What does “paste the wall” mean?

Dear Martina,
I am glad you are taking your first steps into the wonderful world of wallpaper! Let’s deal with a very basic question first:

What is “paste the wall” wallpaper?

“Paste the wall” wallpaper is a special paper that doesn’t need to be soaked in wallpapering paste before it is installed on the wall. You just need to paste the wall before hanging it. As a result, it is easier to work with than other types of wallpaper.

What is the difference between “paste the paper” and “paste the wall” wallpapers?

“Paste the wall” wallpaper is generally made of non-woven material that acts like a mesh (don’t worry, it looks just like paper!). It’s not thicker or heavier than “paste the paper” models, but more durable. As a result, it doesn’t expand when the paste is applied.

What are the advantages of using “paste the wall” wallpaper?

Using “paste the wall” wallpaper provides many advantages, let’s look at them in more detail:

• It’s easier to work with
  With “paste the paper” models, wallpapering paste needs to be spread all over the paper, especially the edges and corners of each length. If you are new to wallpapering, you might end up going over the edges. Some paste will end up on the table, resulting in the risk of staining the next strip. With “paste the wall” wallpaper, the adhesive goes straight onto the walls which means there is no need to use a pasting table.
• You can take all the time you need
  With “paste the paper” models, once the sheet is soaked, you have a limited amount of time to hang the paper before it begins to dry. With “paste the wall” wallpaper, if you need more time to line it up correctly you can always apply another layer of paste to the wall. No stress!
• You will waste less paper
  The wallpaper cut-offs are not covered in glue, which means they can be re-used for gaps, future repairs or for any upcycling projects you might have in mind.
• You need fewer tools
  With “paste the wall” models, you don’t need to invest in a special wallpaper cutter. This tool is primarily designed to cut moist, soaked-in-paste wallpaper and can be replaced with sharp high-quality scissors.
• Obstacles are easier to avoid
  Hanging paper around door frames, windows or electrical fittings can be a challenge. If the paper is soaked in adhesive, it can sometimes feel like it is working against you, sticking to places where you don’t it want to. With “paste the wall” wallpaper, the adhesive is on the wall, i.e. it doesn’t come between the paper and the fixtures, so cutting around it is much easier.

Your wallpaper expert
Isabel