How to wallpaper a ceiling

How many walls does your room have? Four? That’s what we thought too, but in the last year we’ve seen lots of designers introducing a unique new ‘wall’ space into their décor… The Fifth Wall, aka the ceiling. It might sound a little out there, but we promise you’ll be seeing a lot more of this method in the future, which is a simple process of adding wallpaper to your ceiling just as you would your walls.

Papering overhead may seem like a tricky process but it’s a lot easier than you might think, and depending on which wallpaper you choose, you can either paste the paper or paste the ceiling to make it easier still. But why would you? We’re glad you asked…

The benefits of papering your 5th Wall

Wallpapering your ceiling can add more dimension to a room, giving a lighter or cosier impression, and it can also act as your feature wall if you want to keep your vertical walls bare. Wallpapered ceilings can also play with your perceptions depending on the design of the print.

We’ve used the wallpaper from our Dreamscape trend to demonstrate this, as it has a dreamy, cloud-like look that goes well in a ceiling setting. The wallpapers from this range have an under-layer of vinyl which makes them perfect for covering slight imperfections, and can be used in any room.

Choose from a heavenly blue cloud print with a discreet sprinkle of glitter. Or opt for a moodier design with shades of violet, amethyst and hints of metallic shimmer.

How to prepare and apply wallpaper to your ceiling:

It might seem more challenging because you’ll be hanging straight up instead of straight down, but we’ve put together a simple guide to help you get started: Measuring is key

• Measure the dimensions of your ceiling with a metal tape measure;

• Use our roll calculator to calculate how many rolls you’ll require;

• Measure 53cm out from the edge of the ceiling;

• Using a pencil and a spirit level or folding yardstick mark out the width of each wallpaper drop on the ceiling.

Have your tools to hand, and we recommend having a second pair of hands to help you with the application.

You will need:

• Wallpaper brush (or a long-handled roller if you’re pasting the ceiling)

• Ladder (and someone to hold it steady)

• Wallpaper paste

• Metal tape measure

• Scissors and a sharp blade

• Spirit level, folding yardstick or a long piece of string

• Hanging brush

• Damp sponge

• Pasting table (if pasting the paper)

• Long-handled brush

As explained earlier, there are two types of wallpaper application:

Paste the Paper

A more traditional method is to paste the paper on a trestle table.

• Measure the length required (allow for a 5cm overlap on either side);

• Unroll the wallpaper on your trestle table;

• Apply the paste to the back of the paper;

• Allow time for the paste to soak in.

Paste the ceiling

This application is faster than the traditional method, and will save space as you won’t need a table.

• Measure the length required (allow for a 5cm overlap on either side);

• Apply the paste evenly onto the first section of the ceiling – too much paste will drip.

Hanging the wallpaper

Now you can get going with the application. This is when you’ll need an extra pair of hands.

• Fold your paper 2/3 at one end and 1/3 at the other;

• Carefully climb the ladders, leaving at least 10cm between the ceiling and your head;

• Using the shorter end of the roll, hold it up against the edge of the ceiling and in line with the pencilled line you drew earlier;

• Once you’re sure the first piece is in the correct place, spread out the paper slowly from the middle outwards, pushing any bubbles out through the side of the paper;

• Unfold the remaining piece of roll and with a long-handled brush, your helper can hold up each section for ease;

• When you’ve placed your first piece on the ceiling and pushed all the bubbles away, score along the edge of the ceiling with a blade and use your scissors to cut the overlap away (where it joins with the wall);

• Wipe paper with a damp sponge to remove any excess paste; Continue with your next piece of paper, aligning it against the previous piece.

Ready to try out this up and coming trend? Let’s find you a fabulous new wallpaper.

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