If you’ve ever stared at outdated wallpaper and wished for a quick refresh, you’ve likely asked yourself: Can you paint over wallpaper? The good news—yes, you can. Painting over wallpaper is often faster and easier than removing it, especially if the wallpaper is firmly attached and in good condition. However, it requires careful prep work to ensure a smooth, durable finish that won’t peel or bubble.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before painting over wallpaper—when it’s okay, how to prep properly, and which paints and tools deliver the best results.
When It’s Okay to Paint Over Wallpaper
Painting over wallpaper isn’t always the best option, but in many cases, it can save time and reduce mess. Before grabbing your paintbrush, check a few key things:
- Wallpaper condition: The paper should be well-adhered with no peeling edges, bubbling, or loose seams.
- Surface type: Vinyl or glossy wallpaper may need extra prep to ensure paint adheres properly.
- Wall integrity: If the wallpaper is covering cracked or damaged walls, removing it may be better.
- Moisture exposure: Avoid painting over wallpaper in humid areas like bathrooms, as moisture can cause peeling.
If your wallpaper passes these checks, painting can be a practical solution.
Pros & Cons of Painting Over Wallpaper
Before you commit, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of this approach.
Pros:
- Less messy: No need to deal with scraping and soaking wallpaper glue.
- Time-saving: A weekend project compared to the lengthy removal process.
- Wall protection: Keeps older drywall intact, especially if you suspect removing wallpaper might damage it.
Cons:
- Permanent result: Once painted, removing wallpaper later becomes much harder.
- Possible seams: Without careful prep, wallpaper seams can show through.
- Risk of bubbling: Poor adhesion or moisture can lead to bubbling or peeling over time.
If you’re okay with the trade-offs and want a clean, quick update, painting might be your best bet.
Step-by-Step: How to Paint Over Wallpaper
The secret to a flawless finish lies in the preparation. Follow these steps carefully for the best results.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have everything ready:
- Painter’s tape
- Drop cloths
- Putty knife
- Spackling compound
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Primer (oil-based preferred)
- Paintbrushes and rollers
- High-quality interior paint
2. Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Dust, grease, and dirt can prevent primer and paint from adhering properly. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to gently clean the wallpaper. Allow it to dry completely before moving on.
3. Repair Any Damaged Areas
Inspect the wallpaper for imperfections:
- Lifted seams: Apply wallpaper adhesive with a small brush and press them flat.
- Small tears or holes: Fill with spackling compound, let it dry, and lightly sand the surface.
- Rough patches: Sand smooth to ensure even coverage.
This step helps create a flawless surface before priming.
4. Seal the Wallpaper with Primer
This is the most crucial part of painting over wallpaper. A high-quality oil-based or shellac primer seals the wallpaper and prevents moisture from loosening the adhesive underneath.
- Use a roller for large sections and a brush for corners and edges.
- Apply one even coat and let it dry fully before painting.
- Avoid water-based primers—they can cause the wallpaper to bubble.
Once primed, your wall is ready for paint.
5. Paint in Thin, Even Coats
Now comes the fun part—adding color.
- Use two light coats of paint rather than one thick layer.
- Allow each coat to dry fully (usually 4–6 hours) before applying the next.
- Use a roller for broad areas and a brush for edges and corners.
Light sanding between coats can help achieve a smoother finish, especially if your wallpaper had a textured pattern.
Choosing the Right Paint for Wallpaper
The right type of paint makes a big difference in how your walls look and last.
- Finish: Satin or semi-gloss paints work best because they’re easy to clean and hide minor imperfections.
- Type: Latex or acrylic paints are preferred for most interiors, but always apply them over an oil-based primer.
- Color: Choose lighter tones if your wallpaper has dark patterns—dark wallpaper may require multiple coats for full coverage.
If you’re considering tackling other rooms, many of these long flight essentials—like patience, planning, and the right tools—apply here too when taking on home improvement projects.
How to Deal with Textured Wallpaper
If your wallpaper has a raised pattern, the texture might show through your paint. To minimize this:
- Apply a thin layer of joint compound over the textured areas using a putty knife.
- Let it dry completely and sand it down for a smooth surface.
- Wipe away any dust before applying primer.
This extra step adds time but ensures a sleek, professional-looking result.
When to Remove Wallpaper Instead
Sometimes, removing wallpaper is the better long-term choice—especially if you plan to stay in your home for years. Consider removing the wallpaper if:
- It’s peeling or bubbling in multiple spots.
- You notice mildew or water damage behind it.
- The wallpaper has multiple layers.
- You want to switch to textured wall finishes or wallpaper again later.
Removing wallpaper may take longer, but it allows for a truly fresh start and more paint flexibility in the future.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned DIYers can run into trouble when painting over wallpaper. While the process may seem straightforward, overlooking key steps can lead to peeling, bubbling, or a patchy finish that ruins your hard work. Here’s a closer look at common pitfalls—and how to avoid them for a flawless result.
1. Skipping Primer
Primer is one of the most important steps when painting over wallpaper. Without it, paint may not stick properly, causing it to peel or flake over time. The primer acts as a barrier, sealing the wallpaper and adhesive underneath while providing a smooth surface for paint.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Always using a high-quality oil-based or shellac primer.
- Letting it dry completely before applying paint.
- Testing a small area first to ensure proper adhesion.
A single coat of primer can make the difference between a professional-looking wall and one that starts peeling within weeks.
2. Using a Water-Based Primer
Water-based primers might seem easier to clean and less odorous, but they’re a poor choice when painting over wallpaper. The moisture in these primers can reactivate the wallpaper glue, causing bubbling, lifting, or seams to loosen.
What to do instead:
- Stick with an oil-based primer that seals moisture away from the wallpaper.
- Ensure good ventilation while using it to minimize fumes.
- Wait at least 24 hours before applying the first paint coat for best results.
This small adjustment helps your paint adhere evenly and prevents frustrating peeling later on.
3. Ignoring Seams and Edges
Wallpaper seams may look flat at first, but paint can accentuate even the smallest ridges. Unsealed edges or lifted seams often become visible once paint dries, breaking the smooth look you’re aiming for.
To fix this:
- Use wallpaper adhesive to glue down loose seams.
- Apply spackling compound over visible edges, then sand them smooth once dry.
- Prime these areas carefully before painting to prevent uneven absorption.
Spending extra time on seam repair ensures that your final paint job looks seamless and professional.
4. Applying Thick Paint Layers
Thick coats of paint might seem like a shortcut, but they often trap moisture, leading to uneven drying or bubbling. In the long run, they can even cause cracks and peeling.
To prevent this:
- Apply two or more thin coats instead of one thick one.
- Allow each coat to dry fully (at least 4–6 hours) before adding another.
- Lightly sand between coats if necessary for an ultra-smooth finish.
Thin layers create better coverage and allow the paint to cure evenly—resulting in a more durable finish that won’t easily chip or bubble.
5. Rushing the Prep Work
Prepping the surface can feel tedious, but it’s the foundation of any great paint job. Skipping cleaning, sanding, or priming steps often leads to visible flaws, uneven texture, or paint that doesn’t adhere properly.
Take your time by:
- Cleaning the wallpaper thoroughly with mild soap and water.
- Repairing all holes, seams, and imperfections.
- Giving the primer ample time to dry before painting.
Remember, the quality of your preparation determines the quality of your finish. Even a few extra hours spent on prep can save you days of touch-ups later.
Tips for a Professional Finish
A few pro tips can help you get that flawless, long-lasting look:
- Use painter’s tape to protect trim and baseboards.
- Paint in good lighting to catch imperfections early.
- Ventilate the room during painting and drying.
- Test your paint color on a small area first to ensure even coverage.
Maintaining Painted Wallpaper
Once your project is done, you’ll want your walls to stay beautiful for years. Follow these easy maintenance tips:
- Dust regularly using a microfiber cloth or soft brush attachment.
- Spot clean with a damp cloth—avoid soaking the wall.
- Avoid harsh cleaners that can strip paint.
- Touch up scratches with leftover paint when needed.
With proper care, your newly painted wallpaper can look just as good as a freshly painted wall.
Final Thoughts
Painting over wallpaper can be a smart, budget-friendly way to update a room—if you do it right. The key is prep, patience, and proper materials.
If the wallpaper is smooth, firmly attached, and in good shape, a few coats of primer and paint can completely transform your space. But if it’s peeling or damaged, removing it first is worth the effort.
By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be ready to give your home a fresh new look—without the stress of wallpaper removal.
