As a professional decorator with over 15 years of experience, I always start by ensuring the ceiling is spotless. Apply a specialized wallpaper primer using a standard paint roller—this product minimizes glue residue if you ever remove the paper later.
Mark your vertical starting line for the first strip: measure the wallpaper width and locate the starting point (typically from a corner). Use a level, yardstick, or plumb line for precision.
Measure the full length of the ceiling and add 4 extra inches to account for pattern matching.
Pour wallpaper adhesive into a tray or bucket. Spread it evenly on the back with a 3-inch brush, inspecting from multiple angles to catch missed spots.
Fold the pasted side onto itself (booking) and let it activate for 5 minutes.
Use a sturdy ladder or rented scaffolding for safety. This is best as a two-person job: one aligns along the starting line while the other supports the roll—either by hand on scaffolding or draped nearby.
Bubbles may appear—gently wipe with a damp, soapy sponge to press them out and smooth the surface. Use it to remove excess adhesive too, working continuously as you hang.
Trim excess from the first strip, then repeat. Match seams precisely for seamless pattern continuity.
