Wallpaper Mistakes to Avoid

Jaima Emmert

Even the most stunning wallpaper loses its impact if it isn’t lined up correctly. Here are the top mistakes to avoid:

No connecting lines are visible between panels when lined up correctly

Measuring Without Consulting a Professional
There’s more to sizing up your space than meets the eye. Attempting to calculate rolls on your own can lead to costly miscalculations.

Not Double-Checking Your Pattern
Before opening any rolls, confirm that you received the exact design you ordered. If there’s an error, unopened rolls can usually be returned or exchanged.

Ignoring Run Numbers
Always ensure every roll is from the same run number. Even slight shade differences will stand out once the panels are installed.

Beautiful results when hanging a mural from the same run number

Overlooking the Repeat
Professional installers know that before hanging a single strip, you need to check the pattern repeat. Trimmed edges or misjudged repeats = mismatched designs. That’s how you end up with birds that don’t line up or color patches that look completely off.

Skipping a Test Run
Always hang one full repeat first and step back. This simple check helps catch alignment issues early, ensuring the final look feels seamless, like artwork on your walls.

Starting Crooked
If the first strip isn’t perfectly plumb, every strip that follows will be off. Begin with precision.

Overlapping Seams or Leaving Gaps
Wallpaper edges should meet cleanly, creating a continuous surface with seams that are nearly invisible.

Ignoring Wall Prep
Bumps, ridges, or poorly primed walls make alignment impossible and may cause peeling later. Smooth, clean, and prep your walls properly before starting.