Decide if you want to cover the entire shelf so no wood is visible or install the liner as "runners," a strip in the middle of the shelf with some wood visible. Measure the shelf area you are covering. Add two to three inches to your measurement if you are covering the entire shelf. This will ensure you have enough paper to fold over and secure the liner.
Measure the shelving paper and cut to the appropriate size. Add 2 to 3 inches to your measurement if you are covering the entire shelf. This will ensure you have enough paper to fold over and secure the liner.
Prepare the shelf surface. Wash the surface with soap and water. Make sure there is no residue on the shelf. Dry the shelf thoroughly.
Slowly peel the back part of the paper liner. Attach the furthest part of the paper to the back of the shelf. Peel back the rest of the liner as you smooth the paper flat against the shelf from back to front. Use an old credit card to smooth out any air bubbles. Run the card along the paper in one smooth motion.
If you are installing runners or if you don't wish to permanently affix the paper to the shelf, remove only part of the liner. Remove a small triangle of liner from each corner of the paper. Remove a long strip of liner from the center of the paper. Use these small places of adhesive to affix the paper to the shelf. This will ease the difficulty when removing the paper.