How to Apply Wallpaper: Peel & Stick, Traditional, and Pre-Pasted

How to Apply Wallpaper: Peel & Stick, Traditional, and Pre-Pasted

Applying wallpaper doesn’t have to be intimidating. Whether you’re going for a bold mural or a subtle texture, the key to success is knowing the installation method for your wallpaper type. At Canvas & Ivy, we offer three beautiful and distinct application styles—each with its own prep and process.

This guide walks you through step-by-step instructions for applying our:

  • Peel & Stick Polyester Wallpaper
  • Traditional (Unpasted) Wallpaper
  • Pre-Pasted Non-Woven Wallpaper

Let’s make your wallpaper dreams stick—literally.

1. How to Apply Peel & Stick Polyester Wallpaper

Our peel and stick polyester wallpaper is a premium, repositionable material designed for easy, damage-free application. No paste. No mess. No commitment—unless you want it.

What You’ll Need:

  • Level or laser level
  • Sharp utility knife or craft blade
  • Squeegee or plastic smoothing tool
  • Measuring tape
  • Clean microfiber cloth

Prep:

Clean your wall thoroughly with a mild soap and water solution. Let it dry completely. Avoid applying on freshly painted walls—wait at least 3–4 weeks for the paint to cure.

Installation Steps:

  1. Mark a vertical guideline using a level to ensure your first panel goes on straight.
  2. Peel back 6–12 inches of the backing at the top and align it with your mark.
  3. Stick the exposed portion to the wall, smoothing from the center outward with your hand.
  4. Continue slowly peeling and sticking while smoothing with a squeegee to eliminate bubbles.
  5. Trim the excess with a utility knife along baseboards and ceiling edges.
  6. Repeat panel by panel, carefully lining up patterns at the seams.

Pro Tip: If you misplace a panel, gently peel and reposition—it won’t damage your wall or the paper.

2. How to Apply Traditional (Unpasted) Wallpaper

Traditional wallpaper offers a luxurious, long-lasting look—but it does require wallpaper paste and a bit of patience. We recommend a professional installer unless you’re a confident DIYer.

What You’ll Need:

  • Wallpaper paste (non-staining for non-woven paper)
  • Paste brush or roller
  • Seam roller
  • Smoothing tool
  • Level and pencil
  • Sharp utility knife

Prep:

Ensure your wall is smooth, dry, and primed. Patch holes, sand uneven spots, and wipe away dust. A wallpaper primer can improve adhesion and ease future removal.

Installation Steps:

  1. Measure and cut each panel, leaving 2–3 inches excess at the top and bottom.
  2. Apply paste to the back of the wallpaper or directly to the wall (check the instructions on your roll).
  3. Fold the pasted panel loosely (booking) and let it sit for a few minutes if applying to the back.
  4. Align the first panel with your vertical guideline and smooth it from top to bottom.
  5. Use a smoothing tool and seam roller to press out bubbles and flatten the seams.
  6. Trim excess with a sharp blade and repeat with remaining panels.

Pro Tip: Use a damp sponge to wipe away any extra paste immediately—don’t let it dry on the surface.

3. How to Apply Pre-Pasted Non-Woven Wallpaper

Pre-pasted wallpaper includes water-activated adhesive, offering a clean install with less equipment. It’s a favorite for first-timers who want a polished result without extra paste.

What You’ll Need:

  • Large water tray or spray bottle
  • Sponge or towel
  • Level, pencil, and scissors
  • Smoothing tool
  • Sharp knife

Prep:

Wipe walls clean and let dry. Mark your starting line using a level to ensure straight alignment.

Installation Steps:

  1. Cut your first panel with a few inches extra at top and bottom.
  2. Activate the paste by spraying the back or dipping the wallpaper in water. Soak evenly.
  3. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes to soften the paste (booking time).
  4. Apply the panel top to bottom, aligning with your vertical mark.
  5. Smooth gently with a wallpaper brush or sponge.
  6. Trim the excess with a blade. Repeat for each panel, matching the pattern at the seams.

Pro Tip: Avoid oversoaking or rushing booking time—it can cause slipping or bubbles.

Not Sure Which to Choose?

We always recommend testing a sample before committing. Each wallpaper type has a unique texture, application method, and finish that affects the final look.

Order your wallpaper samples to feel the difference between peel-and-stick polyester, traditional non-woven, and pre-pasted paper in real life.

FAQs: Wallpaper Installation Tips

Can I install wallpaper alone?

Peel and stick or pre-pasted can be installed solo, but traditional wallpaper often goes smoother with two people—especially when matching seams.

How do I remove wallpaper later?

Peel and stick removes cleanly by design. Pre-pasted and traditional wallpapers may require water, steam, and a scraper, especially after long-term use.

Do I need to prime the wall?

Yes—for traditional and pre-pasted wallpaper, priming improves adhesion and prevents damage to drywall during removal.

How do I keep wallpaper from bubbling?

Apply slowly, smooth as you go, and make sure walls are clean and dry before starting.

What if the pattern doesn’t line up?

Always plan for pattern match when ordering. Allow extra length per panel to adjust alignment during install.

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