It is frustrating when you spot pale lines between your wallpaper drops. Many people assume the installation is faulty, the seams have opened and the wall is peeking through, but that is not always the case.
Dark wallpapers, even brightly coloured ones, are made with a white paper backing. If you look at a roll from the top/edge on, you will see that white core and white edges to the wallpaper. When the edges are not disguised, they can stand out once the paper is on the wall.
All of my wallpapers are printed onto a non-woven wallpaper base which contains a small amount of polyester fibres, meaning it is more stable and doesn't shrink as much as 100% paper wallpaper does. However this guide is to help, regardless of which company's paper you are using.
What causes white wallpaper edges to show on dark and bright coloured wallpaper?
Wallpaper absorbs moisture from the paste during installation. As it dries, it can contract slightly, although this is less of an issue with my non-woven wallpaper base. However, depending on the base substrate, there can be a tiny amount of shrinkage which can pull the seams back just enough to reveal the white backing along the edges. On dark wallpapers, the contrast is far more noticeable, which is why those thin white lines can suddenly appear.
The good news is that this is preventable and fixable.
How can I stop white wallpaper edges from showing?
There is a simple trick that professional installers rely on; colour the edges of the wallpaper roll before you hang it! By tinting the white edge to match the design, any slight shrinkage during drying will not reveal a pale line.
What should I use to colour the wallpaper edges?
You have several options. Water based felt pens, crayons, watercolour paints and acrylics all work well. Water based products are usually the safest choice because any excess can be wiped away before it dries. Avoid oil based inks because they can bleed or stain.
How do I choose the right colour?
Focus on the background shade of your wallpaper rather than the motifs. Aim for the closest match you can find. If you are unsure, choose a slightly darker tone rather than a lighter one. A darker edge blends more naturally once the paper is on the wall.
How do I colour the edges using paint?
If you are using watercolour or acrylic paint, keep the wallpaper tightly rolled. This makes it easier to reach only the edges without touching the printed surface.
Apply the paint along the exposed edge while the roll is still closed. Test a small hidden area first to check that the pigment does not bleed. Allow the edges to dry completely before you begin hanging the wallpaper.
How do I colour the edges of wallpaper using crayons or felt pens?
If you prefer crayons or felt pens, unroll the wallpaper gradually. Sit comfortably, place the roll vertically between your legs and work along the edge with light pressure.
If you are using a crayon, rotate it as you go so you do not create a ridge that could transfer colour onto the front of the paper. Once you have finished one side, roll it back up and repeat the process on the opposite edge.
How can I fix white seams that have appeared on my wallpaper after installation?
If the wallpaper is already on the wall, you can still disguise the seams.
Coloured pencils or felt pens
Choose a pencil or pen that matches the background colour. Gently run it along the seam to tint the exposed white line. Always test in a discreet spot first.
Watercolour or ink
For a softer blend, use a fine brush and a little watercolour or ink. Paint along the seam, then wipe away any excess with a slightly damp cloth. Finish by drying the area with a lint free cloth so the colour settles neatly.
What is the best way to avoid white seams on my wallpaper in future?
Preparation is everything. Colour the edges before you hang the wallpaper so any natural shrinkage will not reveal the white backing. If you notice seams after installation, a careful touch with pencils, pens or watercolours can make them disappear. With these simple steps, you can achieve a smooth, professional finish that keeps your wallpaper looking its best.
April x
Shop my collection of wallpapers here. And shop wallpaper samples here.