Enhance Your Fireplace with Beautiful Wallpaper Surround

• Enhancing your fireplace with a beautiful wallpaper surround is a fantastic way to add warmth and style to your space without the hassle and expense of a major renovation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a stunning look:

 1. Choose the Right Wallpaper:

• Opt for wallpaper that complements the aesthetic of your room and coordinates with your existing decor. Consider the color scheme, pattern, and texture to ensure it creates the desired ambiance around your fireplace.
• Think about the purpose and function of the room. Is it a bedroom, living room, or dining room? Different rooms have different vibes and aesthetics, so choose a wallpaper that complements the room's purpose. Identify the style you want to achieve in the room. Do you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more traditional, vintage feel? Consider the existing furniture and decor in the room and choose a wallpaper that harmonizes with the overall style.

 2. Measure the Space:

• Measure the Height Use a tape measure to measure the height of the wall from floor to ceiling. Measure in several places, as walls may not always be perfectly straight. Record the highest measurement on your note. Multiply the height of the wall by the total length of the wall to calculate the total area of the wall in square feet. Repeat this process for all walls you plan to wallpaper.
• If the wallpaper you have chosen has a pattern repeat, you will need to take this into account when calculating the amount of wallpaper you need. To do this, add the pattern repeat to the width of the wallpaper and then divide the total length of the wall by this number to get the number of strips needed.
  

• It's always a good idea to add a little extra to your calculations, just in case of mistakes or miscalculations. Add 10% to the total square footage to allow for waste.   

 3. Prepare the Surface:

• Clean the wall surface thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt, or grease. Smooth out any imperfections and make sure the surface is completely dry before proceeding. Once the old wallpaper has been removed, clean the walls thoroughly with a mixture of warm water and mild soap. Rinse the walls with clean water and allow them to dry completely.
• Fill any holes or cracks in the walls with spackling compound, using a putty knife. Once the compound has dried, sand the surface smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. If there is existing wallpaper on the wall, it must be removed before hanging new wallpaper.      

 4. Cut the Wallpaper:

• Measure and cut the wallpaper to fit the dimensions of the fireplace surround. Be sure to leave a little extra length at the top and bottom to accommodate adjustments during installation. Measure the length of the wall from top to bottom, adding a few extra inches to allow for trimming. Use a tape measure to mark the desired length of the wallpaper on the back side of the wallpaper sheet. 
  
• If your wallpaper has a pattern, align it properly before cutting. Match the pattern at the top and bottom of the wallpaper sheet to ensure a seamless look. Use a level or a plumb line to make sure the pattern is straight. Use a sharp utility knife or a wallpaper cutter to cut along the marked line. Apply gentle pressure and make a smooth, straight cut. Be careful not to cut too far into the wallpaper, as it may damage the pattern or design.
  

 5. Apply Wallpaper:

• Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials handy. This includes the wallpaper, adhesive or wallpaper paste, a wallpaper smoother or brush, a utility knife, a sponge, and a bucket of clean water.
• Measure the height of the wall and add a few extra inches for trimming. Use a straight edge and a utility knife to cut the wallpaper into strips of the desired length. Label each strip to keep them organized. Starting from the top of the wall, carefully position the wallpaper strip against the wall, ensuring it is aligned properly. Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles using a wallpaper smoother or brush. Continue hanging subsequent strips, matching the patterns as necessary.
• Once the wallpaper is hung, use a utility knife to trim any excess at the top and bottom of the wall. Wipe off any excess adhesive or paste with a damp sponge and clean water. Allow the wallpaper to dry completely, following the manufacturer's instructions.

 6. Position and Smooth:

• Carefully position the wallpaper onto the wall, starting from one corner of the fireplace surround and working your way outward. Use a wallpaper smoothing tool or a clean, damp sponge to smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles as you go. Using a wallpaper smoother or brush, gently smooth out the wallpaper from the center outwards, working to eliminate any air bubbles or wrinkles. Be careful not to overstretch the wallpaper, as this can cause it to tear or distort.
  
• Once the wallpaper is positioned and smoothed, use a sharp utility knife to carefully trim any excess wallpaper at the top and bottom of the wall. Be sure to cut along a straight edge to achieve a clean and precise cut. 

• Continue positioning, smoothing, and trimming each subsequent strip of wallpaper, making sure to align the patterns and designs properly. Work carefully and patiently, taking your time to achieve a seamless and professional-looking finish.                

 7. Trim Excess Wallpaper:

• Once the wallpaper is applied and smoothed out, use a sharp utility knife or scissors to trim any excess material at the top, bottom, and sides of the fireplace surround.
• You will need a sharp utility knife or a wallpaper trimming tool, a straight edge or ruler, and a cutting mat or protective surface. Use a straight edge or ruler to measure the exact length or height you want the wallpaper to be. Mark this measurement lightly with a pencil or removable marker. 
• Place the straight edge or ruler along the marked line and carefully guide the utility knife or wallpaper trimming tool along the edge. Apply firm, even pressure to ensure a clean and straight cut. Be cautious not to press too hard to avoid damaging the wall surface underneath. Gently peel away the excess wallpaper that you have cut off. Dispose of it properly.

 8. Finishing Touches:

• Once the wallpaper is dry, step back and admire your beautifully enhanced fireplace surround. You can further enhance the look by adding decorative accents such as a mantel, candles, or artwork.
• Regularly clean your wallpaper using a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge. This will help maintain its appearance and longevity. Choose furniture, curtains, and accessories that complement the colors and patterns of the wallpaper. This will create a cohesive and harmonious look in the space.  If there are any areas where the wall color shows through or where the wallpaper has been cut too close to the wall, touch it up with matching paint to create a seamless look.