How To Apply Peel And Stick Wallpaper

Peel and stick wallpaper provides an affordable and effective way to refresh your room's appearance. You can add a fun border in a kid's room or make a big change in your living room. Successfully applying peel and stick wallpaper requires following the correct steps and using the right tools.

In this blog, we're going to show you how to apply peel and stick wallpaper the right way. We'll walk you through each step, and the tools required. Follow along to make your space look great. Let’s get started!

What Tools You'll Need To Apply Peel And Stick Wallpaper?

The right equipment on hand makes the peel and stick wallpaper application process smoother and ensures a professional-looking finish. Here are five must-have tools:

1. Measuring Tape

Measure your walls accurately using a measuring tape to ensure precise cuts of your peel and stick wallpaper.

2. Utility Knife or Slice Tool

You need a  utility knife or slice tool for trimming excess wallpaper. It helps in making clean cuts around edges, outlets, and corners, ensuring your wallpaper fits perfectly without any rough edges.

3. Smoothing Tool or Applicator 

Use a smoothing tool to eliminate air bubbles for a flawless wallpaper application. This step is key to making sure your wallpaper sticks smoothly and looks professional.

4. Level

A  level ensures your peel and stick wallpaper border lines up correctly. It's essential for achieving a straight and professional-looking application, especially around doors and windows.

5. Step Stool or Ladder

A  step stool or ladder is essential for safely applying wallpaper to high and hard-to-reach areas. It ensures you can safely apply peel and stick wallpaper to the entire wall, even if it stretches to the ceiling.

6 Easy Steps To Apply Peel And Stick Wallpaper

Here's how to transform your walls with peel and stick wallpaper effortlessly in 6 easy steps:

Step 1: Power Off and Prep Wall

First off, turning off the power. This way, you're all set to work around any outlets without a hitch. Next, grab a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner to give your walls a good wipe. This step helps make sure your peel and stick wallpaper has a smooth, clean surface to cling to. Give it a day to air dry before moving on.

Step 2: Install the First Panel of Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Measure out how wide your wallpaper is and mark that spot on the wall. With a level in hand, draw a straight line from the ceiling down to where you want your wallpaper to end. This is your trusty guide to ensure that the first strip of wallpaper goes up nice and straight.

Step 3: Apply Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Peel back the top edge of your wallpaper about 12 inches and align it with your previously drawn line. As you move down, gently press the wallpaper against the wall, peeling off the backing little by little.

Step 4: Match Patterns and Repeat

Now for adding the next strip. The trick is to make sure your wallpaper's pattern lines up just right, creating that flawless look. Overlap this new piece slightly over the first, smoothing out the seam as you go. If there’s extra at the bottom, just trim it off.

Step 5: Work Around Windows and Outlets

When you hit a window, door, or outlet, keep going just like you have been, allowing the wallpaper to overlap. Then, with a steady hand, trim away the extra peel and stick wallpaper border. Ensure power is still off. This is especially important when working around outlets. A little trimming here means everything will fit perfectly, and don't sweat the small imperfections; outlet covers and switch plates will cover them up.

Step 6: Bubble Trouble? No Worries!

If you spot an air bubble, it's an easy fix. Poke a tiny hole in the center with a pin, press the air out gently, and smooth it over. This little touch-up ensures your wallpaper looks absolutely smooth and flawless.

FAQs

What should I do if my peel-and-stick wallpaper begins to peel off?

Carefully remove the section and clean the wall with a solution of isopropyl alcohol and water for better adhesion, let it dry, and reapply. If it doesn’t stick, consider replacing the piece.

How long can I expect my peel-and-stick wallpaper to last?

Properly applied peel-and-stick wallpaper can last over five years, but its lifespan may decrease with frequent reapplications or improper application.

What's the best way to clean peel-and-stick wallpaper?

Clean it with a soft cloth dampened with mild dish soap and water, but check the manufacturer's recommendations first.

How can I remove peel-and-stick wallpaper without damaging the wall?

Warm the wallpaper with a hair dryer on low, then gently peel it off with a scraper or knife, working slowly to avoid wall damage.

Begin your DIY projects with the right tools from JB Tools

JB Tools is your go-to partner, when it's time to bring your DIY projects to life. We've got everything you need from screw drivers, levels, measuring tapes and gardening tools to tackle any job, big or small, with confidence and creativity. Our extensive range of peel and stick wallpaper tools ensures you have everything needed to begin your project. Dive into your next project with JB Tools and turn your vision into reality.