Installing peel and stick wallpaper can instantly revamp any room, but when it comes to peel and stick wallpaper corners, things get a bit tricky. They are notorious for being challenging to get right, but with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can master peel and stick wallpaper. Let's explore how to install peel and stick wallpaper in a corner, ensuring a seamless look and a sophisticated appearance for your space. Proper peel and stick wallpaper installation in the corner is crucial, as it can make or break the overall appearance of your entire wall. Neat corner not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your room but also ensure the durability and longevity of the peel and stick wallpaper. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps and few tips on how to perfectly install peel and stick wallpaper.
Start by gathering your tools, including a sharp utility knife, wallpaper brush, and a smooth wall to work on. Cut the peel and stick wallpaper with a few extra inches to accommodate the corner. Use a peel and stick wallpaper brush to smooth out any excess glue and ensure a seamless look. Following these few tips will help you avoid issues common with traditional wallpaper and achieve a polished finish for your peel and stick wallpaper.
Prepare the Walls
Clean the Surface
Before you start applying peel and stick wallpaper, it's essential to clean the walls thoroughly. Begin by removing dust with a soft cloth or duster, and then tackle any grease or grime with a gentle cleanser suitable for your wall type. Be sure to eliminate any debris or residue that could affect the wallpaper's adhesion. A clean wall ensures the wallpaper adheres properly, remains in place over time, and prevents unsightly bubbles or peeling edges, especially around tricky areas like edges.
Check the Wall Condition
Carefully inspect the walls for any imperfections that may affect the final look. Ensure they are smooth, dry, and free from any cracks, holes, or irregularities. Take the time to fill in any gaps and sand down rough areas to create a flawless base for the wallpaper. This preparation, including smoothing areas around crown moulding and the ceiling, will help ensure a professional finish and enhance the longevity and appearance of the wallpaper once applied.
Mark Vertical Guidelines
Use a level to carefully draw a straight line near the corner of the wall. This line will serve as a crucial guide for applying the first strip of wallpaper. By ensuring that this initial strip goes up straight, you set a solid foundation for the entire wallpaper installation process, helping to maintain alignment and achieve a professional finish throughout the room. Be sure to leave a few extra inches at the top for trimming and cut excess paper along the edge and corner, ensuring wallpaper panels align perfectly. Following this wallpapering step-by-step guide will make applying peel and stick wallpaper easier, even in tricky areas.
Measure and Cut the Wallpaper
Measuring for the First Panel
When measuring for the first, measure the width from the guideline to the corner, accounting for any overlap you might encounter. Accurate measurements are crucial to ensure the wallpaper fits perfectly into the corner without gaps or misalignment. Use these tips for safety and precision while handling the measuring and cutting process.
Cutting the Wallpaper
Before you cut, add an extra inch or two to the panel width to ensure proper coverage in the corner. This additional material will help cover and trim the edges, achieving a seamless cover with a clean finish. Apply a sharp utility knife to replace any faulty sections, ensuring that cuts are precise for smooth surfaces. Apply adhesive for smoothing and sticking the wallpaper to ensure it stays securely in place.
Handling Pattern Alignment
When handling patterned wallpaper, it's essential to match the patterns across panels, especially around edges, to achieve a seamless outcome. Carefully align the designs so they match perfectly to avoid noticeable mismatches. This approach is a popular choice for achieving a polished finish. Repeat the measurement and installation procedure for each thing, ensuring the texture and design remain consistent throughout the entire wall for a flawless hanging experience.
Installing the First Panel in the Corner
Start with the Flattest Wall
Start with the wall that’s less likely to be seen or has fewer obstacles, such as behind a door or a piece of furniture. This side often allows for a smoother beginning, giving you the opportunity to repeat and get comfortable with the procedure of applying wallpaper. By choosing this wall, you'll gain confidence and skill on how to apply the wallpaper before moving on to more prominent areas, showing the way it was designed to enhance your space.
Align the First with the Guideline
Install the first strip of wallpaper along the guideline, smoothing it out carefully as you progress. Using a wallpaper brush not only helps achieve an even application but also ensures that there are no air bubbles trapped underneath, giving a more professional finish. Measure to ensure everything matches perfectly.
Adhere the Wallpaper into the Corner
Use a smoothing tool to press the wallpaper firmly into the corner, ensuring it adheres securely to the wall. Take your time to eliminate any air bubbles or wrinkles, gliding the tool smoothly over the wallpaper. This meticulous step is crucial for achieving a professional and polished look that showcases the unique design, allowing you to enjoy the transformation of your space.
Cut Away Excess
Carefully trim any excess wallpaper where it meets the corner to prevent any overlaps or bulges. Use a utility knife with a sharp blade for clean and precise cuts, ensuring the edges are neat and perfectly aligned. Slowly peel away any excess wallpaper, using a straight edge to guide your cuts. Taking your time with this step will enhance the overall finish and contribute to a professional-looking installation, even when dealing with difficult situations. Stick wallpaper carefully, and hang peel sections where necessary for the best outcome.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dealing with Uneven Corners
When hanging peel and stick wallpaper, if they aren't straight, adjust by carefully lifting and repositioning it as needed. You may need to reapply sections multiple times for a better fit, ensuring a smooth finish. Take your time for precise adjustments for the best results. Using a utility knife can help measure and cut the pieces accurately.
Fixing Air Bubbles and Wrinkles
If you notice air bubbles or wrinkles forming while installing the wallpaper, gently lift the wallpaper and smooth it out again to maintain a perfect wall. Take your time during this step, as patience can make a big difference. Using a wallpaper brush can further help you achieve a smooth, bubble-free finish. Make sure the area is fully covered and looks seamless.
Correcting Misalignment
If the pattern doesn’t match perfectly in the corner, don't panic while applying your peel and stick wallpaper. Take a deep breath and carefully lift the wallpaper away from the wall. Gently realign it, adjusting as needed to ensure the patterns flow seamlessly from one to the next. Starting with precise measurements and cuts can pave the way for a flawless outcome.
Final Touches
Double-Check Alignment
When installing peel and stick wallpaper, take a moment to ensure that all edges are aligned and smooth. Carefully inspect each section with a straight edge to confirm consistency and uniformity. This thorough final check will help you catch any small imperfections or irregularities, such as excess wallpaper or excess adhesive, that may have been missed during earlier stages of your work.
Press Down Seams Firmly
To properly install peel and stick wallpaper, reinforce the seams with a smoothing tool to prevent peeling over time. Carefully take your time with this step, as it is crucial for maintaining the wallpaper's long-term durability and appearance. This step-by-step guide will help ensure a successful installation.
Cleaning Up
After you've hung peel and stick wallpaper, wipe down the surface to remove any glue residue, ensuring that all surfaces are clean and free from any sticky remains. Carefully clean up your workspace, organizing any tools and materials used during the process, such as paper, trim, and the careful cut tools. Remove any remaining excess wallpaper and repeat the process if necessary, starting from the wall corner and working your way towards the ceiling.
In conclusion, installing peel and stick wallpaper in corners doesn't have to be daunting. With careful paper preparation and patience, this task can transform your space into a stunning showcase of style. Start by ensuring your walls are clean and dry to ensure the adhesive sticks properly. Measure the corner meticulously, cutting the wallpaper slightly larger than needed to allow for adjustments. Use a smoothing tool to apply the wallpaper and slowly peel off the backing, pressing it onto the smooth surface to avoid excess adhesive. Trim any excess at the edges and corners, ensuring a neat fit around the ceiling and trim. By following these detailed steps and taking your time, you can achieve professional-looking results that enhance the beauty and longevity of your wallpaper. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. For more tips and tricks on how to hang peel and stick wallpaper in tricky areas like around windows or doors, check out our related articles. Each project is a learning experience, and with each one, your skills will grow. Happy decorating!
