How To Wallpaper Around A Window
If you're considering a new DIY project and plan on wallpapering a room, you'll probably find that papering over the flat walls is pretty straightforward. However, when it comes to applying wallpaper around windows, especially if they have a recess, this can be a little more difficult.
Wallpapering around a window frame doesn't need to be daunting and with our easy-to-follow instructions you'll be able to get the job done right first time, leaving you with a professional finish.
Essential Tools & Equipment
Step 1: Hang the First Strip of Paper
The easiest way of wallpapering a room with a window is to start around the window and work outwards. This way you can be sure you'll have enough paper overhanging which will fit into the window recess.
- Begin at the top right hand side and hang the first strip of wallpaper making sure it hangs in front of the window.
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Using either wallpaper scissors or a stanley knife, cut the wallpaper horizontally at the top of the bottom of the window.
Step 2: Wallpaper the Right Hand Side of the Window Recess
After cutting the first strip of wallpaper you should be left with a flap of paper that can be folded inwards and applied to the recessed part of the window.
- Fold the paper over the edge and smooth it all the way down the window recess taking care to remove bubbles or creases.
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Use your knife or scissors to score and trim away any excess paper.
Step 3: Hang and Second Strip of Paper
Take a second strip of paper and line this up against the first strip. As before, this will hang in front of your window.
- Hang the strip of paper from the top of the wall smoothing it down with your wallpaper brush.
- Carefully push the paper up against the recess. Using your brush to smooth the paper, going from front to back ensuring a snug fit into the window edges.
- Score along the edge and trim away the excess wallpaper.
Step 4: Repeat Step 3
Depending on the width of your window will determine how many times you should repeat step 3. Continue hanging fresh strips of wallpaper until you've reached the left hand side of your window.
Step 5: Wallpaper the Left Hand Side of the Window Recess
By now, you should have papered the right hand recess and all the way along the top of the window. To complete the job, you need to finish off with the left hand recess. To do this, simply repeat step 1.
If you want to wallpaper around a door, just follow the same process.
Step 6: Wallpaper Under the Window to Finish Off
Cut shorter strips of paper for underneath the window, but allow for around 400mm of overhang.
- Start from the either the left or right hand side and line the strip of paper ensuring any patterns match up.
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Apply the paper from just beneath the window ledge, going all the way down to the skirting board.
- Use your wallpaper brush to smooth away air bubbles and ensuring a flush finish into the edges.
- Continue hanging strips of paper until compelte.
Now that you've finished wallpapering around the window, you're free to paper the rest of the walls!
