Boho wallpaper adds a touch of whimsy, warmth, and charm to any room. It’s no wonder that the bohemian style has become a popular trend in recent years, with its emphasis on mixing and matching patterns, textures, and colors. Whether you’re going for a maximalist or minimalist look, boho wallpaper can transform any space into a cozy oasis.
Prepare the wall
Before you start, it’s essential to prepare the wall thoroughly. Ensure that the surface is clean, dry, and smooth. If there are any holes or cracks, fill them with spackle or joint compound and sand them down until the surface is even. If the walls were previously painted, remove any loose or flaking paint, and sand down the surface.
If you’re installing wallpaper on a newly plastered wall, allow it to dry for at least four weeks before applying the wallpaper. This will prevent any moisture from being trapped beneath the wallpaper, which can cause it to peel or bubble.
Measure the wall
Measure the height and width of the wall and add a few inches to each measurement to ensure that you have sufficient wallpaper to work with. It’s essential to measure accurately to avoid wasting any wallpaper or having to purchase additional rolls.
Choose the right wallpaper
When selecting your wallpaper, consider the texture, pattern, and color. The boho style is all about mixing and matching different patterns and textures, so don’t be afraid to go bold. However, it’s important to keep in mind the other elements in the room, such as furniture and accessories, to ensure that the wallpaper complements the overall design.
Mix and match patterns
One of the hallmarks of boho style is the use of multiple patterns in one space. When selecting wallpaper, consider mixing and matching different patterns and textures to create a visually interesting space. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between too many patterns and not enough.
If you’re unsure about how to mix and match patterns, start by selecting two or three patterns with different scales. For example, you could choose a large-scale floral pattern, a small-scale geometric pattern, and a medium-scale stripe pattern. This will create a cohesive look without overwhelming the space.
Consider the wallpaper’s direction
When installing wallpaper, it’s important to consider the wallpaper’s direction. If the wallpaper has a pattern, ensure that the pattern runs in the same direction on each strip. This will create a seamless look and prevent any mismatched seams.
Gather your tools
Before starting, gather all the tools you’ll need, such as a wallpaper smoother, utility knife, scissors, ruler, pencil, and wallpaper paste. Ensure that you have sufficient wallpaper paste for the entire project, as running out of paste can cause delays and uneven application.
Apply wallpaper paste
When applying wallpaper paste, ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply the paste evenly to the back of the wallpaper, ensuring that the edges are well covered. Don’t apply too much paste, as this can cause the wallpaper to bubble, and don’t let the paste dry before hanging the wallpaper.
Hang the first strip
Start at the top of the wall and hang the first strip of wallpaper, ensuring that it’s straight and aligned with the vertical line. Allow the excess wallpaper to hang over the ceiling and skirting.
Smooth out the wallpaper
Use a wallpaper smoother to remove any air bubbles and ensure that the wallpaper is well adhered to the wall. Work from the center of the wallpaper strip outward, using long, sweeping strokes.
Trim the excess wallpaper
Using a utility knife, trim the excess wallpaper from the top and bottom of the strip. Ensure that the cut is straight and aligned with the ceiling or skirting.
Hang the subsequent strips
Continue hanging subsequent strips of wallpaper, ensuring that the pattern matches up with the previous strip. Use a ruler and pencil to mark where each strip will overlap, ensuring that the seams are straight and well aligned.
Clean up
Once you’ve finished hanging the wallpaper, clean up any excess paste or debris. Allow the wallpaper to dry for at least 24 hours before moving any furniture back into the room.
In conclusion, installing boho wallpaper may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and expert advice, you can achieve a professional-quality installation. Consider the texture, pattern, and color of the wallpaper, mix and match patterns, prepare the wall, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the wallpaper paste. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can transform any room into a cozy boho oasis.
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