Do You Apply Wallpaper Paste to the Wall?
A Practical Guide by Adawall
When it comes to installing wallpaper, one of the most frequently asked questions is:
“Do I apply the wallpaper paste to the wall or the wallpaper?”
The answer? It depends on the wallpaper type—non-woven wallpaper, traditional paper wallpaper, or pre-pasted wallpaper—and each comes with its own method. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices and make sure your next wallpaper project with Adawall is smooth and stunning.
Types of Wallpaper and How to Apply Paste
1. Non-Woven Wallpaper
This modern, high-performance wallpaper is designed for easy installation.
Paste is applied directly to the wall.
This is known as the “paste-the-wall” method. It makes installation faster and cleaner, perfect for DIYers.
Adawall’s premium collections often use this technology for customer convenience.
2. Traditional Paper Wallpaper
This classic type requires more prep.
Paste is applied to the back of the wallpaper.
After pasting, the paper needs to “book” (rest folded) for 5–10 minutes to activate the adhesive and prevent bubbling.
3. Pre-Pasted Wallpaper
These wallpapers have dry adhesive on the back.
You only need to soak them in water.
They’re beginner-friendly, though not as durable as Adawall’s non-woven wallpapers.
Why Adawall Recommends Paste-the-Wall Technology
At Adawall, we prioritize easy installation and long-term performance. Our non-woven wallpapers are engineered for wall-pasting, which:
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Speeds up the process
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Minimizes mess
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Reduces shrinkage and seam issues
It’s also easier to remove later, making it perfect for residential and commercial projects alike.
Tools You’ll Need
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Wallpaper adhesive (always use a paste that matches your wallpaper type)
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Smoothing brush or plastic smoother
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Utility knife or snap-off blade
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Level or plumb line
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Roller or paste brush
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Sponge and clean cloth for cleanup
How to Apply Paste to the Wall: Step-by-Step
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Prep the wall
Clean, smooth, and prime the surface. Adawall recommends a quality wallpaper primer to ensure best adhesion. -
Apply the adhesive
Use a roller for large areas and a brush for corners. Apply evenly—avoid thick blobs. -
Hang the wallpaper
Start from a straight vertical line. Place the first strip carefully and smooth out bubbles as you go. -
Trim edges
Use a sharp knife and straight edge to trim excess at ceiling and floor. -
Wipe off paste
Clean seams and overlaps with a damp sponge before it dries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping primer on problematic walls
Using the wrong adhesive
Not following the wallpaper-specific instructions
Applying paste too thick or unevenly
Always refer to Adawall’s application guide included in your order or contact our team for support.
How Adawall Makes It Easier
Unlike many generic wallpaper brands, Adawall offers full guidance, technical support, and sample swatches to ensure everything from paste to print is flawless. With our innovative designs and professional-grade materials, your walls will look like they were done by an expert—even if they weren’t.
Final Thoughts
So, should you apply paste to the wall or the wallpaper?
With Adawall, most of the time the answer is: paste the wall—because we design for modern living, elegant spaces, and easy application.
Ready to transform your space? Explore our curated collections and start your wallpaper journey with confidence.
