How To Wallpaper Around A Window
Even the most confident wallpapering pro can start to come a little unstuck (quite literally) when navigating around a recessed window. Learning how to remove wallpaper around a window is the easy part but repapering the same spot can be tricky, to say the least.
This task might be super daunting but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a simple step-by-step guide to achieving a polished, professional finish.
Once you’ve mastered the art of wallpapering around a recessed window, you can start applying your newfound skills to things like wall murals and being able to wallpaper around sockets—but first, let’s iron out the basics.
Image credit - @kfiszerfoto & @barker_design
Everything you’ll need to get started
Below is a list of all the tools you’ll need to succeed. Tick these off your to-do list before donning your decorating garb and getting to work on wallpapering around those windows.
Your wallpaper
Wallpaper paste
Dust sheets to cover your furniture and floor
Sharp scissors or craft knife
Paste brush or roller
Paste bucket
Ladder
Plumb line or spirit level
Tape measure or ruler
Pencil
Seam roller
Wallpaper smoother
Water bucket and a cleaning cloth
Filler and sandpaper (just in case…)Â
Note: If you’re using peel-and-stick wallpaper, you won’t need any wallpaper paste or pasting accessories.Â
Image credit - @ourlondonlittlelife
Step-by-step: how to wallpaper around a window the easy way
1. Measure and mark around the window
Use your tape measure and plumb bob to work out where you're going to hang your first strip of wallpaper, either to the left or right of the window.Â
Overlap the paper over the window enough so that it can be folded into the recess with some additional overlap over the window frame. This means the overlap amount needs to be the width of the window recess plus an inch or so more, so it can be folded into the recess and trimmed neatly around the frame.
2. Hang your first drop
Apply your paste to the wall and window recess then align your strip of paper with the marked measurements, ensuring it also lines up with any patterns on the piece next to it. Use your wallpaper smoother to push out any air bubbles or wrinkles.Â
3. Fold, cut, and trim into place
Find the bottom and top corners of the window recess and use a sharp knife or pair of scissors to cut horizontally in line with the recess. You can then fold the overlapping paper neatly into the recess, smoothing away any air bubbles or creases.Â
The paper should now be right up against the window frame with a little overlap and flush with the ledge, which you can now carefully trim away.
4. Work your way around the window frame
Cut your next strip of paper, which will sit above the window, to the length of the wall above the window plus the depth of the top recess and an extra inch or so to overlap the window frame.Â
Paste the edge of this piece flush with the long edge of the window recess—this means it will overlap the piece you've already hung to the left or right of the window. Fold into the recess, smoothing away any bubbles, and then trim neatly against the top of the window.
Use a seam roller to create a tight, seamless connection where each panel of wallpaper joins another. Continue this whole process until you're all done.
5. Stand back and admire your work
Now all that’s left for you to do is take a step back and marvel at your new masterpiece. While you’re there, don’t forget to snap a photo and share your wallpapering project with us on social media using #hoviahome
Image credit - @abigailrogersinteriors
Tips and tricks for achieving a professional finish
Here are some words to the wise wallpaper-er to help you achieve that expert finish you’re looking for.
Some common mistakes to avoid
Never use a blunt knife or scissors to trim your wallpaper as this will scuff the edge.Â
Never fit things like curtain poles, shelves, or even picture frames until the wallpaper and paste are completely dry.
Don’t forget to double—no, triple—check your measurements before placing your wallpaper order.
Expert tip: Order a bit more wallpaper than you actually need (15-25%) so you’ve got some spare in case of any mistakes. Offcuts always come in handy too for awkward nooks and crannies elsewhere.
How to prevent air bubbles
Prep your surface first by cleaning the wall and window recess to remove any dust or dirt. Fill in any gaps or cracks, and smooth over any imperfections too.
Use a seam roller and wallpaper smoother as you go to push any air bubbles out before the paste dries.
Hang your paper facing away from natural light to reduce the visibility of any overlaps or blemishes.
Take your time with it—rushing will only lead to unnecessary mistakes and imperfections.
If a bubble does occur, cut a tiny slit at the side of the blistered paper, gently press the air out and then adhere back down with a small amount of paste and smooth over. Make sure to wipe away any excess paste.Â
Choose a high-quality wallpaper
Make life easy for yourself by investing in premium wallpaper that will hang beautifully without bubbling, curling, or ripping while you work. Cheaper options are often less cooperative and don’t always stand the test of time.
Check out our wide selection of modern wallpapers, from faux surfaces to abstract designs—and everything in between.
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Image credit - @mycolorfulfloridise