How to Wallpaper Around Windows: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction | Step 1: Choosing the Right Starting Point | Step 2: Hanging Wallpaper Around Window Recess | Step 3: Measuring & Cutting Wallpaper | Filling Gaps and Seams | Wallpapering Underneath the Window | Finishing Touches & Clean-Up | Tips for Deep Window Reveals | Common Mistakes to Avoid

Step 1: Choosing the Right Starting Point

Choose the right starting point for a successful wallpapering project. Center the first strip over a prominent feature, like a window, when using large patterned wallpaper to maintain symmetry. For small patterned wallpaper, centering the design is often unnecessary, allowing for more flexibility in choosing the starting point.

Take your roll and line it's centre up with the centre of the window, then mark wall on the right of the roll, line the left edge of the roll with this mark and keep doing this until you pass edge of the window.

This will give you the place to draw your plumb line and hang your first length.

Avoid starting at corners to achieve accurate vertical alignment during wallpapering. Right-handed people typically find it easier to wallpaper in a clockwise direction, while left-handed individuals may prefer going anti-clockwise.

 

Step 2: Hanging Wallpaper Around Window Recess

When wallpapering around a window recess break the process down into these 

• Stick the first strip on the wall by lining it up against the plumb line.
• Now mark the paper with a pencil where it meets the bottom edge of the wall.
• Make a cut vertical up the mark and horizontally
• repeat these steps at the top of window recess.
• the paper should now fold into the recess
• Paste the wall and smooth paper out with your brush.
• Trim the top and bottom excess

Step 3: Measuring and Cutting Wallpaper

Accurate measurements are the cornerstone of a successful wallpapering project around windows. Failing to measure the spaces properly before cutting the wallpaper can result in poorly fitting pieces that disrupt the overall pattern. Ensure that the wallpaper strip is long enough to span from the ceiling to above the window and into the recess, with extra for trimming. When cutting wallpaper for a window reveal, add an extra centimeter to ensure proper overlap during application.

A sharp craft knife with snap-off blades is necessary for cutting neat lines when wallpapering. For deep reveals, you may need to cut a section of wallpaper to fill in any gaps, ensuring the pattern aligns correctly.

Taking the time to measure and cut accurately will save you from headaches and ensure a professional-looking finish.

Pasting and Smoothing Wallpaper

Once you’ve measured and cut your wallpaper, the next step is to paste and smooth it around the window. To create a polished finish, ensure any air bubbles are smoothed out using a wallpaper brush or a plastic spatula. Evaluate the finished work for any air bubbles, creases, or loose edges, and use a smoothing tool to correct these issues.

Use a wallpaper brush or hand to smooth overlapping wallpaper from the top down onto the window frame. Utilize a seam roller to ensure the wallpaper adheres securely at the joining points. Applying extra adhesive may be necessary to secure any loose areas of wallpaper and to ensure it remains firmly in place.

Excess adhesive should be removed from the wallpaper surface with a damp sponge to prevent visible marks once dried. By taking these steps, you ensure a smooth and professional finish.

Trimming Excess Paper

Trimming excess wallpaper helps to achieve a neat finish. A double seam cut technique is effective for removing overlapping wallpaper, ensuring precise alignment around the window reveal. Leave a 1-2 inch overhang of wallpaper around the window frame for easier trimming. If the window does not have a recess, make horizontal cuts at the top and bottom and cut off the excess flap.

Cut horizontally along the top of the reveal from the edge of the paper toward the side. Improper trimming of excess paper can leave unsightly edges, affecting the overall appearance. By trimming carefully and precisely, you ensure a clean and polished look for your wallpapering project.

Filling Gaps and Seams

Filling gaps and seams is essential for a polished look. Take an offcut with a 10-15 cm overlap, paste the paper over the paper above the recess, and fold it into the recess. Trim any excess paper. Do this where it meets the window frame. Cut a piece of wallpaper that matches the pattern and is long enough to fill the infill area.

To splice infill sections, extend the infill section by 75 mm-100 mm. For a polished look, consider splicing infill sections with adjoining wallpaper pieces instead of overlapping. Carefully filling gaps and seams ensures a seamless and professional finish for your wallpapering project.

Wallpapering Underneath the Window

When wallpapering underneath the window, ensure that the wallpaper strip is long enough to extend beyond the window recess for trimming purposes. Cut the wallpaper long enough to account for overlaps at the top and sides. If the window sill protrudes, ensure to cut an appropriate shape in the wallpaper to accommodate it.

Aligning and trimming excess paper properly is crucial for a professional finish beneath the window. Accurate alignment and trimming ensure a seamless and polished look for your wallpapering project.

Finishing Touches and Clean-Up

After wallpapering, it’s essential to add the finishing touches and clean up properly. To improve the look of open seams, you can colour them with a crayon or felt-tip pen that matches the wallpaper. Using watercolors matching the wallpaper’s shade can effectively camouflage open seams when applied carefully. Excess adhesive can be wiped away with a clean, damp cloth to avoid unsightly marks on the wallpaper.

Dispose of scraps to maintain a tidy workspace and minimise clutter. Clean tools thoroughly after wallpapering and store them in a designated area for future projects. By taking these steps, you ensure a professional finish and a clean, organised workspace.

Tips for Deep Window Reveals

Deep window reveals can pose additional challenges, but with the right approach, they can be managed effectively. Use a sharp knife to cut the wallpaper at the top of the window frame. Make sure to do it carefully along the edge. Measure a roll of wallpaper before placing it in a deep window reveal to ensure it fits properly.

Maintain a stable environment to prevent seams from opening due to temperature changes during drying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes significantly impacts the success of your wallpapering project. Uncertainty in tackling areas around windows can create challenges during wallpapering. Awareness of common pitfalls reduces uncertainty and improves the overall outcome.

Selecting a busy wallpaper pattern can help mask mismatched seams better than simpler designs. A successful wallpapering project requires patience and attention to detail.