Don’t start hanging wallpaper until you have these essential tools. The right gear prevents damage to your walls and the wallpaper itself, saving you time and money.
The core tools needed to hang wallpaper
You’ll need a comprehensive set of tools for every stage of the process: surface preparation, wallpaper application, and finishing touches. Cutting corners here leads to mistakes that are hard to fix.
Surface preparation tools
Before you even unroll a single sheet, your walls must be perfectly smooth and clean. This is non-negotiable for a professional look.
- Putty knife or scraper: Essential for removing old wallpaper, paint, or any loose material. Look for a flexible steel blade, 2 to 4 inches wide. For stubborn old wallpaper, a heavy-duty 6-inch scraper might be necessary.
- Sanding block and sandpaper: After scraping, you’ll need to sand down any rough patches or old adhesive residue. Use medium-grit (100-120) sandpaper for general smoothing and fine-grit (150-220) for a final touch. A sanding block ensures even pressure.
- Cleaning supplies: A bucket, warm water, and a mild detergent are needed to wash down the walls. A sponge or a clean cloth will help remove dust and grime. For greasy walls (like in a kitchen), a degreaser might be required.
- Drop cloths: Protect your floors and furniture from dust, debris, and stray adhesive. Canvas or plastic drop cloths are suitable. Ensure they cover the entire work area.
- Primer: Applying a coat of wallpaper primer seals porous surfaces, prevents the wallpaper adhesive from soaking in too quickly, and makes future removal much easier. Choose a water-based primer designed for wallpaper application.
Wallpaper application tools
These are the tools you’ll use directly with the wallpaper and adhesive.
- Measuring tape: A standard 25-foot steel measuring tape is crucial for accurately measuring your walls and cutting wallpaper strips.
- Pencil: Use a soft lead pencil (like a No. 2) to mark measurements lightly on the back of the wallpaper or on the wall.
- Straight edge or metal ruler: Use this along with a utility knife to make perfectly straight cuts on your wallpaper. A 36-inch metal ruler is ideal.
- Utility knife and extra blades: A sharp utility knife is critical for trimming excess wallpaper. Always use a fresh, sharp blade for each cut. Dull blades tear the paper, creating a messy edge. Keep a pack of replacement blades handy.
- Wallpaper paste (if needed): Some wallpapers come pre-pasted and just need water. Others, especially traditional or fabric-backed types, require separate wallpaper paste. Choose a paste suitable for your wallpaper type (e.g., clear for light colors, heavier duty for textured papers).
- Paste brush or roller: If your wallpaper isn’t pre-pasted, you’ll need a way to apply the adhesive evenly. A wide paste brush (4 to 6 inches) or a dedicated paste roller works well. Ensure even coverage without lumps.
- Straightedge smoothing brush: This is one of the most important tools. A wide, soft-bristled brush, often called a ‘smoothing brush’ or ‘wilder brush,’ is used to gently press the wallpaper onto the wall, removing air bubbles and ensuring adhesion. Look for brushes with soft, natural bristles. Vintage wallpaper brushes can offer excellent quality and durability.
- Seam roller: A small, hard plastic or metal roller used to firmly press down wallpaper seams after the paper has been smoothed. This ensures the seams lie flat and stay adhered. Use with caution on delicate papers to avoid crushing the pattern.
- Plumb bob or laser level: Essential for hanging the first strip perfectly straight. A plumb bob (a weight on a string) is a classic tool. A laser level provides a clear, continuous line, making it easier to ensure each subsequent strip is aligned correctly.
- Bucket for water: Needed for rinsing tools and potentially for activating pre-pasted wallpaper.
- Step ladder or scaffolding: Ensure you have safe and stable access to all areas of your walls. A sturdy step ladder is usually sufficient for most rooms, but consider scaffolding for high ceilings.
Finishing tools
These tools help you achieve a clean, seamless look.
- Trim guide or corner tool: A specialized tool that helps create a crisp edge where wallpaper meets the ceiling, baseboard, or corners. It guides your knife for a clean cut.
- Exacto knife or craft knife: Useful for small touch-ups or trimming intricate areas around outlets and fixtures.
- Sponge: A clean, damp sponge is vital for wiping away excess paste that squeezes out from the seams. Wipe gently and frequently.
- Clean cloths or towels: For drying seams and wiping up any spills.
Choosing the right wallpapering tools
When selecting your tools, prioritize quality and suitability for the type of wallpaper you’re using.
Quality matters
Cheap tools can lead to frustration and poor results. A good quality smoothing brush, for instance, will have soft bristles that don’t shed and will effectively remove air bubbles without damaging the paper. A sharp utility knife with readily available replacement blades ensures clean cuts every time.
Material considerations
For most tools, standard materials like steel, durable plastic, and natural bristles are fine. However, be mindful of the wallpaper material. If you’re working with delicate silks or papers, you’ll want softer brushes and rollers to avoid crushing the material. For vinyl or heavy-duty papers, you can afford to be a bit more robust.
Ergonomics and ease of use
You’ll be using these tools for extended periods. Look for comfortable handles on brushes, knives, and measuring tapes. Tools that are easy to grip and maneuver will reduce fatigue and improve accuracy.
Mistakes to avoid with wallpapering tools
Even with the best tools, improper use can ruin your wallpaper job.
- Using a dull knife: This is a cardinal sin. A dull blade will tear the wallpaper, leaving ragged edges that are impossible to hide. Always start with a fresh blade and change it frequently.
- Overworking seams: While you need to ensure seams are well-adhered, aggressive use of a seam roller can flatten embossed patterns or damage delicate papers. Apply firm, even pressure, but don’t press so hard that you distort the wallpaper.
- Not cleaning up excess paste: Dried paste stains are unsightly and very difficult to remove. Wipe away any excess adhesive gently with a damp sponge immediately after smoothing each strip. Rinse the sponge frequently.
- Ignoring air bubbles: Small bubbles you miss during smoothing can become permanent once the paste dries. Work methodically, smoothing from the center outwards to push air towards the edges where it can escape.
- Rushing the process: Wallpapering requires patience and precision. Don’t try to cut corners on preparation or application. Take your time with measurements, cuts, and smoothing.
Investing in a good set of wallpapering tools is crucial for a successful and professional-looking wallpaper installation. These tools will not only make the job easier but will also significantly improve the final outcome, ensuring your walls look their best.