How to Wallpaper Over Wallpaper

Looking to update your existing wallpaper? What if we told you that you could do this without removing it? Easily transform the look of any room with our helpful guide on wallpapering over wallpaper. We’ll discuss whether this is the right option for you and how to do it properly.

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To wallpaper over wallpaper, prepare the wall by removing fixtures, filling holes, sanding imperfections, sealing seams, cleaning the surface, and applying primer. Then measure and cut strips with overhang, apply wallpaper paste to the side you’ll attach, and smooth onto the wall. Once dry, trim the excess off.
Wallpapering over existing wallpaper is possible, but only if the existing wallpaper is in good condition. Avoid applying to vinyl coatings, textured or damaged wallpaper, or dark/patterned designs that might show through.

Should you wallpaper over wallpaper?

While wallpapering over wallpaper is sometimes an option, you’ll have to consider a few things before you start, such as the condition, colour, and coating of your current wallpaper.

Below are some instances where you should strip the existing wallpaper rather than paper over it.

The wall already holds more than one layer of wallpaper

Check if yours does by cutting into a hidden spot on the wall.

The existing wallpaper has a vinyl coating

The water-resistant plastic layer on top won’t absorb the adhesive, making repapering almost impossible. This may also lead to mould growth between the layers.

The existing wallpaper is textured

Textured wallpaper will show through your new wallpaper, especially if the new one is untextured.

The existing wallpaper is in bad condition

Wallpapering over imperfections will create lumps and bumps. So, if your current wallpaper has rips, creases, has been applied badly, or has raised edges, it’s best to strip it off and start from scratch.

The existing wallpaper is noticeably darker than your new one

If you’re attempting to place a light cream or white wallpaper over a much darker shade of paper, the colour may show through. The same goes for if you’re putting a plain wallpaper over a heavily patterned one. You can check for this beforehand by ordering a sample of your new wallpaper and holding it up against your wall.

Let's begin wallpapering

To ensure a successful project, we’ve outlined what you’ll need to wallpaper over your wallpaper.

Before you start papering, you’ll need to prepare the wall to ensure it adheres well. You can do this by:

Take out any nails or hooks, fill in the holes with wall filler, and sand it down to create a flat surface.
Check the wall over to make sure there are no imperfections that may show through. If there are any areas that are beginning to peel, use some adhesive to stick them back down.
Clean your walls using a duster first and then a damp cloth. Be sure to place masking tape over electrical sockets to prevent any moisture from entering them. Allow the wall to completely dry before you begin wallpapering.
Seal the seams using a paint roller or seam roller to make sure they lie flat.
Apply a wallpaper primer to create a smoother surface and improve adhesion.

Measure your walls and cut the wallpaper into strips to fit, making sure you leave a few extra inches at the top and bottom. Lay your wallpaper on a flat surface and apply wallpaper paste to the opposing side.

TOP TIP: You’ll want to do this quickly so the paste doesn’t dry out before you stick the wallpaper to the wall.

Then hang the new wallpaper starting at the top of the wall, smoothing it down firmly and working out any air bubbles. You’ll want to leave an overhang at the top and bottom which will be trimmed away later on. Continue with the other strips, aligning the patterns at the seams. Then trim the excess at the top and bottom with a utility knife and ruler.

For a more detailed step-by-step on applying wallpaper, check out our ‘How to wallpaper a room’ guide.

Leave the wallpaper to dry and bring your furniture back into the room. Now you can freshen up your homeware to suit your new walls.

So, while it is possible to wallpaper over wallpaper, it’s important to consider whether it will work with your old wallpaper. You’ll need a completely flat, unblemished surface that won’t show through your new wallpaper, so make sure to spend time removing as many imperfections as possible before you start. It’s a great way to save time and effort, especially if you change up your interior design frequently, so you have more time to design your room around it. If you’re still not decided on a new wallpaper, check out our guide on wallpaper ideas by room.

FAQs

It’s recommended that you only ever have two layers of wallpaper on the wall at one time as any more will affect its durability and how well it adheres to the wall. If you’re not sure how many layers are currently on your wall, cut into a hidden spot or play it safe by stripping it back completely and starting from scratch.

The type of paint you’re wallpapering over is something you need to consider. If it’s a matt paint, you’re probably good to wallpaper over it, but if it’s a silk or vinyl paint, you may have similar issues as you would with vinyl-coated wallpaper where the adhesive won’t stick properly. You’ll also want to make sure the paintwork is in good condition as any imperfections might cause dents or bubbles in your new wallpaper.