Put Down the Paste: Why Wallpaper Installation Is a Job for the Pros
We love a good DIY moment, but when it comes to wallpaper, it’s time to call in the experts. Here’s why hiring a professional installer will save your walls, your time, and maybe even your marriage.
Let’s talk about wallpaper. Specifically, let’s discuss why you shouldn't be the one hanging it. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good DIY moment as much as the next girl. But when it comes to wallpaper (especially our textured beauties), you’ll want to sit this one out and leave it to the pros.
Trust me, your walls (and your sanity) will thank you!
Let me give it to you straight. I know wallpaper is a big investment and I know how you’ve played this out in your mind, picturing all of your party guests, jaws hitting the floor when they see your new stunning space. The last thing you want is for the install to ruin the grand reveal. But if you try to install it yourself, you’re asking for issues and a guaranteed argument with your spouse. Let me rattle off the reasons why hiring a professional is always going to be worth it. It’s either pay for an installer now, or a therapist later!
1. It’s a Big Investment. Don’t Risk Ruining It!
The majority of our wallpaper isn’t your run-of-the-mill peel-and-stick situation. (BTW, peel-and-stick is no walk in the park either.) It’s made from eco-friendly, textured materials like grasscloth and basketweave, which means it’s gorgeous, but also a bit high-maintenance. Installing it requires pattern matching and double cutting, two skills that even seasoned pros approach with care. If you need to Google it, you likely shouldn’t be installing it. If you misalign the pattern or cut incorrectly, you could be left with a wall that looks… well, off, not exactly the vibe we’re going for. Honestly, the last thing you want to do every time you walk into your new space is stare at the one seam that is mismatched and always catches your eye.
2. Your Time Is Valuable
Hanging wallpaper isn’t a quick weekend project. When done right, it takes time and precision. Do you really want to spend your Saturday knee-deep in adhesive and stress when you could be sipping a cocktail and watching someone else do the hard work? Exactly. Even for the professionals, the average room could take at least a couple of days.
3. A Pro Will Get the Math Right
Figuring out how much wallpaper to order is not as simple as measuring your walls and hoping for the best. A professional installer will measure your space, factor in pattern repeats, and tell you exactly how much paper you need, which saves you from the nightmare of ordering too little or too much. You can find all of this much-needed information on each of our product pages. Every sub-straight and each unique print is different, so be sure to check the fine print.
- Too little = project stalled mid-install, risking a mismatch if you have to reorder.
- Too much = wasted money you could have spent on your next cocktail party.
4. Peace of Mind Is Priceless
A professional installer will ensure your wallpaper is installed perfectly: smooth seams, aligned patterns, and no bubbling or creasing. And when it’s all done? You’ll be able to sit back, admire your stunning new walls, and toast to a job well done (that you didn’t have to lift a finger for).
Now that we’ve got you convinced, here’s your playbook:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the process seamless:
1. Pick Your Paper
Shop our House Party collection and pick the perfect wallpaper for your space. Garden botanicals? Classic stripes? Funky icons? We’ve got it all. Once you’ve picked “the one,” and you’ve ordered a sample in your favorite paper quality from us, you’re ready for the next step.
2. Find a Reputable Installer
Not all installers are created equal. Ask around for recommendations, check reviews, and (if possible) see their work in person. A trick I like to recommend if you have no where to start and are not sure who to ask in your area is to check out who your favorite local designers are tagging in their social media posts. Often, they’ll include the installer or other contractors who have earned that expert’s trust. If you’ve selected one of our textured qualities, ensure they have experience with grasscloth and textured wallpaper. Not everyone does. Confirm they’re comfortable with pattern matching and double cutting too. These are all great questions to ask when you first reach out to them.
3. Review the Space + Specs
Once you’ve locked down your installer, have them review your space and the specs of the wallpaper you’ve chosen. All the details (pattern repeat, roll size, etc.) are listed on each product’s page. Make sure they have everything they need. You’ll also want to confirm your space is ready for wallpaper. Smooth walls are key. If they need to be skim-coated, old wallpaper removed prior, etc., these are all things you’ll need to plan for in advance.
4. Confirm the Amount of Paper
Have your installer calculate exactly how much paper you’ll need. Most installers recommend ordering 20% more to account for pattern matching, trimming, and any mistakes during installation. Better to have a little extra than to run out mid-project! I’m not saying I know this from experience, but trust me on this one. Far too often we get customers reaching out asking for rush orders, we’ll do everything we can to accommodate but we can never confirm paper printed at different times will match perfectly.
5. Place Your Order
Since all of our wallpaper is custom printed, it takes 2–3 weeks from the time you place your order until it ships. Transit time is typically around 5-7 days, so please plan accordingly.
6. Book Your Installer
Once you have an estimated delivery date, book your installer. If you’re feeling cautious, you can wait until the paper is in your hands before scheduling. Either way, make sure you inspect the wallpaper for proper pattern and color before they start cutting.
Ensure that all rolls are from the same batch, that’s key for color consistency! Also, lay your paper rolls down flat vs on their sides with rolls upright to avoid edges getting bent.
Ensure that all rolls are from the same batch, that’s key for color consistency! Also, lay your paper rolls down flat vs on their sides with rolls upright to avoid edges getting bent.
7. Prep the Room
Before your installer arrives, set them up for success:
Clear the room: furniture, art, anything on the walls.
Wipe down walls and baseboards to remove dust and grime.
Remove outlet covers.
Pour yourself a glass of wine; you’re almost there.
Clear the room: furniture, art, anything on the walls.
Wipe down walls and baseboards to remove dust and grime.
Remove outlet covers.
Pour yourself a glass of wine; you’re almost there.
8. Let the Magic Happen
Your installer will handle the hard part; you just get to sit back (and stay out of the way), while watching the transformation unfold. Once it’s done, take a moment to soak it all in and plan your next party so all your friends can be amazed by your new space!
9. Show It Off!
Please, PLEASE send us pictures and videos when it’s done. Before-and-after photos are always amazing. We’re obsessed with seeing our designs in your beautiful spaces and are constantly amazed to see how you’ve all interpreted our designs.
Hiring a pro isn’t just about making your life easier; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring your wallpaper looks as good on the wall as it does in your dreams for decades to come. So go ahead, pick your paper, book your installer, and let the magic begin. Your walls (and your future self) will thank you.
If you have more questions or need additional tips. Always reach out. We love to hear from you.
Happy Wallpapering
Alexis