How to Apply an Embossed Wallpaper Ceiling Treatment
More in Windows Walls and Doors
Highlights:
- Step 1: Create a Worktable
- Step 2: Prepare the Ceiling Surface
- Step 3: Test for Loose Paint
- Step 4: Prime the Surface
- Step 5: Run a Chalk Line
- Step 6: Roll Out the Wallpaper
- Step 7: Apply Wallpaper Adhesive
- Step 8: Set the Wallpaper in Place
- Step 9: Use the Smoothing Brush
- Step 10: Line Up and Apply Each Strip
- Step 11: Remove Excess Wallpaper
- Step 12: Apply Finishing Paint
Step 1: Create a Worktable
A long, raised worktable and a raised walkway the length of the room will make it a whole lot easier to apply long strips of wallpaper to the ceiling. To create the worktable, place a large piece of plywood or scrap wood on top of two stepladders. Make the walkway with plywood or scrap wood set on milk crates.
Step 2: Prepare the Ceiling Surface
Good prep work is the key to beautiful results. Remove any old wall coverings, then sand and clean the surface. Use a commercial cleaning solution or make your own with a mixture of 2 cups bleach to 1 gallon water. The clay-based adhesive used to apply this wall covering won't bond properly unless the application surface is very clean.
Step 3: Test for Loose Paint
To test the surface for loose paint, use a razor blade to cut an X about 1" long into the ceiling paint, put a piece of adhesive tape against the X , and snap it off quickly. If any paint chips come off onto the tape, you need to sand the surface again.
Step 4: Prime the Surface
Prime the clean surface with acrylic primer designed for use with clay-based adhesive. Let it dry for 24 hours.
Step 5: Run a Chalk Line
A straight line on the ceiling is necessary for the application of the first run of wallpaper. Wallpaper rolls come in widths of 20 1/2", so a line measured 20" from the edge of the ceiling allows overlap for trimming. Measure 20" from the molding at each end of the ceiling. Pound a nail at one 20" mark (Image 1), attach a chalk line, and run the chalk line the length of the ceiling (Image 2).
Step 6: Roll Out the Wallpaper
Roll the first length of wallpaper onto the worktable and hold in place. Take care not to destroy the embossing by pressing down on it too heavily.
Step 7: Apply Wallpaper Adhesive
Use a wallpaper brush or paintbrush to apply the wallpaper adhesive to the wall covering, one sheet at a time. Let the adhesive set up for 10 minutes before applying the wallpaper.
Step 8: Set the Wallpaper in Place
Bring the wallpaper sheet out an extra inch against the ceiling molding on the right side, and set in place along the chalk line (Image 1). Hold up only about a foot of wall covering at a time; carefully press in into place (Image 2).
Step 9: Use the Smoothing Brush
After you've attached about a foot or so of wallpaper, go over it with a wallpaper-smoothing brush. Apply a fair amount of pressure to ensure adhesive bonding. Work down the length of the sheet, keeping the edge of the wallpaper plumb with the chalk line.
Step 10: Line Up and Apply Each Strip
Cut the next length of wallpaper from the roll, adding an extra 3" to 6" on each end to allow for pattern matching. Apply the next strip of wallpaper to the ceiling, taking care to match the pattern and to butt the edges of the adjacent length of wallpaper tightly, with no overlapping.
Step 11: Remove Excess Wallpaper
Use a trim guard to make sure the wallpaper fits snugly against the edge of the molding (Image 1). Run a razor knife along the trim guard to cut off the excess wallpaper (Image 2); make overlapping cuts to make sure you cut all the way through. Pull off the strip of excess wallpaper and use a wet sponge to clean any adhesive off the molding at the wallpaper line.
Step 12: Apply Finishing Paint
After 24 hours, the wallpaper can be painted. The clay-based adhesive discolors the wallpaper, making painting a necessity. Apply paint with a high-nap roller to ensure good coverage. The historical look of a plaster, tin or leather-embossed ceiling is achieved with the paint finish chosen: flat latex gives a plaster effect, high-gloss latex in a dark color simulates leather, and automobile enamel gives a metallic look.
Products
Was this project helpful?
Advertisement
Find your DIY inspiration or just steal ideas from the best renovations and remodels done by the DIY Network pros.
COMMENT ON THIS PROJECT
Sign in
All fields are required.
Signing in
Please enter your email address and we will send your password
E-mail Address
Your password has been sent and should arrive in your mailbox very soon.
Not a member?
Sign up with DIY Network to share tips with other do-it-yourselfers and comment and ask questions on projects.
It's free and easy.
