Wallpaper Patch

Tools:

ladder
triangle
paste brush
utility knife
screwdriver
clean rag
smoothing brush
scissors
seam roller
small square
putty knife
wire brush
soft sponge
rubber gloves
safety glasses
wallpaper adhesive
wallpaper remover
spackle
painter’s tape
leftover wallpaper

1. If necessary, remove any cover plates in the area to be patched.

2. Position a piece of matching wallpaper against wall, match up the pattern and secure it temporarily with painter's tape (figure A).

3. Press paper into seams of woodwork with a triangle for a tight fit and cut the paper with a sharp razor.

4. If necessary, you may need to make two patches to get the patterns lined up on both sides. When everything looks good, cut the patch to fit. Use a triangle and the utility knife for a nice even cut (figure B).

5. Tape all the seams down with painter's tape and step back and appraise your patch. If happy, remove the tape and get ready to install the patch permanently.

6. Since your patch is probably a bit larger than the original hole, remove the wallpaper along the borders. Use wallpaper remover and a putty knife to get the old paper off. Score the old paper with your utility knife so the remover soaks in. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves while removing paper.

7. Clean up the wall with a damp sponge. Fill in any holes with spackle.

9. Position the paper on the wall, being sure to match up the patterns. Smooth it out with a smoothing brush (figure D).

10. Use a seam roller to get a nice, tight seam.

11. Repeat the process with a second patch if necessary. To reveal the utility box, cut an X into the paper over the box and fold the flaps back. Reattach the cover plate.