How to Cover Bad Wallpaper

Whether you've purchased a new home or simply realized your taste has changed, you may find yourself facing a room with bad wallpaper. If the wallpaper is particularly old, or if the wall was not properly primed prior to wallpapering, removing the wallpaper can prove to be a daunting task. If this is the case, consider it an opportunity to use a little creativity in finding a decorative, tasteful way to cover bad wallpaper.

Sponge
Detergent
Paintbrush
Wallpaper glue
Primer
Paint roller
Wallpaper
Oil based paint

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the wallpaper with a sponge and a combination of detergent and warm water. Do not soak the wallpaper, but rather slightly dampen the sponge and use it to scrub off any dirt or grime.
- 2
  Seal down any area where the wallpaper is peeling or lifting. Apply wallpaper glue to a paintbrush and brush the exposed backside of the wallpaper, then press it down firmly against the wall.
- 3
  Prime the old wallpaper with a paint roller and primer. Apply the primer using long, even strokes.
- 4
  Cover your bad wallpaper with new wallpaper. Use wallpaper glue and a paintbrush to apply the glue to the old wallpaper, then press on the new wallpaper. If you do not want new wallpaper, move on to the next step.
- 5
  Paint over the wallpaper. For a smooth look, use the paint roller and oil-based paint. For a textured look, wait until the primer has fully dried, then apply paint by dabbing on with a sponge. Because patterned wallpaper may show up underneath the paint and look unsightly, test this technique on a small, hidden corner of the wallpaper prior to doing the entire wall.

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Wallpaper