June 26, 2025

How to Wallpaper a Media Wall: A Stylish Step-by-Step Guide

Want your telly wall to wow? Wallpapering a media wall is all about prep, precision, and pattern-matching magic. The short answer: measure, prep, stick, smooth—don’t panic! From hiding wires to framing your Media Wall Fire, this guide has you covered. Read on to avoid wallpaper woes and rookie mistakes!

Why Wallpaper a Media Wall?

Adding Texture, Pattern, and Personality

Let’s be honest, plain painted walls can feel a bit... well, dull. If your media wall is the centre of attention, why not give it the star treatment?

Wallpaper adds character—whether it’s a soft textured finish that feels cosy, or a dramatic print that makes your mates say “Wow!”. It’s your chance to bring personality into the space.

Even a simple pattern can transform a basic lounge into something that looks straight out of a designer catalogue.

Creating a Stunning Focal Point

Your telly’s probably the biggest thing in the room—right next to your Media Wall Fire. So why not frame it with something eye-catching?

Wallpaper can draw the eye, create symmetry, and bring a sense of balance to your living space.

Think of it like choosing the perfect outfit for a big event. You’ve got the tech, now give it the backdrop it deserves.

Choosing the Right Wallpaper

Types of Wallpaper Explained

Wallpaper’s not what it used to be. It’s tougher, trendier, and smarter.

Here’s a quick run-down:

Vinyl – hard-wearing, wipeable, and great if you’ve got kids or pets.
Non-woven – easy to put up and easier to take down.
Textured – ideal for that luxury look. Think linen, grasscloth or 3D effects.
Peel-and-stick – less mess, perfect for renters or the commitment-shy.
Digital murals – bespoke designs tailored to your wall size.

Selecting a Design That Complements Your Space

Before you go wild with a jungle print or neon geometrics, take a step back.

What’s your room saying already? Is it bold and modern or calm and classic?

For small rooms, lighter colours and subtle textures can open up the space. Big space? You’ve got freedom to go bold—deep tones, large-scale prints or even photo murals.

Just make sure the wallpaper complements your furniture, lighting and of course, your Media Wall Fire.

How to Calculate How Much Wallpaper You Need

Maths time—but don’t worry, it’s simple.

Measure the height and width of your media wall. Multiply those to get your square metreage.

Check the wallpaper roll’s coverage (usually printed on the label). Divide your wall size by that number.

Add 10–15% extra to cover pattern repeats, mistakes, or the occasional “oops” moment when the dog bumps your ladder.

Tools and Materials for Wallpapering

Your Essential Wallpapering Toolkit

Like any good DIY project, it all starts with the right gear.

Here’s your must-have list:

Tape measure
Spirit or laser level
Wallpaper smoother or brush
Utility knife (with sharp blades!)
Paste brush or roller
Wallpaper paste (match it to your wallpaper type)
Step ladder
Sponge and bucket
Protective dust sheets or drop cloths

It’s also smart to have a mate on hand. Preferably one who owes you a favour and can hold things steady.

How to Wallpaper Your Media Wall: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Wall Surface

Ensuring a Smooth and Clean Surface

If your wall’s lumpy, greasy, or flaking, your wallpaper won’t stand a chance.

Scrape off old paint flakes, sand down bumps, and fill any holes. Wipe everything down with a degreasing cleaner—kitchen walls especially collect all sorts of grime.

Let it dry fully before moving on.

Do I Need to Prime Before Wallpapering?

If you’re working on bare plaster or a repaired wall, yes—prime it.

A primer stops your paste soaking in too fast and gives you a nice, even surface to work with. If your wall is already painted and in decent shape, you might get away without it.

But when in doubt, prime.

Step 2: Planning Your Layout

Finding Your Starting Point

Where you start matters. Most people centre their wallpaper around the TV or Media Wall Fire for balance.

Use a spirit level to draw a vertical guideline. This will keep your first strip perfectly straight—and if the first one’s straight, the rest will follow.

Matching Patterns

If your wallpaper has a repeating pattern, line it up before you hang anything.

Lay out a few strips on the floor and match the motifs so there’s no visual hiccup.

Always plan for the pattern repeat when cutting your lengths.

Step 3: Applying the Wallpaper

Paste-the-Wall vs. Paste-the-Paper

Check your wallpaper instructions—some want you to paste the wall, others the paper.

Paste-the-wall types are easier and less messy. Paste-the-paper needs a bit more space (and patience), as you’ll need to let it soak a bit before hanging.

Hanging the First Strip

Use your guideline. Line up the edge carefully, press gently from top to bottom, and then smooth outwards.

Don’t rush. One good strip is worth more than three sloppy ones.

Smoothing Out Bubbles and Wrinkles

Use a plastic smoother or brush to work from the centre outwards.

Got bubbles? Prick them with a pin and gently flatten them. Wrinkles? Peel back slightly and smooth again.

Step 4: Cutting Around Sockets and Openings

Turn off your electrics first—seriously.

Use a sharp knife and a metal ruler to cut neat edges around plug sockets, light switches, or your Media Wall Fire. Go slow and steady.

Leave a little overlap under the faceplates so everything looks seamless when screwed back in.

Wallpapering Around a TV Mount and Fireplace

Techniques for a Seamless Finish

If possible, remove the TV mount before you start. It makes life a lot easier.

Wallpaper behind the brackets, then reattach later. For wall-mounted fireplaces like a Media Wall Fire, make a paper template first to get a snug, safe fit.

Keep wallpaper away from direct heat, and use heat-resistant adhesive around fireplace edges if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I wallpaper over a painted media wall?

Yes, as long as the paint is in good nick—no peeling or glossy finishes.

A quick sand and wipe-down should do the trick.

Is wallpapering a media wall a DIY job?

Absolutely! With a bit of prep and patience, it’s a weekend project that anyone can try.

Cutting around outlets and matching patterns takes practice, but it’s not rocket science.

How do I clean wallpaper on a media wall?

Vinyl wallpaper? Easy—use a damp cloth and mild soap.

Textured or paper types? Stick to gentle dusting or a barely damp cloth. Always test a small spot first.

Conclusion: Transforming Your Media Wall with Wallpaper

Wallpapering a media wall might feel like a big job—but it’s surprisingly doable, even for DIY newbies.

It’s a creative project that brings real impact. With the right tools and a bit of planning, you’ll give your media wall a look that’s worthy of a spotlight.

Whether you're framing your favourite films or gathering round the Media Wall Fire, you’ll have a space that’s warm, stylish, and uniquely yours.

So grab your smoother, pick your pattern, and let your wall steal the show.

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