Ready to revamp your space without breaking the bank? You’ve come to the right place. Dive into our budget-friendly tips for DIY wallpaper projects and discover how easy it is to pick the perfect wallpaper mural that reflects your unique style. We’ll guide you through the essential steps to prepare your walls for a seamless application and provide a simple, step-by-step guide to installing custom wallpaper murals. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a wallpaper decor newbie, we’re here to make your project fun and hassle-free. Get ready to transform your home, one wall at a time!

Budget-Friendly Tips for DIY Wallpaper Projects

Choose Your Wallpaper Wisely

When it comes to budget-friendly wallpaper decor, the first step is choosing the right material. Opt for paste-the-wall wallpapers that are not only easy to install but also easy on your wallet. These use minimal amounts of paste that you put straight onto your wall and then follow with the wallpaper.

This is compared to self-adhesive wallpapers, which are marketed as easy but believe us when we say, they’re not. Not only can these materials stretch, you more than likely will end up needing a very niche painter decorator to apply them. It usually takes at least two people to put it up and you need less than ordinary tools like a heat gun if it sticks where you don’t want it to stick! Plus they will more than likely pull the paint off your walls. All this considered, there may be a lot of hidden costs stuck in the self-adhesive wallpaper.

Measure Twice, Wallpaper Once

Before diving into your project, take the time to measure your walls accurately. Wasting wallpaper due to incorrect measurements can quickly eat into your budget. Use a tape measure to determine the height and width of each wall you plan to cover. Wallpaper decor, especially murals usually come printed with excess around the edges that you trim off, this is just to give you wiggle room. The excess is called print bleed and it’s only a very small amount, usually 25-50mm extra on all sides, rather than a whole extra roll. This is where made-to-measure wallpaper comes in handy, because there will be very little waste!

Embrace Pattern Play

If you’re looking to add visual interest to your space without spending a fortune, consider using wallpaper strategically. Opt for a statement wall rather than covering an entire room. This technique not only saves on material costs but also allows you to showcase your favourite wallpaper design as a focal point in the room. Choose a bold pattern, colour or design that reflects your personality and watch your space come to life!

DIY Tools of the Trade

You don’t need a fancy toolkit to tackle a DIY wallpaper project. A few basic tools will suffice: a tape measure for accurate measurements, a pencil for marking, a straightedge or ruler for cutting straight lines, and a utility knife for precise trimming. Whatever wallpaper material you opt for, a wallpaper smoother or squeegee can help ensure a smooth, bubble-free application.

Seek Out Sales and Discounts

Keep an eye out for sales and discounts on wallpaper decor. Many home improvement stores and online retailers offer seasonal promotions or clearance sales where you can score great deals on quality wallpaper. Sign up for newsletters or follow your favourite retailers on social media to stay informed about upcoming sales events.

Prep Like a Pro

Proper preparation is key to a successful wallpaper installation. Start by cleaning your walls thoroughly to remove any dust, grease, or imperfections that could affect adhesion. Fill in any holes or cracks with spackle and sand them smooth once dry. Smooth walls ensure a flawless finish and prolong the lifespan of your wallpaper decor.

Take Your Time

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither should your wallpaper project be rushed. Take your time during each step of the installation process to ensure a professional-looking finish. Smooth out bubbles as you go and double-check alignment to avoid costly mistakes. Patience pays off when it comes to DIY projects, and your beautifully decorated walls will be worth the effort.

How to Pick Your Perfect Wallpaper Mural

Choosing the right wallpaper mural can be an exciting yet daunting task. With so many options out there, how do you find the one that suits your style and space perfectly? Fear not! We can help you navigate through the world of wallpaper decor and find your ideal match.

Reflect Your Personality

When selecting a wallpaper mural, think about what reflects your personality best. Are you drawn to bold patterns and vibrant colours, or do you prefer subtle textures and serene landscapes? Your wallpaper should speak to you and complement your overall decor style. Think about the mood you want to create in the room – whether it’s cosy and inviting or bold and energising.

Consider the Room’s Purpose

The function of the room plays a crucial role in choosing the right wallpaper mural. For instance, a lively and playful mural might be perfect for a children’s playroom or bedroom, while a more sophisticated design could elevate a living room or dining area. Consider how the wallpaper will interact with the room’s furnishings and lighting to create a harmonious atmosphere.

Size and Scale Matter

Before you fall in love with a wallpaper mural, consider the size and scale of your space. A large-scale mural might overwhelm a small room, whereas a smaller pattern could get lost in a spacious area. Measure your walls carefully and visualise how the mural will look once installed. We can customise our wallpapers, allowing you to adjust the scale to fit your specific wall dimensions perfectly.

Coordinate Colours and Patterns

Harmony is key when it comes to coordinating colours and patterns with your existing decor. Choose a wallpaper mural that complements the colours of your furniture, flooring, and accessories. If you’re unsure about which colours to pick, look for wallpapers that feature shades already present in your room’s palette. And in terms of patterns, try to stick to a cohesive theme to avoid a clash of designs (unless you’re a maximalist ;)).

Test Samples and Visualise

Before committing to a full-size wallpaper mural, order samples to see how the colours and textures look in your space. Lighting can affect how colours appear, so observe the samples during different times of the day. Use the samples to visualise how the mural will enhance your room’s ambiance and whether it aligns with your vision for the space. We offer a free service to make a mockup of the wall mural in your space too!

Seek Inspiration

Feeling stuck? Browse through interior design magazines, Pinterest boards, or home decor blogs for inspiration. Take note of how others have used wallpaper murals to transform their spaces. You might discover new ideas or colour schemes that resonate with your style. Don’t hesitate to mix and match elements from different sources to create a unique look that’s all your own.

How to Prepare Your Walls for Seamless Application

So, you’ve picked out the perfect wallpaper decor to jazz up your space – now it’s time to prep those walls for a flawless application! Follow these simple steps to ensure your walls are smooth, clean, and ready to showcase your new wallpaper in all its glory.

Remove Old Wallpaper (If Necessary)

If your walls are currently sporting old wallpaper, it’s best to remove it before applying new wallpaper decor. Use a wallpaper scraper or steamer to loosen the old wallpaper and peel it off carefully. Once removed, clean the walls thoroughly to remove any adhesive residue. This extra step ensures a clean slate for your new wallpaper to shine.

Clean Like a Pro

Before you even think about wallpapering, give your walls a thorough cleaning. Dust, dirt, and grease can hinder the adhesive, so grab a sponge or cloth and some mild detergent to wipe down the walls. Pay extra attention to corners and baseboards where dust tends to accumulate. A clean canvas ensures your wallpaper sticks like a charm.

Smooth Operator: Fill and Sand

For an absolutely perfect finish, smooth out any imperfections on your walls by filling in cracks, holes, and uneven surfaces with spackle or joint compound. Once dry, grab a fine-grit sandpaper and gently sand the patched areas until they are flush with the wall. Smooth walls make for easier wallpaper application and a professional finish. And again swab for dust!

Prime Time

To ensure maximum adhesion and a smooth finish, consider priming your walls before applying wallpaper. Primer helps to seal the surface, even out any imperfections, and provides a better surface for the wallpaper adhesive to grip onto. Choose a primer suitable for your wall type (e.g., drywall, plaster) and allow it to dry completely before proceeding with wallpaper installation.

Check for Moisture and Humidity

Before diving into wallpaper application, consider the humidity and moisture levels in the room. Excessive moisture can affect the adhesive and cause bubbles or peeling over time. Ensure the room is well-ventilated during and after wallpaper installation to promote proper drying and adherence.

Smooth Sailing: Walls are Ready to Wow!

Congratulations – your walls are now prepped and primed for the ultimate wallpaper decor transformation! By cleaning, smoothing, and priming your walls, you’ve set the stage for a seamless application process. Now, grab your wallpaper, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and enjoy the satisfaction of transforming your space with stunning wallpaper that reflects your style.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Custom Wallpaper Murals

Installing custom wallpaper murals can be a fun and rewarding project, especially when the murals come numbered and arrive in easy-to-handle panels. With a little patience and the right approach, you can transform any room into a stunning masterpiece. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your wallpaper decor project a breeze.

Measure and Plan

Start by measuring the height and width of your wall. Custom wallpaper murals usually come numbered, making it easy to follow along. Lay out all your panels on the floor in numerical order to get a sense of the mural’s complete look. This step ensures you know where each panel goes before you start pasting them on the wall. Leave the panels flat for a couple of hours to help them de-curl.

Apply the Paste

If you’re using “paste the wall” wallpaper, you’ll apply the paste directly to the wall instead of the paper. This method makes the process simpler and less messy. Using a paint roller or brush, apply an even layer of paste to the section of the wall where your first panel will go. Be sure to cover an area slightly wider than the panel itself.

Hang the First Panel

Take your first numbered panel and line it up with the top of the wall, ensuring it’s straight. You can use a level to double-check your alignment. Starting from the top, gently press the panel against the wall, smoothing it down with your hands. Use a clean paint roller or plastic smoother to remove any air bubbles, working from the centre outwards.

Hang the Remaining Panels

Continue the process with the remaining panels, applying paste to the wall and hanging each numbered panel in order. Make sure to align the edges of each panel carefully to ensure the design matches up perfectly. Smooth out any bubbles and trim the excess as you go.

Trim the Excess

Once your mural is in place, use a sharp utility knife or scalpel to trim any excess wallpaper along the edges of the wall, around windows, or door frames. Hold a straight edge against the wall as a guide for a clean, precise cut. Wipe away any excess paste with a damp sponge.

Final Touches

After all panels are up, give the mural a final smooth with your brush to ensure it’s fully adhered and bubble-free. Check the edges and seams to make sure everything is secure. Allow the wallpaper to dry according to the paste manufacturer’s instructions, typically 24-48 hours.

Tips for a Flawless Finish

• Work Slowly and Carefully: Take your time aligning each panel. Precision in placement makes a big difference in the final look.
• Use Plenty of Paste: Ensure there’s enough paste on the wall, especially at the edges, to prevent peeling.
• Keep It Clean: Wipe off excess paste immediately to avoid stains or marks on your mural.
• Get a Helper: If possible, enlist someone to help you handle the panels and align them correctly. It can make the process smoother and faster.

We’ve gone through budget-friendly tips to keep your wallet happy, explored how to pick the perfect wallpaper mural to match your style, and covered wall preparation for a flawless application. Finally, our step-by-step guide to installing custom wallpaper murals ensures you achieve a professional finish. With these tips and tricks, you’re ready to refresh your space with stunning wallpaper decor. Dive in, have fun, and watch your room come to life in no time!