How to Hang Paste-the-Wall (Non-Woven) Wallpaper
Paste-the-wall wallpaper – usually non-woven backed – is designed to make decorating quicker and cleaner. Instead of pasting the back of the paper, you apply adhesive directly to the wall and hang the wallpaper dry. This is the recommended method for most modern non-woven wallpapers and many designer wallpaper brands.
This guide explains the difference between paper-backed and non-woven wallpapers, when to use the paste-the-wall method, and gives a simple step-by-step on how to hang paste-the-wall wallpaper safely and neatly.
If you"re using a traditional paper-backed wallpaper or need to paste the back of the roll, see our separate guide to pasting wallcoverings (paste-the-paper method). For advice on adhesives, read our guide to choosing wallpaper paste.
Wallpaper Backing Types: Paper vs Non-Woven
Most wallpaper today falls into two main backing types:
- Paper-backed wallpaper – usually hung with the traditional paste-the-paper method, although some products can be hung paste-the-wall if the manufacturer allows.
- Non-woven wallpaper – often sold as "paste-the-wall" wallpaper. The non-woven backing is dimensionally stable, so it doesn"t expand when wet, making it ideal for pasting the wall and hanging the wallpaper dry.
Always check the label or hanging instructions. If it states "paste-the-wall" or "non-woven", you can usually follow this method. If in doubt, your decorator or the manufacturer"s technical sheet should be your final reference.
For visual demonstrations, see our video guides:
Preparation: Walls, Tools & Adhesive
Good preparation is just as important with paste-the-wall as with any other method:
- Prepare the wall – fill cracks, sand rough areas and make sure surfaces are dry, solid and free from dust or old paste.
- Use the correct adhesive – many luxury wallpapers, grasscloth and textile wallcoverings specify their own-brand paste. Where offered, use the manufacturer"s recommended adhesive for best results.
- Check pattern & batch – ensure all rolls are the same batch and that the pattern repeat is understood before you start cutting.
For specialist products such as grasscloth wallpaper, textile wallcoverings or heavy vinyls, we normally recommend using an experienced professional decorator.
Step-by-Step: How to Hang Paste-the-Wall Wallpaper
Step 1 – Mark a vertical guideline
Start by ensuring your first drop is perfectly straight:
- From your chosen starting point (often near a corner or main focal wall), measure the width of the wallpaper.
- Use a spirit level or plumb line to draw a vertical guideline from ceiling to skirting.
- This line will guide the first strip and help the pattern stay straight around the room.
Step 2 – Apply paste directly to the wall
With paste-the-wall wallpaper you coat the wall, not the paper:
- Using a medium-pile roller, apply adhesive to the wall in an even layer.
- Cover the full width of the first strip plus an extra 20cm or so to overlap for the next length.
- Use a brush to work paste right into corners, edges, skirting and ceiling lines.
Step 3 – Check coverage at edges
Paste must reach every part of the area the wallpaper will cover:
- Use a brush to work paste right up to the ceiling and skirting boards.
- Double-check around sockets, window reveals and corners so you don"t miss any dry spots that could cause lifting later.
Step 4 – Hang the dry strip
Unlike paste-the-paper, the wallpaper goes up dry:
- Cut your first strip to length, allowing a little extra at the top and bottom for trimming.
- Offer the top of the dry wallpaper to the wall, aligning the edge with your vertical guideline.
- Smooth the paper onto the pasted wall from the centre outwards using a smoother or paperhanger"s brush, easing out any bubbles.
- Crisp the paper into the ceiling and skirting line, then trim the excess with a sharp knife.
Step 5 – Repeat and match the pattern
Continue along the wall with each additional length:
- Apply more adhesive to the next section of wall, slightly overlapping into the previous pasted area.
- Hang the next dry strip, butt-joining the edges without overlapping and carefully matching the pattern.
- Wipe away any excess paste immediately with a damp, clean sponge, especially on metallic or delicate finishes.
- Repeat around the room until all walls (or your chosen feature wall) are complete.
What Paste to Use for Paste-the-Wall Wallpaper?
For many non-woven and paste-the-wall wallpapers, you can use a good-quality ready-mixed non-woven adhesive. However, with heavier wallcoverings such as grasscloth, sisal or certain luxury wallcoverings, the manufacturer may insist on a specific paste.
- Check the roll label or technical sheet for adhesive recommendations.
- Where available, use the manufacturer"s own paste to avoid issues with adhesion, staining or warranty.
- For a full overview of paste types (all-purpose, heavy-duty, fungicidal, stain-free, etc.), see our Guide to choose wallpaper paste.
When to Use a Professional Decorator
Paste-the-wall wallpaper is often marketed as easier for DIY, but there are times when professional help is recommended:
- Rooms with complex shapes, chimney breasts, alcoves or multiple obstacles.
- Very expensive designer or luxury wallpapers where mistakes would be costly.
- Specialist wallcoverings such as 3D wallpapers, textile and natural fibre designs.
All of our designer wallpapers are supplied with detailed hanging instructions. We always recommend that installation is carried out by a professional and experienced decorator for best results.