How to Repair a Wallpaper Tear

How to repair a wallpaper tear

• 1

  If the tear is relatively small, you have only to apply more glue to the back and, with your brush, smooth it back down. However, if the tear is large or a piece is actually missing, you will have to cut a section out and replace the section with the tear.

• 2

  Gather the items needed for the project and place them close to the tear. Unroll the roll of wallpaper and cut off a piece larger than the tear but small enough so you don't waste a lot.

• 3

  Match the new wallpaper to the pattern of the torn wallpaper. Lay the new wallpaper over top of the torn wallpaper and, with the razor knife, cut through both layers of wallpaper. This makes two exact cuts: one to remove the torn wallpaper and an exact cut to replace it exactly. With the scraper, remove the old, torn wallpaper, being careful not to gouge the wall or tear the remaining wallpaper.

• 4

  Wet your wallpaper if it is prepasted. If not, spread the wallpaper glue over the back of the new piece of wallpaper. Now carefully match the cut of the wallpaper exactly. With the wet towel, begin smoothing the new wallpaper, beginning from the center of the swatch to the outer edges. This assures you the swatch stays in place. Finish the piece off by smoothing more with the brush. Make sure you smooth from the middle out.

• 5

  Allow the swatch to dry and sit back and gaze at your handiwork.