How to Cut Wallpaper Like a Pro?

A Step-by-Step Guide by Adawall

Whether you're refreshing your living room with a subtle texture or adding character to a hallway with bold prints, one key step ensures a flawless finish: cutting your wallpaper correctly.

If you’ve ever searched for “how to cut wallpaper straight,” “tools to cut wallpaper,” or “how to match patterns when cutting wallpaper”, you’re not alone. Cutting wallpaper is one of the most crucial steps in the installation process.

At Adawall, we are dedicated to making your wallpaper project easier, cleaner, and more precise. That’s why we’ve created this complete guide to help you cut wallpaper like a professional—even if it’s your first time.

Why Cutting Wallpaper Properly Matters

Precise cuts are essential for:

• Perfect pattern alignment

• Minimizing waste

• Professional-looking seams

• Smoother installation overall

Poorly cut wallpaper can ruin your entire wall design. That’s why Adawall encourages preparation and the use of the right tools for success.

Tools You’ll Need

To start, gather these essentials:

• Sharp utility knife or snap-off blade

• Wallpaper scissors (for detailed cutting)

• Straight edge or steel ruler

• Measuring tape

• Cutting mat or protected surface

• Pencil or chalk for marking

Adawall Tip: Change your blade often to avoid tearing the wallpaper. A sharp blade equals a clean line.

Step-by-Step: How to Cut Wallpaper Accurately

1. Measure the Wall

Begin by measuring your wall’s height and width. Always add an extra 2 to 3 inches (5–8 cm) for trimming after installation.

For patterned wallpaper, don’t forget to account for the pattern repeat to ensure alignment across panels.

2. Align the Wallpaper on a Flat Surface

Place your wallpaper face down on a clean surface. Flatten the roll and align the pattern if needed. Mark your cut line using a pencil and a ruler.

3. Cut Using a Straight Edge

Hold a metal ruler or straight edge firmly and use your knife to make a clean cut along the line. Work slowly to ensure accuracy.

If you're cutting on a delicate table, place a cutting mat underneath.

4. Dry Fit the Panel

Before applying adhesive or peeling the back (for peel-and-stick wallpaper), test the fit on the wall. Ensure the length, pattern, and alignment look good.

5. Trim After Installation

Once the panel is installed, use a sharp blade to trim excess wallpaper along:

• The ceiling

• The floor

• Around window frames

• Electrical sockets

Adawall Tip: Always trim with a clean blade to avoid ragged edges and tearing.

Special Cutting Tips for Challenging Areas

Windows and Corners:
Use fine scissors for curves and detailed cuts. Take your time to avoid mistakes.

Outlets and Fixtures:
Cut a small "X" in the wallpaper where the outlet is, then carefully trim around it with a utility knife.

Peel and Stick Products:
Cut the backing paper as needed to maintain control while aligning the adhesive.

Adawall’s Expert Recommendation

If this is your first wallpaper project, we recommend practicing with a sample piece first. Adawall includes detailed installation instructions with each wallpaper roll.

Our premium non-woven, vinyl, and peel-and-stick wallpaper collections are designed with user-friendliness in mind—even when it comes to cutting.

How We Compare to Other Wallpaper Brands

While brands like Tempaper or Graham & Brown offer helpful cutting tips, Adawall goes further with:

• Step-by-step printed guides

• Professional-grade wallpapers with easier-to-cut textures

• Customer service to assist you with techniques and troubleshooting

• Optional grid-lined backings (on select products) for perfect alignment

Final Thoughts

Wallpaper cutting doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right tools, a calm pace, and guidance from Adawall, your next wallpaper installation can look like it was done by a pro.

Our mission is to help you transform your space beautifully—and precisely.

Trust Adawall for wallpapers that are not only stunning, but simple to install from cut to finish.