpaper

The difference between paste-the-wall and traditional wallpaper is in the material and installation process. 

• Paste-the-wall wallpaper has a specially designed backing that doesn’t expand when wet, allowing for smoother application and fewer risks of tearing. 
• Traditional wallpaper needs to be soaked in paste, which causes it to expand, increasing the risk of damage during installation.

Time is another big differentiator. Paste-the-wall wallpaper doesn’t require soaking, making the process faster and more efficient. Whether you choose paste-the-wall or traditional wallpaper, both offer different advantages depending on your project’s needs.

What About Wallpaper Paste?

For paste-the-wall wallpaper, regular wallpaper paste works just fine. However, always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you use the correct product for the best results. While you don’t need any special adhesive, following instructions will help you avoid complications during installation.

Vital Tips for Installing Paste-the-Wall Wallpaper

1. Gather All Necessary Tools Before Starting

Having the right tools on hand is crucial to ensure smooth progress. Paste-the-wall wallpaper needs the following tools:

• A roller to spread the paste systematically.
• A paint liner or tray to place the roller.
• Wallpaper paste or adhesive.
• A pasting brush for corner application.
• A utility knife with fresh, sharp blades.
• A rubber float or plastic scraper for smoothing out the wallpaper.
• A moist sponge to clean up surplus adhesive.
• A level to ensure panel alignment.

With these tools, you can complete your project more efficiently.

2. Choose the Right Starting Point

When wallpapering a room, where you begin matters, some suggest beginning in the centre of a wall, while others recommend starting from a corner. Well, starting from a corner can help minimise waste and reduce the number of wallpaper panels required.

When using paste-the-wall wallpaper, be sure to overlap the corners slightly—about one inch—and cut away the excess. This ensures that you cover the seam entirely. Before applying the first panel, use a level to mark a line where the outer edge of your first sheet will go.

3. Apply Adhesive One Section at a Time

Wallpaper adhesive can dry quickly, so it’s important to apply it only to the section of the wall you’re working on. Use a roller to spread the adhesive evenly, and ensure it gets into corners with a brush. After hanging the first panel, gently smooth it with your hands and use a rubber float to press it securely against the wall. Be careful not to shift the wallpaper too much, as this can cause misalignment with the next panel.

4. Ensure Your First Panel is Perfectly Level

The key to a successful wallpaper installation is getting the first panel straight. Use your level to check that the wallpaper is aligned properly from top to bottom. As you apply additional panels, make sure they butt up against the previous one without overlapping. Intermittently, inspect your work with a level to ensure you’re applying correctly.

For right-handed individuals, working from right to left along the wall is usually the easiest approach. Begin at the top corner and smooth the wallpaper downwards in 12-inch sections to prevent air bubbles.

5. Use a Sharp Blade for a Clean Finish

To achieve a clean, professional finish, always trim excess wallpaper with a sharp utility knife. Hold a metal scraper against the wall as a guide while cutting, ensuring a precise edge. Make sure to change blades frequently to avoid tearing the wallpaper as you work.

6. Clean Up Excess Adhesive

Paste-the-wall wallpapers are washable, so once you’ve applied a section, use a damp sponge to wipe off any adhesive that may have leaked out from under the edges. Be sure to clean your sponge regularly between panels to avoid spreading adhesive across the wallpaper.

Finishing Up Your Wallpaper Project

One of the best features of paste-the-wall wallpaper is zero downtime. You can keep pasting and applying panels without waiting for anything to dry in between. Once you get the knack of the process, it becomes quicker and more enjoyable. 

If you’ve been thinking about wallpapering a room, paste-the-wall wallpaper is an excellent place to start. Discover Kaleon Wallpaper’s stunning collection, featuring easy-to-install paste-the-wall and peel-and-stick wallpapers that can transform any space. Get started on your dream project today—contact us at 0451 576 423 for expert advice and personalised assistance!

Read Also: Mastering the Art of Residential Wallpaper Selection