Repairing Painted Wall Paper on Plaster

Painted Wallpaper

• Friezes, murals and borders are historic touches in an older home. The painted wallpaper rolls or borders may be antique or modern reproductions. Your painted wallpaper may be a handcrafted project that you did yourself. A "wall-fill" is a section of paper that covers a portion of wall. It is cut in strips from the standard roll of wallpaper. The homeowner may purchase a prepainted wall design, mural or border. These works of art may be done after the paper has been applied to the walls of the home.

Damaged Paper

• Everyday wear, water, fire and accidental tearing or marring of the painted wallpaper will cause damage. Tears, scratches, dirt, scuff marks and other damage to small sections are commonplace in any home.

Simple Repairs

• The simplest repairs to damaged, painted wall paper may be a gentle wash with a damp sponge and warm water. Lightly brush the area with a soft bristle brush to remove any dust from the paint. Start with a small corner of the sponge and gently dab at the soiled area. Dab a small amount of wallpaper paste that has been developed for plaster to a piece of painted wallpaper that has been torn away from the wall. Apply watercolor paints to the damaged paint to cover any missing paint chips or cracks in the original paint.

Severe Damage

• If the paper is vintage or a one-of-kind piece of artwork it is best to hire a professional to do skilled repairs. Dampen and slowly peel away the paper to prevent damage to the plaster. A professional may photograph or photocopy an undamaged portion of the painting. He will photocopy or hand paint the mural or design reproduction piece. Remove the damaged wallpaper and apply the reproduction piece to the plaster. The edges of the replacement paper must be torn to allow it to blend into the original paper. An artist, if available, is the best choice to paint the plain replacement portion of the paper, particularly for a vintage period home.