How to Install Your Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Step 1: Prepare the Wall

Begin by giving your wall the respect it deserves: it should be clean, dry, and absolutely smooth — the perfect foundation for your removable wallpaper. 

• If your wall has been freshly painted, allow it ample time to cure. 
• Let your wallpaper rolls rest in the room for 24 hours so they can acclimate and lie perfectly flat.

This thoughtful preparation ensures a seamless, long-lasting installation.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools & Materials 

Before you start, assemble these essentials:

• A sharp utility knife (with extra blades)
• Measuring tape and a reliable level
• Straight-edge or ruler, and a pencil
• Scissors
• Smoothing tool (or a squeegee)
• A sturdy ladder (for high walls)
• Your peel-and-stick wallpaper rolls

Having your workspace organized makes for a smoother and more enjoyable DIY wallpaper installation.

Step 3: Measure, Cut & Align

• Measure the height of the wall from ceiling to baseboard (or top of any wall treatment). 
• Cut your first strip, leaving a 3–4-inch allowance at both top and bottom for final trimming.
• Ensure pattern matching across strips: if your design has a repeat, align one roll’s motif perfectly with the next. Precision here equals elegance in the finished result.

Step 4: Establish Your Starting Line

• Using a level, draw a straight vertical guideline from near the ceiling down to the floor, a few inches away from the corner or edge. 
• This will act as your anchor line — the first strip must begin perfectly aligned so the entire installation remains upright across the wall.

Step 5. First Strip: Positioning & Adhesion

• Peel back the top portion of the backing (approximately 12–24 inches)
• Position the top of your wallpaper strip so it's aligned with the ceiling, slightly overlapping (by about an inch or so). This will be trimmed off later. 
• Use the guidelines you drew in Step 4 as your reference.
• At this stage, take your time: align carefully, allow the paper to “hang” gently, then gradually secure it from top to bottom.

Step 6: Smooth, Adhere & Eliminate Imperfections

• Using your hands and smoothing tool in tandem, press the wallpaper onto the wall, moving downward. 
• Remove all air bubbles and creases until the surface is as flat and flawless as a gallery canvas.
• If working with a partner, have one person hold the roll while the other smooths; collaboration ensures precision.

Step 7: Trim the Edges

• Use your straightedge and utility knife to trim excess at the ceiling, corners, and baseboard. 
• A sharp, fresh blade ensures precision and a crisp, clean cut.

Step 8: Apply the Remaining Strips

• Repeat the process for each new strip: peel the backing, align adjacent to the prior strip (sometimes with a slight overlap of 1/16 inch if required by pattern), smooth carefully, and trim the edges.
• Maintain consistent pressure and attention to pattern alignment to sustain that refined, uninterrupted aesthetic.

Step 9: Repositioning & Removal (If Needed)

• To reposition or remove a section, gently lift from the top corner downward.
• Avoid letting adhesive surfaces fold back onto themselves, as this can compromise the finish.

Step 10: Care & Maintenance

• To keep your wallpaper looking its best, wipe gently with a soft cloth or sponge using mild soap and water.
• Never scrub vigorously and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Your walls deserve care as refined as their design.