How to Install a Wallpaper Mural
Installing a wallpaper mural can transform a room, but good preparation is essential for the best result.
Before you begin, read through the full guide, check your mural panels and make sure the wall is clean, dry, sound and as smooth as possible.
Before You Start
Check that all mural panels are present, undamaged and in the correct order before beginning installation.
If you notice a printing problem, damage or another issue with the mural, please contact hello@muralwonder.co.uk before installing it.
Your wall should be free from:
- Loose or flaking paint
- Dust, dirt and grease
- Holes or cracks
- Raised texture or rough areas
- Damp or moisture
Textured walls can reduce adhesion and may also show through the finished mural, so we recommend smoothing the surface before installation where necessary.
If the wall has recently been painted, allow the paint to fully cure according to the paint manufacturer’s instructions before applying wallpaper.
What You’ll Need
Typical installation tools include a tape measure, spirit level, pencil, sharp utility knife, ruler or straight edge, wallpaper smoothing tool or soft brush, clean sponge and suitable wall covering tools.
For pasted materials, you will also need an appropriate wallpaper paste and application roller or brush.
Peel & Stick murals do not require wallpaper paste.
Step 1: Prepare the Wall
Remove any existing wallpaper and repair holes, cracks or damaged areas.
Sand rough or raised areas until the wall is as smooth as possible.
Clean the wall to remove dust and dirt, then allow it to dry completely.
If the wall is highly porous, newly plastered or otherwise requires sealing, use a suitable wallpaper primer or sealer according to the product manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 2: Check and Plan the Panels
Lay the mural panels out on a clean, dry surface in their correct order.
Check the artwork and panel sequence before applying anything to the wall.
Using a spirit level, mark a straight vertical guideline for the first panel. Do not rely on the corner of the room being perfectly straight.
Accurate placement of the first panel is particularly important because the remaining panels will align with it.
Step 3: Prepare for Your Material
Washable
Our Washable material is a paste-the-wall wallpaper.
Apply suitable wallpaper paste evenly to the wall following the paste manufacturer’s instructions, working on an area slightly wider than the panel you are about to install.
Peel & Stick
Peel & Stick is self-adhesive and does not require wallpaper paste.
Avoid removing the entire backing sheet at once. Start by exposing a small section at the top and gradually remove more backing as the mural is applied and smoothed onto the wall.
Premium
Follow the installation guidance supplied for your Premium mural and use the appropriate wallpaper adhesive if required.
If you are unsure which installation method applies to your order, contact us before installation.
Step 4: Install the First Panel
Position the first panel carefully against your vertical guideline.
Leave sufficient excess material at the top and bottom for final trimming where applicable.
Smooth the panel gently from the centre towards the edges, working gradually down the wall.
Avoid excessive pressure or repeatedly pulling the mural away from the wall during installation.
Step 5: Install the Remaining Panels
Continue with the panels in their correct sequence.
Align each panel carefully with the previous one so that the artwork continues correctly across the wall.
Unless your specific mural instructions state otherwise, align the panel edges edge-to-edge rather than overlapping them.
Regularly step back from the wall and check the alignment before continuing.
Step 6: Smooth and Trim
Once the panels are positioned correctly, gently smooth the surface to remove trapped air and ensure good contact with the wall.
Use a sharp blade and straight edge to carefully trim excess material around the ceiling, skirting board and wall edges.
Take particular care when trimming around sockets, switches and other fittings.
If paste has been used, remove any excess carefully with a clean, damp sponge before it dries.
Avoid excessive rubbing of the printed surface.
After Installation
Allow pasted wallpaper to dry naturally and avoid disturbing the mural while the adhesive sets.
Follow the wallpaper paste manufacturer’s drying instructions before cleaning the mural or placing furniture directly against the wall.
For Peel & Stick murals, check the edges after installation to ensure the material has adhered evenly to the prepared surface.
Tips for the Best Result
Good wall preparation makes a significant difference to the finished mural.
Take your time with the first panel, use a spirit level rather than relying on the wall corner, and check the alignment of the artwork as you work.
Having a second person available can also make larger panels easier to position and handle.
Need Help?
If you have a question about your mural, material or installation before you begin, contact:
We’ll be happy to help with information about your Mural Wonder order.
