Wallpaper isn’t just for walls anymore! Many adventurous homeowners are now turning their attention upward, using wallpaper to add a touch of elegance or a splash of fun to their ceilings.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools to ensure a smooth wallpapering process:
- Wallpaper and wallpaper paste
- Pasting and smoothing brushes
- Seam roller
- Pasting table
- Bucket, sponge, and damp cloth
- Sharp scissors and tape measure
- Tacks, string, and pencil (or chalkline)
- Dust sheets and scaffolding setup (trestles or step ladders with scaffolding boards)
Step-by-Step Guide to Wallpapering Your Ceiling
- Preparation is Key
Start by laying down dust sheets and setting up a stable platform using scaffolding boards across two trestles or ladders. For a perfect wallpaper application, fill any holes and cracks in your ceiling, use a sealant for stains, and thoroughly clean the surface. Applying a diluted wallpaper paste, known as size, will enhance the wallpaper’s adhesion. Allow the ceiling to dry completely after sizing. - Marking Your Guidelines
Start by positioning yourself at the side of the room that is nearest to a window and proceed to move in the opposite direction. In case the room has a irregular shape, determine the longest straight section for the first strip of wallpaper. Use tacks and a taut string (or a chalkline) to create a straight guideline on the ceiling, ensuring a slight extension of the wallpaper onto the wall to achieve a smooth and seamless finish. - Hanging the Wallpaper
Measure and cut the wallpaper, allowing extra at each end. Fold the paper into concertina folds for easier handling. Whether you’re working solo with a cardboard tube for support or with a partner’s help, start by aligning the wallpaper with your guideline. Use a brush to smooth the wallpaper from the centre outwards as you unfold each section, ensuring there are no bubbles or misalignments. - Navigating Obstacles
When you encounter a ceiling light or rose, first ensure that the electricity is safely turned off. Hang the wallpaper as normal, but when you reach a fixture, make precise cuts from the centre outwards to accommodate it. Continue hanging the wallpaper, then trim around the fixture for a neat finish. - Choosing the Right Wallpaper Type
For beginners, paste-the-wall wallpapers are highly recommended as they are simpler to handle. Apply paste to the ceiling slightly wider than the width of the wallpaper to facilitate easy overlapping of subsequent strips. Alternatively, peel-and-stick wallpapers are a great choice for easy application and adjustment.
Starting Your Wallpapering Journey
Always start hanging your wallpaper from the window side to minimise shadows caused by natural light. If you plan to wallpaper your walls as well, tackle the ceiling first for a cleaner and more professional overall appearance.
Why Consider Wallpapering Your Ceiling?
Wallpapering the ceiling not only enhances the aesthetics but also conceals flaws, provides a seamless surface for painting, and brings a distinctive design aspect to any space.
If you need further assistance, consider reaching out to the experts at Martyn Clegg Painters and Decorators in Burnley, who can ensure the job is done correctly the first time thanks to their knowledge and expertise.