How to wallpaper a corner with peel and stick
To wallpaper an inside corner with peel and stick, overlap the second panel over the first by about 1/2 inch and trim excess. For an outside corner, wrap the first panel around, then overlap the second panel on top and trim.
Wallpapering a corner presents a unique challenge, especially with peel and stick products. The key is careful measurement, precise cutting, and strategic overlap to ensure the pattern aligns and the paper adheres smoothly. Unlike traditional wallpaper, peel and stick offers a forgiving application, allowing for repositioning, which is a significant advantage when navigating tricky corners.
Before you begin, gather your tools: a sharp utility knife or craft knife with extra blades, a smoothing tool (like a plastic smoother or a credit card), a measuring tape, a level or straightedge, a clean cloth or sponge, and a stepladder if necessary. Ensure your walls are clean, dry, and smooth. Any imperfections can show through or prevent proper adhesion.
Preparing your walls for peel and stick wallpaper
Peel and stick wallpaper adheres best to smooth, non-porous surfaces. Thoroughly clean your walls to remove any dust, grease, or residue. If your walls are heavily textured or have a glossy finish, you might need to lightly sand them or apply a primer specifically designed for peel and stick applications. For new drywall, ensure it’s properly primed and sealed. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific surface preparation recommendations, as some may advise against certain primers or finishes.
How to wallpaper an inside corner
For inside corners, you’ll typically be working with two pieces of wallpaper. Start by applying the first strip of wallpaper, allowing it to extend past the corner onto the adjacent wall by about 1 to 2 inches. This overlap is crucial for a secure and visually seamless finish. Smooth out the wallpaper, working from the center outwards, and use your smoothing tool to press it firmly into the corner crease. Ensure there are no air bubbles.
Next, measure the remaining width of the wall from the edge of the first strip to the next point where you need to end your wallpaper. Cut your second strip to this width, plus an extra 1/2 inch for overlap. Apply this second strip, overlapping it onto the first strip by approximately 1/2 inch. This overlap should extend onto the wall with the first strip already applied. Carefully align the pattern if your wallpaper has one. Once positioned, use your smoothing tool to press down the overlapping edge. Finally, use a sharp blade and a straightedge to trim away the excess wallpaper where the two strips meet in the corner. You can also score the overlap down the center of the seam and peel away the excess from both sides for a cleaner finish. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe away any adhesive residue.
How to wallpaper an outside corner
Outside corners require a slightly different approach. Apply the first strip of wallpaper, wrapping it around the corner onto the adjacent wall by at least 1 to 2 inches. Smooth it down firmly, paying special attention to the edge of the corner to prevent lifting. This wrap-around method provides stability and prevents the wallpaper from peeling away.
For the second strip, measure the remaining width needed on the second wall, adding about 1/2 inch for overlap. Apply this second strip so that it overlaps the first strip by approximately 1/2 inch. Again, pattern matching is important here. Smooth the second strip down, ensuring a firm bond, especially over the overlapping section. You will then trim the excess. A common technique is to score a line about 1/8 inch away from the corner edge on the overlap and then carefully remove the excess material from both sides of the score line. This creates a clean seam that sits flat against the wall. Use a damp cloth to clean up any adhesive.
Tips for a professional finish
Always start from the top and work your way down, smoothing out air bubbles as you go. If you make a mistake, peel the wallpaper back slowly and reposition it. Peel and stick is forgiving, but don’t stretch the material, as this can distort the pattern and affect adhesion.
When cutting, use a sharp blade. A dull blade will tear the paper and create a ragged edge. Change blades frequently for clean cuts. For patterned wallpaper, pay close attention to pattern matching, especially at the corner seams. It’s often better to have a slight overlap with a well-matched pattern than a straight seam with misaligned designs.
Consider the direction of your wallpaper. Most peel and stick wallpaper is designed to be applied vertically. Ensure you are maintaining this orientation around corners. For very sharp or irregular corners, you might need to make relief cuts in the wallpaper to help it lie flat before trimming. Don’t be afraid to use your smoothing tool vigorously to ensure good adhesion, especially in the corners and over overlaps.
Common mistakes to avoid when wallpapering corners
One of the most common mistakes is not allowing for enough overlap. This can lead to the wallpaper pulling away from the corner or seams splitting over time. Another error is using a dull blade, which results in jagged edges that are difficult to conceal. Forgetting to smooth out air bubbles can leave unsightly bumps under the wallpaper.
For inside corners, trying to get a perfectly straight seam without any overlap is a frequent error. The overlap provides structural integrity. Similarly, for outside corners, failing to wrap the wallpaper sufficiently around the corner means it’s more likely to peel. Finally, not aligning the pattern correctly across the corner can make the entire wall look unprofessional, even if the application is technically sound.
Common Mistakes When Wallpapering Corners
| Step or Tool | Typical Mistake | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring for second strip | Not accounting for overlap | Always add at least 1/2 inch to your measurement for the overlap on the next strip. |
| Cutting the wallpaper | Using a dull blade | Use a sharp utility knife or craft knife and change blades frequently for clean, precise cuts. |
| Applying wallpaper | Not smoothing out air bubbles | Use a smoothing tool (plastic smoother, credit card) and work from the center outwards to push out all air pockets. |
| Inside corner application | Trying for a butt seam (no overlap) | Always overlap the second strip over the first by about 1/2 inch and trim the excess for a secure bond. |
| Outside corner application | Not wrapping enough around the corner | Wrap the first strip around the corner by at least 1-2 inches to ensure it adheres well and doesn’t peel. |
FAQ
Can I wallpaper over textured corners with peel and stick?
Peel and stick wallpaper adheres best to smooth surfaces. Heavily textured corners may require sanding or a primer to ensure proper adhesion. Check the wallpaper manufacturer’s recommendations for specific surface requirements.
How do I handle a curved corner with peel and stick wallpaper?
Curved corners are more challenging. You may need to make small, vertical relief cuts in the wallpaper as you apply it to help it conform to the curve. Then, carefully trim any excess. Some prefer to use a single, wider piece and make strategic cuts to manage the curve.
What if my peel and stick wallpaper doesn’t stick well in the corner?
Ensure the wall surface is clean and dry. If it’s still not adhering, you might need to use a small amount of wallpaper adhesive specifically designed for peel and stick, applied sparingly just to the corner or seam area. However, use this as a last resort, as it can affect removability.
How important is pattern matching in corners?
Pattern matching is crucial for a professional look, especially in prominent corners. Take your time to align the pattern on the overlapping strips before smoothing and trimming. It’s often worth cutting a new piece if the match isn’t perfect.