WALLPAPER FAQ

How is your wallpaper printed?

Our newly launched wallpaper collaboration is printed on non-woven wallpaper, meaning it won't shrink or expand over time.

Can I order a swatch?

Absolutely! Please send your request to customerservice@shabbychic.com and a team member will be happy to assist you. We will ship your swatch(s) within 3-5 business days.

What is the order minimum?

Each double roll measures 11 yards (396") tall x 20.5" wide. Orders less than 11 yds. (one double roll) are not available. Pricing can be found on the product page of the item(s) you are interested in.

What is the lead time for your wallpaper?

Orders ship within 3-5 business days via ground transit. Tracking details will be emailed to you once available.

INSTALLATION

What tools will I need for my project?

Most of the tools you will need are probably already in your toolbox, except for a few specialized tools. Gather the following items:

• Drop cloth
• Tape measure
• A pencil
• Putty knife or straight edge
• Sponge and bucket of clean water
• Smoothing tool (brush or plastic)
• Seam roller
• Utility knife
• Level
• Paste
• Paste brush or roller

How do I install wallpaper?

Our wallpapers install via Quick & easy 'Paste The Wall' application method. This wallpaper is made with a special backing that does not expand when wet; therefore, it does not need to soak as in other application methods. No decorating table or pre-cutting required. Take the time to fill in any cracks and repair imperfections in the walls surface prior to application. Apply the paste directly a clean wall, making sure the surface is smooth, and adhere wallpaper to the area. Adhesive may be wiped gently from the face of the wallcovering with a damp cloth/sponge at the time of hanging while the adhesive is still damp.

What type of paste should I use?

Most commercially available pastes will work for most wallpaper projects. However, some heavy grade wallpapers might require a stronger adhesive.

How do I cut the wallpaper for each strip?

Your first strip should measure the height of your wall plus four inches. This will leave two inches at the top and bottom for trimming. Mark the end of the first strip with a pencil and straightedge. Then use a sharp utility knife in one continuous cut across the paper. You’ll need to consider your pattern repeat before you cut the rest of your strips to ensure your design matches vertically and horizontally. For instance, in a straight design match you will want to cut each strip the same length beginning at the same point in the pattern. For an offset design match, you should roll out the paper side by side with the first strip to match up the patterns and cut paper accordingly.

Do I overlap the seams when hanging wallpaper?

Wallpaper seams should not overlap but instead should be “butted” together. The two edges of the wallpaper should be touching but not overlapping. A seam roller is a tool that can be used to seal the wallpaper seams and help smooth any edges that have lifted. Do not roll the seams too aggressively or you will push out all the adhesive.

How do I avoid wallpaper seams showing or separating?

Unsightly wallpaper seams can be avoided by following the proper procedures for “booking” and smoothing wallpaper. “Booking” helps wallpaper to evenly absorb the moisture that activates the adhesive so you don’t have to worry about wallpaper shrinking up while it sets. A wallpaper smoothing tool should be used after you hang each strip. This will help the seams line up and smooth out the paper. A seam roller can also help seal and set wallpaper seams. It is important to know if you choose a grasscloth or natural fiber wallpaper, that seams will show because the natural fibers do not create perfect seams. This is actually a style choice and one reason why coverings like grasscloth are popular with decorators who are looking to create a natural and textured look in their space.

How do I trim the excess wallpaper?

Once the wallpaper is hung, you will trim the excess paper from the top and bottom for an exact fit. Use a putty knife to guide a sharp blade in a long, continuous cut across the excess paper around the ceilings and baseboards.

How do I wallpaper around window and door frames?

When you reach a door/window frame, allow the paper to hang over the door or window while you smooth the paper until it meets the door/window frame. Once the area is smoothed, cut off the paper that hangs over the door/window, leaving only a few inches for trimming. You will want to make a diagonal cut in the paper at the corner of the door/window frame, allowing the paper to lay flat at the edge of the frame. Smooth the paper down around the corner. Use your putty knife and a sharp blade to trim the excess paper around the door/window frame.

How do I avoid bubbles and creases in my wallpaper?

Bubbles and creases are caused by air bubbles underneath the paper and can be the result of uneven smoothing. This can be avoided by smoothing down the center of the strip first and then smooth outward. Bubbles that form during hanging can be fixed by lifting the paper up around the bubble and smoothing it back down. If the bubble is not discovered until the wallpaper is

dry, it will be difficult to fix without causing a crease in the paper. Bubbles may also be caused by a weak bond with the wall. Avoid this by allowing adequate time for “booking” in the preparation stages. “Booking” the paper activates the adhesive so the paper sticks to the wall evenly.

How long will it take for my wallpaper to dry?

Dry time can depend on the type of wallpaper and the condition of the room. The average time for drying is somewhere between 24-48 hours. However, some wallpapers can take up to two weeks before the adhesive is completely dry and set. If you are waiting for wallpaper to dry before painting or adding a border, it is recommended to wait at least 36-48 hours before starting either of these processes.

CARE & MAINTENANCE

How do I clean wallpaper?

Wallpaper can be cleaned using dry methods. These include vacuuming, using a soft brush attachment to avoid damaging the texture, or dusting with a dry sponge or soft cloth. your wallpaper or dusting it with a sponge or soft cloth. Some wallpapers cannot be washed. You can test whether your wallpaper can be washed by picking an inconspicuous spot of wallpaper and applying your solution of dish soap and water to it. If the wallpaper absorbs the water or the colors run, it is not washable. Never use abrasive cleaners. If your wallpaper is washable, use a sponge lightly dampened with a solution of water and a small amount of dish soap. Do not soak the paper. Have a dry cloth handy to wipe up excess solution. Finish this washing process by rinsing the wallpaper with a lightly dampened cloth or sponge with water alone, and immediately dry the wallpaper with a terry-cloth towel.

How much wallpaper do I need?

Calculate the wall area by multiplying the height of the wall by the width. Second, calculate the area(s) of the wall you will not be papering (i.e. windows and doors) by multiplying the height by the width of each area. Subtract the un-papered area from the area of the wall to be covered to determine the wallpapering area. Divide the wallpapering area by the square footage of the wallpaper you would like to purchase. This will give you the total number of rolls needed to complete your project. However, you will need to consider extra paper for the pattern repeat and extra trimmings.