eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Texture Over Wallpaper

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(36 Ratings)

Wallpaper spotted with fruits and vegetables seemed like a good idea for the kitchen at the time. It might have even looked good the first year it was on the wall. Five years later, however, it most likely is more of an eye sore and it is stuck on like they pasted it with super glue. Don't worry--it is possible to texture over it.

From Quick Guide: Hanging Wallpaper
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

    Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Choose the type of texture you would like. A thick or heavy texture to a thin set that is smooth and anything in between is available now for homeowner do-it-yourselfers.

  2. Step 2

    Measure the dimensions of the wall that is being textured and round up. First timers especially will underestimate and then have to run out and buy more in the middle of the project.

  3. Step 3

    Check wallpaper for lifted seams, gouges and tears. Remove or re-glue all loose or missing wallpaper.

  4. Step 4

    Purchase the correct amount of joint compound, a trowel that fits in your hand comfortably, a bucket to put the joint compound in (this must fit the trowel head) and a water based primer.

  5. Step 5

    Clean off walls so that they are free of dust and dirt. Hairline cracks will be covered by joint compound fine, but larger deeper cracks will need to be fixed with mesh tape and then can be textured over.

  6. Getting Started

  7. Step 1

    Roll the primer on the walls and let dry completely. Do not start texturing before the primer is dry. If vinyl wallpaper, or if the paper is in a humid room like a bathroom or kitchen, use oil based primer and sealer.

  8. Step 2

    Place a substantial amount of joint compound into a bucket with the trowel.

  9. Step 3

    Transfer the joint compound into the bucket. Dip the trowel edge into the joint compound and apply it on the wall with a firm grip on the trowel.

  10. Step 4

    Spread the compound using fanning motions. The more pressure applied the thinner the texture will be. Use the same amount of pressure and the same fanning motions everywhere on the wall. This will lead to a uniform look.

  11. Step 5

    Allow to dry per the instructions. The texture should be chalky when dry--be sure of this before painting. Paint with a bathroom or kitchen paint if in a humid room.

Tips & Warnings
  • If primed and sealed correctly and the layers are let to dry in between, painting over wallpaper should be fine.
Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Related Ads

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This
Get Free Home & Garden Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

eHow Home and Garden
eHow_eHow Home and Garden