How Many Rolls of Wallpaper Do I Need? A Real-World Measuring Guide (With Examples)

Choosing wallpaper is never just about picking a pattern—it’s about shaping the story your walls will tell. Before you can bring a space to life with Canvas & Ivy’s designs, it’s crucial to know exactly how many wallpaper rolls you’ll need. As wall storytellers who obsess about color, pattern, and fit, we want you to feel empowered by this process. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or designer, this step-by-step guide demystifies measuring, calculating, and ordering wallpaper—so your walls unfold exactly as you’ve imagined.

Why Accurate Wallpaper Measurements Matter

Getting the right quantity isn’t just about avoiding waste or cost overruns—it’s also about making sure every detail lines up, shades match perfectly, and your vision is uninterrupted by last-minute shortages. We’ve seen how 20% overage saves a project from being derailed by a last strip or a mis-cut Panel. And by ordering everything at once, you avoid minor dye lot differences that are only visible once the paper is up.

• Consistency: Ordering in one batch means no subtle color shade differences.
• Pattern Continuity: Running out and needing to patch in later can ruin pattern alignment.
• Budget Control: Knowing your quantities avoids costly rush orders or leftover rolls you can’t return.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Measure and Calculate for Wallpaper

1. Gather Tools
   • Measuring tape (standard and metric recommended for accuracy)
   • Notepad or mobile note app
   • Calculator (or use our Wallpaper Calculator)
2. Measure Your Walls
   • Measure the height of your wall from finished floor to finished ceiling.
   • Write down the width of each wall you plan to paper.
   • List obstacles (windows, doors) but don’t subtract yet—trimmings usually even out these areas.
3. Calculate Total Wall Surface
   • Add together the widths of all walls you’ll be covering for the total width.
   • Multiply by the wall height (convert inches to feet for consistency).
   • Example:
     • Room is 12 feet wide x 15 feet long, 9 feet high.
     • Total width to cover (all four walls): (12 + 15 + 12 + 15) = 54 feet.
     • Total area: 54 feet x 9 feet = 486 sq ft.
4. Account for Pattern Repeat
   • Each wallpaper roll has a pattern repeat (for Canvas & Ivy, often 24" vertical repeat, but verify on the product page).
   • This affects how much extra you’ll need so designs align perfectly at the seams.
   • For a 9-foot (108") wall with a 24" repeat: 108 / 24 = 4.5, so round up to 5 repeats. 5 x 24" = 120" (10 feet per strip).
   • Add this pattern repeat allowance to your calculations. Our calculator does this automatically.
5. Choose Your Material & Roll Size
   • Roll width for Canvas & Ivy: 24 inches
   • Single roll: 24" x 13' (covers roughly 26 square feet)
   • Double roll: 24" x 27' (covers roughly 54 square feet)
   • Pick material: Peel & Stick (easiest DIY, renter-friendly), Pre-Pasted (water-activated), or Traditional Non Woven (professional, longest lasting).
6. Divide to Find Roll Quantity
   • Total adjusted area / coverage per roll = rolls needed
   • Always round up. Order an extra roll or two for repairs, patching, and peace of mind.
   • Calculator automatically includes 20% overage to allow for trimming, pattern matching, and odd shapes.

Common Real-World Examples for Canvas & Ivy Roll Quantities

Example: Accent Wall Calculation (Orbitline Wallpaper)

• Wall size: 12 ft wide x 9 ft high (108 sq ft)
• Double roll covers: ~54 sq ft each
• Calculation: 108 / 54 = 2 -- add 20% (to cover waste and match), so round up to 3 rolls

Accent walls (like behind a bed or in a hallway) are a smart way to experiment with bold designs such as Orbitline’s atomic bursts, often requiring just a few rolls. You can shop Orbitline Wallpaper here.

Tips for Different Spaces & Special Scenarios

• Rooms with Many Doors/Windows: If more than 20% of wall area is openings, subtract accordingly. For standard rooms, it’s safer to ignore or you risk running short due to trim and match requirements.
• Bathrooms & Kitchens: Good ventilation is key. Our materials are designed for powder rooms or kitchens away from direct water contact. See our Help Center for details.
• Feature Walls: For dramatic impact with less cost, measure just the target wall and use the method above.
• Pattern Scale: Large bold repeats (for example, Lotus Crown, Empire Gilt) may require extra rolls due to matching—our Calculator will account for this.

Ensuring a Seamless Project

• Order all rolls at once for a single dye lot.
• Keep a reference of the design and color (offcut) for future patching if needed.
• If you’re new to wallpaper or working with specialty finishes, consider ordering a sample or panel first—the real thing is always better than a screen!
• Don’t forget to include the correct installation prep: smooth walls, dust-free, with time for paint to cure before install.

Common Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them

• Skipping the overage: Always add 20%. One miscut or pattern shift can otherwise lead to a frustrating shortage.
• Not checking pattern repeat: Confirm the size of the repeat on each pattern page. This can change how much extra is needed if you use multiple designs in a room.
• Not testing for wall texture: Peel & Stick works best on smooth, finished walls. If your wall is textured, test a sample first so that adhesion isn’t compromised.
• Overlooking batch codes: Slight variations can occur between print runs. Best to get it all at once for a flawless finish.

For more practical advice on wallpaper installation and common errors, see our detailed blog Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Mistakes You Can Avoid in One Afternoon (and What to Do Instead).

Tailored Help: Our Tools and Guidance

• Use the Canvas & Ivy Wallpaper Calculator for instant roll estimates and peace of mind.
• Not sure which material fits your space or need custom guidance? Try our Wallpaper Quiz or email support@canvasandivy.com for one-on-one help.
• If you’re a professional or want to take advantage of volume discounts, see our Trade Program.

Final Notes (and a Friendly Plug)

Great wallpaper is transformative, but getting the measuring right is where magic meets reality. At Canvas & Ivy, we approach every design with a sense of wonder and precision, so you can create a home that’s both beautiful and personal. Don’t forget to browse our range of storied wallpapers—and if your journey has you searching for inspiration or technical support, reach out to us any time. Each order is made-to-measure and designed to help your space tell its own story.