DIY Network

Photographic Wallpaper From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-706

Ahoy, ye matey! Land ho!

With two growing young men sharing the same living quarters, Tim and Natalie South need help creating separate spaces that show each ones unique personality. First the DIY To the Rescue crew start by adding some scenic photographic wallpaper to each room of the boy's spaces. Christopher gets a jungle theme, while TJ’s room gets an island backdrop.

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Materials:

photographic wallpaper panels
wallpaper glue (comes with panels)
Paintbrush
wallpaper brush
wallpaper roller
sponge / cloth
utility knife
level
pencil
bucket
paint stirrer

Steps:

1. First mark the walls for each panel (Figure A). The panels come in six 4’ x 4’ pieces, 3 for the top and 3 for the bottom. Then, using a level mark registration lines at the height of each wallpaper panel (Figure B). This will help line up the panels straight and even on the walls.

Figure A

Figure B

2. The glue that comes with the wallpaper is in powder form, so add some powder, a little at a time, to the water, stirring constantly (Figure C). The glue has a watery consistency, but make sure to get all of the lumps out before starting (Figure D). Once it is mixed up let it set up for about 5 minutes.

Figure C

Figure D

Figure E

3. Paint the glue onto the back of the panel with long even strokes, making sure to cover the whole back surface. Allow the pasted panel to sit for one minute (Figure E).

4. Bring the first panel to the wall and line it up with the level registration line (Figures F & G).

Figure F

Figure G

5. Use a wallpaper brush to smooth out the panel from the center to the edges (Figure H). It is important to cover the edges and corners with plenty of glue to keep the wallpaper from peeling along the panel's edges (Figure I).

Figure H

Figure I

6. Once all of the big bubbles and bumps are smoothed out, use a wallpaper roller to flatten it further (Figure J). Then, using a damp sponge or cloth, wipe away any excess paste from the surface of the wallpaper.

7. Continue adding panels until the whole wall is covered. Make sure to cut openings for any outlets and/or light switches (Figure K). And, be sure to line up the pattern as you go.

Figure J

Figure K