How to Apply Paint Over Wallpaper

Paint over a wall with wallpaper on it.

It is not typically advised to paint over wallpaper. However, if your wallpaper has already been painted, it may be nearly impossible to remove. In such situations, it makes sense to paint the wallpaper rather than try to remove it.

Things You'll Need

• Primer
• Drywall Tape
• Drywall Compound
• Paint

Instructions

1. Apply a coat of primer to the wallpaper. This will seal off the wallpaper and prevent the wallpaper ink from bleeding into the paint you apply. Use an alkyd oil primer to create a moisture resistant seal. This will prevent the paint you apply from re-wetting the wallpaper.

2. Tape each wallpaper seam with drywall tape and apply a drywall compound over the tape. Be sure to feather out the drywall compound 18 to 24 inches around the seam to create a smooth appearance.

3. Apply another coat of primer over the wall once the drywall compound has dried.

4. Apply paint the same way you would to any other wall. Choose a flat or satin sheen paint to avoid drawing attention to the seems you covered.

References

• Painting and Decorating Concourse: Painting Over Wallpaper