Cutting Tools
You will need a razor or utility knife to cut the paper. Buy plenty of blades, because dull ones will create tears. Also have on hand a metal straightedge and large utility shears or scissors.
Layout Tools
You’ll need a measuring tape and, depending on your project, a plumb bob or a long carpenter’s level for aligning vertical lines. A short level is handy for use in small spaces and to check the straightness of the paper as you work. Plumb bob
 | Measuring tape
 | | Removal Tools
To remove existing wallpaper, depending on its type, you’ll need a broad knife, a sanding block (or scarifying tool), and a tool for helping release the old wallpaper—either a steamer, a canister-style garden sprayer (available for rent), or a sponge. Enzyme-based gel wallpaper remover goes on with a roller; it is the least messy alternative. Pasting Tools
For pasting, use a short-napped paint roller with a paint tray, or a pasting brush with a bucket. A whisk works well for mixing dry paste. For pre-pasted paper, you’ll need only a water tray. Short-napped paint roller
 | Water tray
 | |
Smoothing Tools
For smoothing, work with a wallpaper smoother, a rag, a sponge, or a high-quality smoothing brush. Whichever tool you choose, it should allow you to apply pressure evenly yet feel whether the wallpaper is smooth or uneven. With textured or embossed paper, always use a smoothing brush. After the paper has dried for about 15 minutes, smooth with a smoother or sponge; using a seam roller (on conventional wallpapers only) helps flatten seams and make them unnoticeable.
Copyright Sunset Publishing Corporation
|
