Buzz
If you're looking for an affordable way to refresh your home's décor, try adding wallpaper borders to different rooms. It's a simple project that even beginners can complete in just one day. Follow the steps outlined below to learn how to hang a wallpaper border and give your space a vibrant new look.
Required Materials:
- Wallpaper border
- Pencil
- Level
- Razor blade or utility knife
- Smoothing brush
- Measuring tape
- Step ladder
Follow these steps:
- Begin by measuring the room where you plan to add a wallpaper border to determine the amount of wallpaper needed. A good rule is to calculate the square footage (or square meterage) of the room and add 15% for mistakes and waste [source: Lowes].
- Move the furniture to one side, cover the floor edges with protective cloths, and if you're working near electrical outlets, switch off the electricity to that room for safety.
- Using a pencil and measuring tape, mark the wall where you'd like the wallpaper border to sit. Be sure to use a level to ensure the lines are straight.
- Measure one wall's length and cut a strip of wallpaper. Cut a little extra wallpaper for trimming and overlap purposes.
- Start at the corner and position the wallpaper along the wall, following your marked lines. Depending on your wallpaper type, you may need to wet it to stick or peel off a protective film to expose the pre-pasted side. Use a smoothing brush to remove any creases.
- When you reach the next wall, overlap the wallpaper by about 3/16 of an inch (½ cm). Trim off any excess paper with a sharp knife or razor blade [source: Carter].
- Start the next wall by aligning the wallpaper border with the small overlap tab. Continue this process around the room until all walls are bordered.
