Self-adhesive Wallpaper
Installation Guide
For pre-pasted, peel-and-stick wallpaper panels. Read the full guide before you begin — surface compatibility affects your warranty.
You can DIY this — but we recommend hiring a professional installer for the best results.
Before You Begin
Before applying the wallpaper, please read this installation guide carefully. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us — we're happy to help!
You'll need:
- A Sharp Knife
- A Straight Edge
- A Clean Microfiber Cloth
- A Step Ladder
- A Helper, If Possible
Non-Recommended Surfaces
Self-adhesive wallpaper works best on smooth, flat surfaces. Avoid applying it to the following surfaces, as the adhesive may not stick properly or could cause damage when removed:
Textured Walls — Uneven surfaces may trap air bubbles, preventing proper adhesion.
Existing Wallpaper — Applying over old wallpaper is not recommended, as peeling off may damage the underlying layer.
Brick / Cinderblock — Rough surfaces prevent adhesion.
Wooden Walls — Similar to brick, wallpaper may peel off over time.
Unpainted Drywall / Plaster — The paper surface may tear when removing the wallpaper.
Latex Paint — Some latex paints may not allow the wallpaper to stick. Test with a sample before applying.
Old Plaster or Paint — Removing the wallpaper may cause the paint or plaster to peel off.
Moldy Walls — Adhesive cannot bond properly to moist surfaces.
Bathrooms — Not recommended for areas with high humidity. If you wish to install it in a bathroom, test with a sample for 7–14 days before full application.
Kitchens — Be cautious when applying near sinks or high-humidity areas.
When You're About to Apply
Starting at the top of your marked line, peel back about 12 in (30 cm) of the backing paper and press the panel firmly against the wall. Continue peeling and smoothing downward in short sections, working out air bubbles as you go with a plastic smoother. Avoid pulling the backing off all at once — it makes the panel harder to position accurately.
Preparing Your Wall
Before installing your wallpaper, ensure that the wall is smooth and clean. Remove any loose wallpaper, peeling or cracked paint, as well as nails and screws. Sand the surface thoroughly and fill in any holes or cracks. For absorbent surfaces, apply a suitable wallpaper primer to prepare the wall properly.
Getting Your Panels Ready
Each panel will be delivered labeled and numbered. Before starting the installation, unroll all panels and inspect them carefully. Lay them out in sequential order to ensure they are installed correctly. Also, check that the dimensions match your order before beginning the application.
Hanging Direction
Draw the plumb line one panel-width from your starting corner. Panel 1's right edge aligns to that line (its left edge wraps a little around the corner). Every panel after that hangs to the right, its left edge butted against the previous panel's right edge — left corner to right wall, one continuous pass.
Wall Junctions & Excess
Wall junctions may not always be perfectly vertical. Before applying the wallpaper, check the starting points of the wall, and if there is any misalignment, position the wallpaper accordingly before installation.
Your mural is printed slightly larger than your specified dimensions to allow for excess. When installing the first panel, be sure to use the vertical excess (typically 50mm / 2 inches) to accommodate any uneven walls. A spirit level can be useful to ensure the panel is hung as straight as possible.
Continue Installing
As you apply the wallpaper, use a soft, dry cloth or a smoothing tool to eliminate any ripples or bubbles. When hanging additional strips, ensure they do not overlap. Align the images or patterns precisely and place the edges flush against each other. Pressing the strips firmly will help make the seams less visible. Be mindful of the adhesive during installation — if any gets on the wallpaper's surface, gently dab it off with a clean cloth.
After installation, allow the wallpaper to dry at room temperature for at least 24 hours, ensuring it is not exposed to significant fluctuations in temperature or humidity.
Still Have Questions?
Can I remove and reposition self-adhesive wallpaper?
Yes, within reason — you can peel a panel back and reposition it a few times while hanging it. Once it's been up for a while, repeated removal weakens the adhesive.
Do I need wallpaper paste for self-adhesive panels?
No — self-adhesive panels are pre-pasted, so you don't need separate wallpaper paste. Just a smoothing tool and a sharp knife will do.
What if I see bubbles after installation?
Small bubbles usually settle within a day as the adhesive sets. If one persists, gently lift that section and re-smooth it outward with your smoothing tool.