Wallpapering for the first time can feel a bit daunting — rolls everywhere, paste on the floor, and that fear of getting the pattern wrong 😅
The good news? With the right prep, tools, and a bit of know-how, wallpapering is absolutely something you can do yourself — and the results can be transformational.
Whether you’re tackling a feature wall or a full room, this guide will walk you through exactly how to get it right the first time.
Why Wallpaper Is Worth the Effort
Wallpaper has come a long way in recent years. Modern wallpapers are easier to hang, more durable, and designed to suit every style — from calm neutrals to bold statement walls.
Wallpaper is ideal for:
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Adding instant personality to a room
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Creating feature walls without major disruption
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Hiding small wall imperfections
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Achieving a designer look without a designer budget
Explore our full wallpaper collection – https://www.noblettswallpaper.com
Step One: Choose the Right Wallpaper for Beginners
Stick to Paste-the-Wall Wallpaper
If it’s your first time wallpapering, paste-the-wall wallpaper is your best friend. It’s cleaner, quicker, and far more forgiving than traditional paste-the-paper designs.
Start with Simple Patterns
Bold murals are beautiful, but beginners should start with:
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Plain or textured wallpapers
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Small repeat patterns
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Subtle geometrics
Browse our beginner-friendly wallpapers (e.g. plain, textured or small repeat designs)
Step Two:
Measure Properly (This Matters!)
One of the most common first-time mistakes is under-ordering wallpaper.
How to Measure Your Walls
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Measure the height and width of each wall
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Add all wall widths together
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Subtract doors and windows only if they’re large
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Always allow for pattern repeat and wastage
💡 Tip: Ordering an extra roll is cheaper than trying to colour-match later.
Step Three: Prep Your Walls Like a Pro
Clean, Smooth Walls Are Essential
Wallpaper won’t hide bumps or flaking paint — it’ll highlight them.
Before you start:
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Fill cracks and holes
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Sand back rough areas
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Remove old wallpaper fully
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Clean walls with sugar soap
Do You Need Lining Paper?
If your walls are uneven or newly plastered, lining paper helps create a smooth base and improves adhesion.
Step Four: Get the Right Tools
Having everything to hand will make the job smoother and far less stressful.
Wallpapering Essentials Checklist
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Wallpaper paste (suitable for your paper)
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Roller or pasting brush
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Sharp snap-off knife
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Spirit level or plumb line
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Smoothing brush
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Seam roller
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Clean sponge & bucket
Step Five: How to Hang Wallpaper Correctly
Start Straight (Always!)
The first drop sets the tone for the whole wall.
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Use a spirit level to draw a vertical guideline
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Don’t rely on corners — walls are rarely straight
Take Your Time Matching Patterns
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Dry hang the next drop before pasting
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Match the pattern at eye level
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Trim excess at ceiling and skirting last
Smooth From the Centre Out
This helps prevent bubbles and creases.
Common First-Time Wallpapering Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
❌ Rushing the Prep
✔ Take time to prep properly — it saves hours later
❌ Not Letting Paste Soak In
✔ Follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly
❌ Using a Blunt Blade
✔ Change your blade often for clean edges
❌ Overstretching the Paper
✔ Let the wallpaper sit naturally — don’t pull it tight
Can You Wallpaper a Feature Wall First?
Absolutely — and we recommend it.
Feature walls are perfect for:
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First-time DIYers
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Bold or patterned wallpaper
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Living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways
Final Tips for First-Time Wallpapering Success
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Work in good light
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Keep windows closed while hanging
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Clean paste splashes immediately
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Step back regularly to check alignment
And remember — even professionals started somewhere. Small imperfections are rarely noticeable once furniture and décor are in place.
Need Help Choosing Wallpaper?
At Nobletts Wallpaper, we’ve been helping customers transform their homes for generations. If you’re unsure where to start, we’re always happy to help — in-store or online.Shop Wallpaper Online at Nobletts – https://www.noblettswallpaper.com
Contact Our Team for Expert Advice
