How to Hang Wallpaper in a Nursery: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Quick Answer

To hang wallpaper in a nursery, start by preparing the wall and gathering the right tools. Measure and cut strips, apply adhesive (or use peel-and-stick), and smooth each panel carefully. Use a plumb line to keep patterns straight and trim excess with a sharp knife. Always test a sample first to ensure the design and colors work in your space.

Decorating a nursery is an exciting project, and wallpaper can add a playful or calming touch that paint alone can't match. Whether you're drawn to bold stripes, whimsical animals, or soft florals, hanging wallpaper yourself is a rewarding DIY that saves money and gives you total control over the result.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire process, from gathering the right tools to smoothing out the final panel. We'll also share common mistakes to avoid and tips for working with nursery-safe materials. By the end, you'll have a beautiful, safe backdrop for your little one's room.

Gather Your Wallpaper Hanging Tools

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. Essential tools include a tape measure, a level or plumb line, a pencil, a sharp utility knife, a smoothing tool or plastic smoother, a sponge or damp cloth, and a straight edge. If you're using traditional wallpaper, you'll also need a paste applicator and a seam roller.

For peel-and-stick wallpaper, you'll skip the paste but still need a smoothing tool and a knife for trimming. Having all tools ready before you begin prevents interruptions and keeps the adhesive from drying out prematurely.

• Use a plumb line or level to mark a vertical reference line on the wall.
• Keep a damp sponge handy to wipe off any adhesive that seeps out.

Prepare the Nursery Wall

The key to a smooth wallpaper installation is a clean, smooth, and dry wall. Fill any holes or cracks with spackle, sand them flush, and wipe away dust. If the wall is painted, ensure it's a low-gloss or satin finish so the wallpaper adheres well. If you're working with new drywall, apply a primer first to prevent the wallpaper from sticking too permanently.

Also, consider the room's environment. A nursery may have higher humidity from a humidifier, so ensure the room is well-ventilated during and after installation to prevent mold or peeling.

• Remove outlet covers and switch plates to make trimming easier.
• Check for any existing wallpaper or texture that needs to be removed or smoothed.

Measure and Cut Your Wallpaper Strips

Measure the height of your wall and add a few inches for trimming. Cut your wallpaper strips accordingly, matching the pattern if your design requires it. For patterns like the 'Dipped Stripe Wallpaper', you'll want to ensure the stripes align correctly across panels.

Lay the strips on a clean, flat surface and number them on the back to keep track of order. This is especially helpful with large patterns or when working with multiple rolls.

• Always cut strips slightly longer than needed to allow for adjustments.
• Use a straight edge and sharp knife for clean, straight cuts.

Apply Adhesive or Prepare Peel-and-Stick

If you're using traditional wallpaper, apply paste evenly to the back of the strip using a paste applicator or brush. Fold the strip paste-side in (booking) and let it sit for the recommended time to activate the adhesive. For peel-and-stick wallpaper, simply peel off the backing paper and position the strip on the wall.

Nestig's wallpapers, like the 'Daydream Wallpaper', are non-woven and PVC-free, making them breathable and easy to work with. They are printed with Greenguard Gold-certified inks, so they're safe for your baby's room.

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for booking time.
• For peel-and-stick, work slowly to avoid air bubbles.

Hang the First Strip

Starting at a corner or a plumb line, position your first strip. Press it gently at the top and smooth downward with a smoothing tool, working from the center out to push out air bubbles. Use a damp sponge to wipe off any adhesive that seeps out at the edges.

For patterns, ensure the design is straight. Use a level to check vertical alignment before smoothing fully. If you're working with a bold pattern like 'Construction Crew Wallpaper', a slight misalignment will be very noticeable.

• Use a seam roller to press down edges firmly.
• Don't stretch the wallpaper; it can cause pattern distortion.

Trim Excess and Continue

Once the strip is in place, use a straight edge and sharp knife to trim the excess at the top and bottom. Cut against the straight edge for a clean line. Wipe away any excess adhesive immediately.

Continue hanging the next strips, matching the pattern carefully. Overlap edges slightly if needed, then use a seam roller to flatten the seams. For peel-and-stick, you can overlap and trim for a perfect fit.

• Always use a fresh blade for clean cuts.
• Check each seam for gaps or overlaps before moving on.

Smooth Out Bubbles and Wrinkles

If you encounter air bubbles, use a smoothing tool to push them toward the nearest edge. For stubborn bubbles, you can prick them with a pin and smooth out the air. Wrinkles can be smoothed out by lifting the wallpaper gently and repositioning.

For peel-and-stick wallpaper, you can lift and reapply if you make a mistake. Traditional wallpaper is less forgiving, so work carefully.

• Work from the center out to avoid trapping air.
• Use a damp cloth to smooth and clean the surface.

Final Checks and Cleanup

After all strips are hung, inspect the wall for any bubbles, seams, or adhesive residue. Wipe down the entire wall with a damp sponge to remove any leftover paste. Allow the wallpaper to dry completely before moving furniture back in.

If you're using a sample first, like the 'Safari Wallpaper Sample', you can test the pattern and colors before committing to a full roll. This is a smart step to avoid costly mistakes.

• Check seams under different lighting conditions.
• Keep leftover wallpaper for future repairs.

Step-by-Step Wallpaper Installation

1. Prepare the wall: Clean, smooth, and prime the wall. Fill holes and sand rough spots. A smooth wall ensures better adhesion and a professional finish.
2. Gather tools: Have all tools ready: tape measure, level, knife, smoothing tool, sponge, and adhesive if needed. Being prepared prevents interruptions and mistakes.
3. Measure and cut strips: Measure wall height, add a few inches, and cut strips with pattern matching. Accurate cuts save time and material.
4. Apply adhesive or peel backing: Apply paste evenly or peel off backing for peel-and-stick. Follow manufacturer instructions for best results.
5. Hang the first strip: Align with plumb line, smooth from center out, and trim excess. A straight first strip sets the tone for the entire wall.
6. Continue with subsequent strips: Match patterns and overlap edges slightly, then roll seams. Consistent pattern matching creates a seamless look.
7. Smooth out bubbles and wrinkles: Use a smoothing tool to push air out, or prick and smooth stubborn bubbles. A smooth surface is key to a professional finish.

Nestig Wallpaper Options

• Dipped Stripe Wallpaper: A twist on two-tone stripes, for double the fun. Printed on non-toxic, PVC-free paper with Greenguard Gold-certified inks. This playful pattern adds visual interest while being safe for your baby's room. The non-toxic, PVC-free material ensures a healthier nursery environment.
• Daydream Wallpaper: Transform your space with our traditional, non-woven wallpaper, printed on non-toxic, pvc-free paper with Greenguard Gold certified inks. Kites and paper planes soar among leafy branches in this delightful design. The non-woven material is breathable and easy to hang, making DIY installation simpler. The whimsical design is perfect for a dreamy nursery.
• Safari Wallpaper Sample: Transform your space with our traditional, non-woven wallpaper, printed on non-toxic paper with Greenguard Gold certified inks. Our wallpaper sample includes a 'real sized' sample as well as a sample that will show how the print will look on a full wall. Before committing to a full roll, order a sample to see the colors and scale in your actual nursery. This helps avoid costly mismatches.

Hanging wallpaper in a nursery is a manageable DIY project when you follow the right steps. With careful preparation, the right tools, and a bit of patience, you can create a beautiful, personalized space for your little one. Remember to choose non-toxic, Greenguard Gold-certified wallpapers like those from Nestig for a safe and stylish finish.