Preparation (the messy bit)
How to Strip Wallpaper and Prepare Your Walls for Painting or Wallpapering
If you’re looking to refresh your space, removing old wallpaper and properly preparing your walls is essential for a smooth, professional finish. Follow these steps to ensure your walls are ready for painting or wallpapering.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before you start, make sure you have:
✔ A wallpaper stripper or steamer (optional but helpful)
✔ A wallpaper scraper or putty knife
✔ A bucket of warm water and sponge
✔ A scoring tool (for stubborn wallpaper)
✔ A wall filler and sanding block
✔ A dust sheet to protect floors
Step 2: Protect Your Space
Move furniture away from the walls and cover floors with a dust sheet to protect them from water, paste, and debris. Switch off electricity and remove any outlet covers or light switch plates.
Step 3: Loosen the Wallpaper
Start by peeling off the top layer if it's a two-layer wallpaper.
If the paper doesn’t come off easily, use a scoring tool to make small holes in the surface—this helps moisture soak in.
Soak the wallpaper using a sponge and warm water or a wallpaper stripping solution. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to loosen the glue.
Step 4: Remove the Wallpaper
Use a scraper to gently lift the wallpaper from the wall. Start from the edges and work your way in.
If you have a steam wallpaper stripper, hold it against the wall for a few seconds to loosen the adhesive before scraping.
Repeat the soaking and scraping process until all wallpaper is removed.
Step 5: Clean the Walls
Use warm water and a sponge to remove leftover glue and residue.
A mild detergent can help dissolve any stubborn adhesive.
Let the walls dry completely before moving to the next step.
Step 6: Repair and Smooth the Surface
Fill any holes or cracks with a good-quality wall filler and let it dry.
Sand down rough areas to create a smooth, even surface.
Wipe down the walls with a damp cloth to remove dust from sanding.
Step 7: Prime the Walls (for Painting or Wallpapering)
For painting: Apply a coat of primer to help the paint adhere better and prevent patchiness.
For wallpapering: Use a wall size or wallpaper primer to help the new wallpaper stick evenly.
Now You're Ready!
Your walls are now prepped and ready for fresh paint or a new wallpaper design. If you need expert advice or professional help, feel free to get in touch—we’re always happy to assist!
The Redecorating Process: Step by Step Guide
Painting Process
Once your walls are stripped and prepared, it’s time to start decorating! Whether you’re painting or wallpapering, following the right process ensures a smooth, professional finish.
Step 1: Choose Your Paint & Tools
✔ High-quality emulsion paint for walls and ceilings
✔ Gloss, satin, or eggshell for woodwork (doors, skirting boards, etc.)
✔ Paint rollers, brushes, and a paint tray
✔ Painter’s tape for edges
✔ Dust sheets to protect floors and furniture
Step 2: Apply Painter’s Tape & Protect Surfaces
If you dont have a steady hand, use painter’s tape to mask off edges, light switches, and skirting boards.
Cover floors and furniture with dust sheets.
Step 3: Apply Primer (If Needed)
If painting over fresh plaster, dark colors, or stains, apply a primer or undercoat first.
Let it dry completely before moving on.
Step 4: Cut in the Edges
Use a small brush to carefully paint around edges, corners, and skirting boards before using a roller.
This helps create a sharp, professional look.
Step 5: Roll the Paint
Load your roller evenly and start painting in a "W" or "M" motion for smooth, even coverage.
Apply two coats for the best results, allowing the first coat to dry before applying the second. (Silk may require additional coats)
Step 6: Paint the Woodwork
Once walls are dry, paint skirting boards, doors, and window frames using a small brush or roller for an even finish. We have a technique for a better finish called laying off. As you apply the paint, gently with very light pressure brush in the direction of the wood grain, this will bring the bristles of the brush tighter giving the finish a smoother, glassy look. Sand and repeat if required.
Step 7: Remove Tape & Clean Up
Carefully remove painter’s tape before the paint is fully dry to prevent peeling.
Clean brushes and rollers immediately to keep them in good condition.
Wallpapering Process
Step 1: Choose Your Wallpaper & Tools
✔ Wallpaper rolls (measure carefully to ensure you buy enough)
✔ Wallpaper paste and a paste brush or roller
✔ A sharp knife or scissors for trimming
✔ A smoothing brush or roller
✔ A spirit level for straight application
Step 2: Mark a Straight Line on the Wall
Use a spirit level and pencil to draw a straight vertical guide.
This ensures your first wallpaper strip goes on perfectly straight.
Step 3: Apply the Wallpaper Paste
For paste-the-wall wallpaper, apply the adhesive directly to the wall.
For traditional wallpaper, spread the paste evenly onto the back of the paper and let it soak for the recommended time.
Step 4: Hang the First Strip
Align the first strip with your guide line and smooth it from top to bottom using a wallpaper brush.
Use a seam roller to press down the edges.
Step 5: Trim Excess & Continue
Use a sharp knife to trim excess wallpaper at the top and bottom.
Repeat the process, ensuring the patterns match at the seams.
Step 6: Wipe Off Excess Paste
Use a damp sponge to remove any paste before it dries.
Step 7: Let It Dry & Enjoy!
Avoid opening windows or exposing the wallpaper to drafts while it dries.
Once dry, you can add finishing touches like artwork or furniture.
Final Thoughts
Whether painting or wallpapering, taking the time to prep and follow each step carefully ensures a flawless finish. If you’d like professional help, get in touch with Daniel’s Decorating for expert services in Leyland and beyond!