How to Apply Vinyl Wall Decals on Orange Peel Walls

When referring to walls, the term “orange peel” describes a method of applying texture to drywall. The final product is a dimpled surface similar to orange peel. It is not completely flat, but there are small valleys. While applying decals to this type of wall is not difficult, it is important to realize that the texture of the wall will transfer to the decal. Instead of being smooth, the decal will appear bumpy. To minimize this appearance, choose a decal with a matte rather than shiny finish. In addition, look for vinyl wall decals that say they can be applied to textured walls.

Soap
Water
Lint-free cloth
Squeegee

Instructions

- 1
  Inspect the surface of your walls. As long as the orange peel is low, with no deep depression or sharp protrusions, the decal will stick to the surface of the wall.
- 2
  Clean the wall with soap, water and a lint-free cloth.
- 3
  Peel the paper backing away from the decal about 3 to 5 inches. If you are applying the decal from the floor up, work from the bottom of the decal. If you are applying the decal as a free-floating object, work from the top of the decal downward.
- 4
  Press the decal to the wall and use a squeegee to smooth out any air bubbles.
- 5
  Continue peeling the paper backing and smoothing the decal until all of it is applied. You may need to use your fingers to smooth the decal into the occasionally deep dimple. It is important to get the decal on the wall correctly the first time, so work slowly. Some decals allow for a limited removal during application but only reusable decals can be completely removed and repositioned.
- 6
  Lift the decal and replace it as necessary to straighten portions of the design. Do this sparingly with decals not specifically labeled as “reusable”.

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