How to Change Sheetrock Walls in a Bedroom

Sheetrock Preparation

• 1

  Clean the sheetrock with a dry rag. Avoid using water or soap if possible, as untreated sheetrock absorbs water.

• 2

  Repair any holes or nicks in the surface by applying drywall mud or spackle with a trowel or spatula. Smooth out the spackle, scraping it flush with the wall, then let it dry before sanding.

• 3

  Sand the repairs you made with a fine grit sanding block, then wipe the dust away with a tack cloth.

Painting

• 4

  Remove outlet covers and switchplates before painting. Tape off window trim and molding so the paint and primer doesn't touch them.

• 5

  Prime the wall with a good quality primer and a roller, if you intend to paint your walls.

• 6

  Allow the primer to dry completely.

• 7

  Pour your paint into a paint tray, then use a clean roller brush to apply the paint evenly to your walls. Let the paint dry and determine if a second coat is needed.

• 8

  Use a trim brush to paint the corners and other trim work.

Wallpaper

• 9

  Clean off the wall with a dry rag as needed.

• 10

  Apply wallpaper sizing to the walls with a paint roller.

• 11

  Allow the sizing to dry, then draw a line on the wall with a straightedge to which you can align the first piece. Make sure the line is parallel to your wall edge so the first piece is straight.

• 12

  Lay your first piece of wallpaper face down on a table and coat the back with wallpaper paste using a paint roller or brush.

• 13

  Fold the wallpaper over your arm so the paste-side is up. Carry it to your wall.

• 14

  Hold the top end to the top edge of the wall, aligning it with the vertical line you drew on the wall.

• 15

  Rub the wallpaper with your hand so it's flat and without bubbles.

• 16

  Cut any excess away with a utility knife or razor blade and peel it off the wall.

• 17

  Continue until all of the wallpaper is applied.