Whether you’re pasting the wall or the wallpaper, not knowing how to mix paste properly or how much you’ll need can leave you in a sticky situation. Here is our guide to wallpaper paste.
If you’ve picked out your new favourite wallpaper and followed the steps to remove your existing wallpaper, it’s time to get your makeover started.
So, whether you’re a first-time DIYer or even a seasoned professional, follow our guide to learn everything you need to know about wallpaper paste, from how much you need to how to mix it and dispose of it after you’ve finished. Our guide to wallpaper paste will help you.
Table of Contents
- How much wallpaper paste do I need?
- How to mix wallpaper paste
- How to apply the paste to wallpaper
- How to apply the paste to the wall
- How long does wallpaper paste take to dry?
- What is wallpaper paste made from
- How to dispose of wallpaper paste
- How to get wallpaper paste off the wall?
How much wallpaper paste do I need?
When mixing wallpaper, it needs to have a perfect consistency. If it is too thin, the paste will run down the wall and is unlikely to be strong enough to stick the wallpaper to the wall. If it is too thick, you may get lumps which will show underneath your freshly applied wallpaper.
For most pastes, mix one sachet to seven parts water, which will cover approximately eight to ten rolls of wallpaper. For heavier wallpaper, you’ll need a thicker paste to stop the paper from sliding down the wall.
After measuring your room and figuring out how many rolls you will need, follow the table below to determine how much paste you will need.
| WALLPAPER TYPE | LITRES OF COLD WATER | APPROXIMATE COVERAGE |
| Normal wallpapers and lining paper | 7 | 8-10 rolls |
| Vinyl wallpapers | 5.5 | 6-8 rolls |
| Textured vinyl wallpapers | 4.5 | 3-5 rolls |
| Embossed Wallpapers | 4.5 | 2-4 rolls |
| Heavy embossed wallpapers | 4 | 1-3 rolls |
How to mix wallpaper paste
The wallpaper paste should look smooth. Never use lumpy wallpaper paste, as the bumps will show underneath your wallpaper. Adding paste to the wallpaper too quickly can cause lumps, so take it slow for the best results. Follow our guide to wallpaper paste.
To make wallpaper paste, follow these steps:
Step 1 – Check the packaging of your adhesive to see how much water you need, and fill a bucket with the right amount of clean, cold water.
Step 2 – Stir the water with a mixing stick, slowly pour in the adhesive sachet, and stir to mix.
Step 3 – Stir the mixture vigorously for 30 seconds to a minute as the mixture starts thickening, changing direction occasionally.
Step 4 – Leave the mixture to stand for a few minutes and then stir again.
How long does wallpaper paste last once mixed?
Once mixed, wallpaper paste will last 48 hours if you cover your mix with cling film or a plastic bag to form an airtight seal. Give the paste a good stir before starting again.
Just be sure you wash your brush or roller or wrap it up with cling film to stop the paste from hardening.
How to apply the paste to the wallpaper
If you use paste-the-wallpaper options, you will need a pasting table or something similar to paste your wallpaper easily.
Step 1 – Cut your wallpaper to size and lay it over a pasting table.
Step 2 – Apply a generous amount of paste and coat the wallpaper, working from the centre outwards. Make sure that all the edges are covered so there is no peeling, but be careful not to get any paste on the display side of the wallpaper as it may damage the surface.
Step 3 – Check the wallpaper’s soak time which can be found on the label. When the paste is applied to wallpaper, it expands, so it must be left to expand to its maximum width before it is hung on the wall. If the wallpaper is not left to soak, it will continue to expand on the wall, causing bubbles and creases.
Step 4 – Hang your wallpaper on the wall, taking care not to rip the wet paper and smooth it down.
How to apply the paste to the wall
Using paste-the-wall wallpaper is ideal for quickly redecorating as it is less time-consuming. You don’t need to wait for the paste to soak into the paper, and there is much less risk of the wallpaper ripping as you hang it up.
Step 1 – Clean the wall using a microfibre cloth to remove dust or dirt. Ensure the wall is smooth and any residual paste is removed.
Step 2 – Use a brush to add the paste to a section of the wall. Be sure to paste beyond where the edge of the drop of wallpaper will be placed.
Step 3 – Use a roller to even out the layer of paste.
Step 4 – Hang your drop of wallpaper on the wall over the pre-pasted section and smooth it down.
Follow our full guide on how to hang wallpaper for more tips and tricks.
How long does wallpaper paste take to dry?
Wallpaper paste usually dries in 24-48 hours. However, it can depend on the condition of the room.
Once the wallpaper has been hung, it can take up to two weeks before the paste is completely dry and set, so it is best to leave your wallpaper for as long as possible before adding any borders.
What is wallpaper paste made of?
Wallpaper paste contains various elements, including starch, water and cellulose. When mixed, the ingredients create a strong adhesive to hold the wallpaper in place.
Many solvents are not considered a health or environmental hazard and can be disposed of with regular waste. However, it’s always best to check the ingredients in your chosen paste and your local waste regulations to ensure you dispose of it safely.
How to dispose of wallpaper paste
If you are wondering what to do with leftover wallpaper paste, it’s actually a much simpler process than you might realise. To dispose of wallpaper paste, wait for it to completely harden, then throw it in the bin with your usual household rubbish.
As wallpaper paste is classed as non-hazardous, it can be disposed of without causing harm to the environment.
How to get wallpaper paste off wallpaper?
If you get wallpaper paste on your walls, wiping it off as quickly as possible before it dries and hardens is important.
To remove wallpaper paste:
Step 1 – Use a paper towel or an absorbent cloth to soak up the paste by dabbing carefully – not rubbing.
Step 2 – Use a damp cloth to soak up and remove any leftover paste.
Time to redecorate with Wallpaper Shop
Now you’ve learnt everything you need to know about wallpaper paste; it’s time to start redecorating.
Explore our selection of wallpaper accessories with all-purpose wallpaper adhesive and paste the wall adhesive as well as paste brushes, hanging brushes and seam rollers and find everything you need to complete your project.