Wallpaper

Wallpapering Tools Buying Guide

Choosing your wallpapering tools

Ready to transform a room with some new wallpaper? Before you get started you’ll need the right tools for the job – they’ll make wallpapering an easier task and help you get the best results and smoothest finish.

What wallpapering tools do I need?

Preparation, application and finishing are the 3 main stages that come with wallpapering. Each part comes with tasks that need certain things in your toolbox. All you need is a bit of planning.

What are the different types of wallpapering tools?

For surface preparation you will need:

  • Wallpaper scorer and steamer:  A rotary scorer will make light work of lifting old wallpaper off the wall. If however your paper is difficult to remove then you will need to use a steam stripper.
  • Stripping knife: To remove old wallpaper after scoring and steaming, you will need a stripping knife to remove the paper.
  • Filling knife: Get any holes and cracks filled in easily by using this knife along with the appropriate filler suitable for your wall type.
  • Abrasive sandpaper: Smoothing down any imperfections on your wall surface before hanging your paper will ensure you receive perfect end results.
  • SealerSize the wall with appropriate sealer to ensure that your wallpaper will adhere to the wall correctly.
  • Plumb line or levelMake sure you’re going to get an accurate finish when wallpapering by using a plumb line to get the perfect vertical line, or alternatively, you can use a level or ruler with a pencil to mark the wall.
  • Tape measureKnow where to cut your wallpaper with the help of a ruler or tape measure.

For wallpaper preparation you will need:

  • Wallpaper tableGive yourself somewhere to cut your wallpaper with a purpose-built worktop. This is a neat solution that keeps things clean and tidy when measuring, cutting and pasting.
  • Paper-hanging scissorsThese will make the job of cutting your sheets to size easy. Get the perfect finish and easily trim your wallpaper with the long, sharp blade.
  • Paste brushWhile you can use a normal paintbrush, the thicker wedge of bristles from a specialised brush will help apply the paste smoothly and more accurately to walls or the back of paper.

For finishing you will need:

  • Paper-hanging brushGet rid of bubbles and excess paste with this smoothing tool.
  • Steam rollerSort out the seams between the sheets of wallpaper with a roller. However, make sure you don’t use this on embossed or fragile papers.

Wallpapering is a classic DIY job, and one that isn’t too difficult when you’ve got the right tools and had the right amount of preparation. So make sure you’re ready from the beginning with everything you need to measure up, sketch out, cut, paste and smooth for a finished look that you can be proud of.



Homebase

Homebase

Writer and expert