The Right Tools for Wallpapering Around Windows – Written By Double Glazing Edinburgh Professionals
There are a few essential tools you’ll need to gather before you start this job.
- Your chosen wallpaper
- Appropriate paste for your wallpaper
- Sharp, wallpaper scissors or utility knife
- Wallpaper brush
- Measuring tape and pencil
- Clean, damp cloth
- Spirit level
Preparing to Wallpaper Around Windows
Good preparation makes all the difference when wallpapering around a window.
Make sure to measure the width of your window and the surrounding wall areas. This helps you work out exactly how many strips of wallpaper you’ll need and where they should go.
It is smart to measure from the centre of the window outwards to ensure the pattern aligns nicely on both sides.
However, if your room has multiple windows, starting from the centre of the main wall and working your way outwards typically gives the most professional results. This maintains continuity throughout your space.
Once measured, make sure your wall surface is clean, dry, and smooth. This helps the wallpaper stick and stops imperfections from holes.
The area surrounding the window frame can be particularly prone to wear and tear, so make sure to fill in any holes with plaster beforehand. Always allow any fillers to dry completely before moving forward.
Step-by-Step Guide to Wallpapering Around a Window
1. Position Your First Strip
When tackling a window, it’s usually best to hang your first strip at the side of the window.
Use a spirit level to check it’s perfectly vertical.
Apply wallpaper paste evenly across the back of your paper (unless you’re using pre-pasted wallpaper), then position it on the wall. Remove any excess paste with a damp cloth for a clean finish.
Leave about 5cm of overlap at the top and bottom that you can trim away later for a perfect edge.
2. Approaching the Window Frame
As you hang strips of wallpaper that will meet the window frame, apply paste to the entire strip.
Position the paper on the wall so it overlaps the window frame by about 2-3cm.
Smooth the paper carefully from the centre outwards, using your wallpaper brush to remove any air bubbles as you go.
3. Creating Relief Cuts
When your wallpaper meets the window frame, you’ll need to make diagonal cuts from the edge of the paper to the corner of the frame.
This creates small flaps of paper that you can fold and position properly around the window recess. Make these cuts with a steady hand to avoid tearing the paper beyond the window edge.
4. Working Inside the Window Recess
The window recess can be a more difficult area to work with. It is recommended to measure and cut pieces to fit precisely.
Apply these separately after you’ve dealt with the main wall.
When you wallpaper around the window, you’ll have a flap that extends into the recess. Take your time to smooth this paper carefully into the recess, always working from the front of the window inward for the best results.
5. Trimming Excess Paper
Once your wallpaper is positioned correctly, trim any excess paper along the window frame using your scissors or a sharp utility knife. These create a clean edge where the wallpaper meets the window frame.
6. Dealing with the Top and Bottom of the Window
The window sill area needs special attention, as it’s often at eye level.
Because of this, it’s important to achieve a perfectly clean finish. We recommend tackling the window sills last, once you’re comfortable with the wallpapering technique.
Fortunately, both the top and bottom sections of the window use the same approach.
Allow the wallpaper to overlap the window frame, make small relief cuts at the corners, and gently smooth the paper into position. Finally, trim away any excess for a neat and professional result.
Advanced Techniques for Perfect Results
Pattern Matching Around Windows
Patterned wallpapers can be slightly more difficult to fit. However, don’t let that deter you from picking the pattern of your dreams.
Careful planning will ensure that it matches correctly around the window.
Measure from a key pattern point to the window and use this measurement when cutting subsequent strips.
Make sure to pay close attention when applying the wallpaper to ensure visual continuity.
Dealing with Awkward Window Shapes
For unusual window shapes and architraves, it is a good idea to create a template using plain paper before cutting your wallpaper. This way you can trace the exact contours before cutting, allowing precision in even the trickiest of shapes.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve completed wallpapering around the window, double check for any paste residue on the window frame or glass. Clean these spots immediately with a damp cloth to prevent staining.
It is also important to let the wallpaper dry completely before hanging curtains or blinds. This allows everything to set properly, preventing damage to the new paper. If your window has condensation, it may be a sign your room is too humid. In this case, make sure to allow your wallpaper extra time to dry.
Make sure to clean your window frame too, to fully benefit the new room.
For Double Glazing Needs – Contact The Advanced Group Today
Looking to improve your home in more ways than just new wallpaper?
While we may not be able to hang your wallpaper for you, our team at The Advanced Group are experts in fitting new double-glazed windows and doors.
If you are looking for new, stylish, energy-efficient, and noise reduction windows or doors to elevate your living environment, contact our professional team today.
For free, friendly advice or a free, no obligation quote, call our Edinburgh office on 0131 370 0444.
