Prepare properly
A smooth, clean and dry wall gives your wallpaper the best foundation.
HOWDY WALLPAPER GUIDE
How to Install Wallpaper Step by Step
A beautiful wall starts with the right preparation. Follow this beginner-friendly guide to measure, position, smooth, match and finish your wallpaper with confidence.
01
Prepare
02
Measure
03
Install
04
Finish
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Wallpaper installation made easier
Take a little time to prepare before the first panel goes on the wall. A clean surface, accurate measurements and a carefully planned starting point make the entire installation easier.
Plan before sticking
Confirm your measurements, panel order and pattern direction first.
Take your time
Slow, controlled movements produce a cleaner and more professional finish.
Check as you go
Step back regularly to check level, seams and pattern alignment.
STEP 00
First, identify your wallpaper
Your installation method depends on the material selected for your order.
Peel & Stick Wallpaper
Peel & Stick wallpaper uses a self-adhesive backing. No separate wallpaper paste is required.
- Clean and properly prepare the wall.
- Position the first panel carefully.
- Peel the backing gradually rather than all at once.
- Smooth from the center toward the edges.
- Match every following panel before pressing firmly.
Canvas Non-Woven Wallpaper
Non-Woven wallpaper uses wallpaper adhesive. Follow the adhesive manufacturer's instructions and your specific product instructions.
- Prepare and prime the wall when appropriate.
- Establish a straight starting line.
- Apply adhesive according to the product instructions.
- Position the panel without stretching it.
- Smooth carefully and remove excess adhesive.
Standard Paper Wallpaper
Standard Paper wallpaper requires wallpaper adhesive. Prepare the wall carefully before beginning.
- Make sure the wall is smooth and properly prepared.
- Measure and plan the panel sequence.
- Use the appropriate wallpaper adhesive.
- Align the first panel carefully.
- Trim only after the panel is positioned correctly.
PREPARE YOUR TOOLS
Keep everything within reach
Having your tools ready before installation prevents unnecessary interruptions once you begin.
01
Tape Measure
Wall dimensions
02
Level
Vertical alignment
03
Smoother
Remove bubbles
04
Sharp Blade
Clean trimming
05
Straight Edge
Precise cuts
06
Clean Cloth
Surface cleanup
THE COMPLETE GUIDE
Install your wallpaper step by step
Follow each stage in order. Don't rush the first panel — it determines the alignment of everything that follows.
STEP 01
Prepare the wall
Start with a clean, dry and smooth surface. Remove loose paint, repair holes and imperfections, and remove old wallpaper where necessary.
PRO TIP
Do not install over a wall that is dirty, damp, peeling or heavily uneven.
STEP 02
Measure and plan
Measure the complete wall width and height. Plan where each panel will begin and how the pattern will flow across the wall.
- Measure width.
- Measure height.
- Confirm panel sequence.
- Check pattern direction.
- Allow enough material for trimming.
Use a level to establish your vertical reference line.
STEP 03
Create a straight starting line
Your wall or room may not be perfectly square. Use a level to create your own straight vertical reference line.
WHY IT MATTERS
If your first panel is crooked, the error can become more noticeable as additional panels are installed.
STEP 04
Install the first panel
Align the first panel with your reference line. Work slowly and maintain control of the wallpaper as you move down the wall.
PEEL & STICK
Peel the backing gradually and expose only the section you are ready to position.
PASTE / NON-WOVEN
Apply the appropriate adhesive according to the wallpaper and adhesive instructions.
STEP 05
Smooth from the center outward
Use a wallpaper smoother to gently press the wallpaper against the wall. Work from the center toward the edges to release air and minimize wrinkles.
DON'T STRETCH THE WALLPAPER
Controlled pressure is better than pulling or stretching the material.
DESIGNER INSPIRATION
Pattern alignment matters
STEP 06
Match the next panel
Before pressing the next panel firmly into position, align the pattern with the panel already installed.
- Compare the design at eye level.
- Check the seam from top to bottom.
- Do not force a pattern match by stretching.
- Step back and inspect the full wall.
STEP 07
Trim the edges
Once the wallpaper is correctly positioned, trim excess material around ceilings, baseboards, corners, doors and windows.
USE A SHARP BLADE
A fresh blade helps create a clean edge and reduces tearing.
WATCH & LEARN
See the complete installation process
For first-time installers, watching the complete process before starting can make the installation much easier.
▶ Watch Installation Video
How to Install Wallpaper
HOWDY DESIGNER COLLECTION
See how wallpaper transforms a room
Explore original artwork from independent designers featured in the Howdy Wallpaper collection.
INSTALLATION HELP
Something doesn't look right?
Most installation problems can be corrected when caught early.
Small air bubbles
Gently smooth from the center toward the nearest edge.
Panel looks crooked
Stop before continuing and re-check your starting line and panel position.
Pattern isn't matching
Do not stretch the panel. Reposition it carefully and check the design repeat.
Edge is lifting
Check that the wall surface was properly prepared and follow the installation method for your material.
FAQ
Wallpaper installation questions
Can a beginner install wallpaper?
Yes. Many homeowners can complete a wallpaper installation themselves when the wall is properly prepared and the installation is planned carefully.
How should I prepare my wall?
Your wall should be clean, dry, smooth and free from dust, grease, loose paint and significant surface imperfections.
Should I install wallpaper over freshly painted walls?
Follow the paint manufacturer's curing guidance before installing wallpaper. Freshly painted surfaces may not be ready for wallpaper immediately.
How do I avoid crooked wallpaper?
Do not rely on the corner of the room alone. Establish a vertical reference line with a level and align the first panel to it.
How do I remove bubbles?
Use a wallpaper smoother and work gently from the center toward the edges. Avoid stretching the material.
What if my wallpaper arrives damaged?
Do not install damaged, incorrect or defective material. Contact Howdy Wallpaper before installation so the team can assist you.
READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR WALL?
Now you know how to install it.
Explore designer wallpapers, murals and statement-making patterns created for beautiful interiors.