How to Hang Wallpaper on a Stairway

Rate: (0 Ratings)

Hanging wallpaper can be a tedious job anyway, but on a stairway it is a particular challenge, especially with the fact that each length will be different, from very long to very short. The job can be done but it requires a little more measuring and a little more patience to do the work well. Good planning is key here, as you will probably require a helper and possibly even some ladders if the stairwell is particularly high ceilinged.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Wallpaper
Glue (if not already on the paper)
A work table
Yard stick
Marker
Scissors/boxcutter
Ladder (if needed)

How to Hang Wallpaper on a Stairway

Step1

Measure each segment of wall space very carefully. You are dealing with steps here so make sure you measure the shape of the steps before you begin cutting your wall paper. Depending on how high the ceiling is in your stairway, you may need to build a temporary 'scaffolding' of sorts, using ladders.

Step2

Measure your first fall of paper. Add three or four inches to your measurement so you can trim both ends if need be. Unroll the paper on the paste table to the desired length and cut. Take into account how your paper pattern will look at the top when trimmed.

Step3

Using a yardstick, draw a vertical line on your wall where you want your first sheet of paper to go. Holding the paper in both hands, slightly away from the wall, line it up with your mark. Remember to allow an overlap at the top for trimming and gently press the paper against the wall, making any tiny adjustments of its position by sliding the paper gently.

Step4

Tuck the next sheet of paper snug up against the first one, making sure to keep the edges straight and the pattern on the paper matched up. Adjust the length of the paper at the bottom according to the height of the step.

Step5

Trim the paper very carefully around handrail supports. Use a pencil to mark the place to be cut on the paper as it hangs on the wall in the place where you want it. Use a sharp box cutter to slice the paper on the mark. Tuck the edges of the paper around the supports and smooth it down carefully.

Tips & Warnings

Make sure that the pattern lines up on all your sheets before they are firmly glued into place.
Take your time and get the job done right the first time so no huge errors are made.
Be careful with your scissors and other cutting tools as you cut your sheets of wallpaper.
Make sure you don't touch your eyes with glue on your hands.
Carefully wash your hands before touching food.