Proudly Made in Canada
How to Apply Our
Traditional Wallpaper
Installing traditional wallpaper and murals adds timeless style, rich texture, and lasting quality to any space.
The classic "old school" wallpaper experience, made simpler.
What Is Traditional Wallpaper and Why Do Canadians Love It?
Traditional wallpaper is a paste-the-wall covering made from non-woven paper that delivers superior durability and that authentic, premium finish that elevates any space. This is the wallpaper we all grew up with — that classic look and feel you find in beautifully designed homes.
Made with Greenguard Gold-certified materials in our Vancouver studio, our traditional non-woven wallpapers are both eco-conscious and exceptionally high-quality — the perfect combination of artisan craftsmanship and lasting beauty. Using the paste-the-wall method (applying paste to the wall, not the paper) makes installation easier than traditional techniques.
Ideal for living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and spaces where you want a sophisticated, permanent transformation.
What You'll Need
Measuring Tape
Measure your wall and cut panels accurately
Clean Lint-free Cloth
Wipe away excess paste as you work
Level or Laser Guide
Keep panels perfectly straight and seamless
Wallpaper Paste
We recommend a quality wallpaper adhesive
Paste roller or Brush
Apply paste evenly to the wall
Large paint tray or bucket
For mixing and holding paste
Squeegee or Smoothing Brush
Remove air bubbles and wrinkles (Our eco-friendly solution: use a flap from your wallpaper box)
Box Cutter or Utility Knife
Trim clean edges easily (box cutters work better than scissors)
Drop cloth or plastic sheeting
Protect your floors
Seam roller
Press down edges where panels meet
Step Stool
For reaching higher spots
Plumb bob or chalk line (optional)
For marking straight guidelines
💡 Tip: Traditional wallpaper installation takes a bit more prep than peel & stick, but the results are absolutely worth it. Having everything ready before you start makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
How to Install Traditional Wallpaper &Murals
Your 5-Step Recipe
1. Clean, Prep & Prime Your Wall
Start with a smooth, clean surface. Wipe walls using mild soap and water, then let them dry completely. For best results, apply a wallpaper primer or sizing—this helps the paste bond properly and makes future removal easier.
2. Measure, Cut & Mark
Use a tape measure and level to mark a plumb line at the top of the ceiling. Measure 24" (the width of your wallpaper panel) and mark dots down the wall, then connect them with a straight line. Cut your first panel to length, adding 1-2" extra at top and bottom for trimming.
3. Mix & Apply the Paste
Mix your wallpaper paste according to the manufacturer's instructions until smooth and lump-free. Using a paste roller or brush, apply paste directly to the wall in a section slightly wider than your panel width. Work in sections — paste about 3 feet at a time.
4. Hang & Smooth
Step 4: Hang & Smooth Position your first panel along your marked guide line, leaving excess at the top for trimming. Gently smooth from the center outward using your smoothing brush or tool. Work out any bubbles as you go. Butt each new panel edge-to-edge with the previous one.
5. Trim & Seal
Once your panel is smooth and aligned, use your utility knife and a straight edge to trim excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboards. Press seams gently with a seam roller for a seamless finish. Wipe away any excess paste with a damp sponge.
Pro Tips from Our Vancouver Studio
Insider secrets for flawless installation
- Prime your walls with wallpaper primer or sizing for best adhesion and easier future removal.
- Non-woven paper is easier to work with than traditional paper wallpaper—it won't tear as easily and is more forgiving during installation.
- The paste-the-wall method is much simpler than old-fashioned paste-the-paper techniques. Apply paste directly to the wall in sections as you work.
- Keep your tools clean. Wipe your smoothing brush and sponge frequently to prevent paste buildup.
- Don't overwork the paper. Smooth gently to avoid stretching or damaging the material.
- Match patterns at eye level (around 5 feet up) where they're most visible. This is where pattern alignment matters most.
- For corners, wrap the paper about 1" around the corner, then start the next panel right at the corner edge for a clean finish.
- Remove outlet covers before applying, wallpaper around the opening, trim, then replace covers for a polished look.
- Let the wallpaper dry completely (24-48 hours) before moving furniture back or hanging artwork.
- In a renovation, always apply your wallpaper last. Building sites are messy and other work can dirty or damage it.
Why Choose Wallpaper Online Canada?
Quality, sustainability, and Canadian craftsmanship in every roll
Proudly Canadian
Artisan quality crafted in Vancouver, BC with local expertise
Premium Finish & Durability
Traditional non-woven wallpapers offering luxury durability and paste-the-wall ease.
Eco-Conscious
Greenguard Gold certified, printed with eco-safe inks
Custom Solutions
From wall murals to custom-cut panels for any space
High Quality
Commercial-grade materials that look stunning to transform your space
Made to Delight
Our goal is making decorating joyful, sustainable, and easy
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about traditional wallpaper and murals application
What's the difference between traditional wallpaper and peel & stick?
Traditional non-woven wallpaper requires paste and offers that authentic “old school” wallpaper experience with superior durability and a more permanent, high-end finish. It’s ideal for spaces where you want lasting beauty and that classic wallpaper look. Peel & stick is faster to install and easier to remove, perfect for renters or those who like to update frequently.
Is traditional wallpaper hard to install for beginners?
With proper prep and our step-by-step guidance, it’s absolutely doable! Take your time, especially on your first panel. The paste-the-wall method we recommend is much easier than old-school paste-the-paper techniques.
What type of paste should I use?
We recommend using a good-quality wallpaper adhesive. Any standard wallpaper paste available at Canadian DIY stores such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, or RONA will work perfectly. Always follow the manufacturer’s mixing instructions for best results.
Can I install traditional wallpaper in bathrooms or kitchens?
Yes, but we recommend using it in powder rooms or areas with good ventilation rather than high-moisture shower areas. For kitchens, it works beautifully on walls away from direct water sources.
How do I remove traditional wallpaper later?
Using proper primer/sizing during installation makes removal much easier. Score the wallpaper, apply a wallpaper removal solution, let it soak, then scrape away. It’s a bit more work than removing peel & stick, but completely manageable.
Where is Wallpaper Online's wallpaper made?
All our wallpapers are Proudly Made in Vancouver, Canada, using commercial-grade materials and eco-certified inks.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Browse our collection of stunning Canadian-made wallpapers and murals and start your next project today. Installation is easier than you think!