The traditional way to hang wallpaper is the paste-the-paper method – applying adhesive to the back of each length before it goes on the wall. This technique is still used for many printed wallpapers, vinyl wallcoverings and paper-backed designs, especially when they are not labelled as paste-the-wall.
Below you"ll find a simple, step-by-step guide to pasting wallcoverings correctly, plus a few tips to avoid bubbles, stretching and poor adhesion. For advice on which adhesive to use, see our separate guide to choosing wallpaper paste.
If your wallcovering is a modern non-woven "easy to hang" product, it may be designed for the paste-the-wall method instead. In that case, follow the instructions on the label and refer to our paste-the-wall wallpaper guide.
Before You Start: Tools, Adhesive & Preparation
Whatever method you use, good preparation makes a huge difference to the final finish:
- Check the surface – walls should be dry, sound, smooth and free from loose paint, dust and old paste. Treat any damp or mould before paper goes up.
- Use the right adhesive – where possible, choose the manufacturer"s own-brand paste (for example, Harlequin or Romo adhesive) or a paste recommended on the roll label.
- Read the hanging instructions supplied with your wallpaper, especially for designer wallpapers and luxury wallcoverings.
- Set up a pasting table – any wipe-clean table will work, but a folding pasting table is ideal if you decorate regularly.
Tip: To stop cut lengths curling while you paste, tuck the ends very lightly under a length of string tied loosely around the table legs.
Step-by-Step: How to Paste Wallpaper (Paste-the-Paper)
Step 1 – Mark a vertical guideline
Start with a true vertical line so your first length hangs straight:
- From the corner or your chosen starting point, measure the width of the wallpaper plus a small margin.
- Use a spirit level or plumb line to draw a vertical guideline from ceiling to skirting.
- This line marks the position of the first strip"s edge and helps keep the pattern running straight around the room.
Step 2 – Measure the wall height
Next, work out how long each drop needs to be:
- Measure from skirting to ceiling in several places.
- Note the tallest measurement and add a little extra for trimming at the top and bottom.
- If your wallpaper has a pattern repeat, allow for this when cutting each length (see also our guide to estimating wallpaper quantities).
Step 3 – Cut the first length, allowing for trimming
Use your measurement to cut the first strip of wallpaper:
- Roll out the wallpaper on the table, face down.
- Add around 20cm at the top and 20cm at the bottom (or as recommended by your decorator) to give trimming allowance.
- Cut the strip cleanly with a sharp knife or scissors so the edges remain crisp.
Step 4 – Apply paste and let it soak
This is the heart of the paste-the-paper method:
- With the paper still face down, apply paste evenly from the centre outwards using a paste brush or roller.
- Pay particular attention to the edges so they do not dry out or lift once on the wall.
- Fold the pasted strip gently in on itself (known as "booking") so pasted sides touch, without creasing the paper.
- Leave it to rest for around 8–10 minutes – or whatever "soak time" is stated on the label. This allows the paper to expand fully before hanging, reducing the risk of bubbles.
Step 5 – Hang the strip to the guideline
Once the soak time has passed, you are ready to hang:
- Unfold the top portion of the strip and take it to the wall.
- Offer the strip up so that the right-hand edge lines up with your vertical guideline.
- Smooth the paper onto the wall using a paperhanger"s brush or plastic smoother, working from the centre out to remove air bubbles.
- Gently ease the paper into the ceiling line and skirting, then trim the excess with a sharp knife.
Step 6 – Continue with additional lengths
Repeat the process with each subsequent length:
- Cut, paste and soak each strip in turn, following the same timings.
- Butt the edges carefully together – do not overlap – and match the pattern as you go.
- Wipe away any excess paste immediately with a damp, clean sponge, especially on metallic or delicate finishes.
- Avoid over-working or stretching the paper; if in doubt, gently lift and re-position rather than forcing it.
When to Use a Professional
For standard papers, a confident DIYer can often achieve a good result with care and patience. However, for:
- 3D wallcoverings and sculpted designs
- textile wallcoverings and grasscloth
- Very expensive or bespoke luxury wallpapers
we would usually recommend using an experienced professional decorator. All of our luxury and designer wallpapers are supplied with detailed hanging instructions, and your installer should always follow the manufacturer"s recommendations.
If you are unsure, our team can help you choose suitable products and point you towards experienced paper hangers in many areas.