How to
How to wallpaper a ceiling
Quick answer
Ceilings are best tackled by two people with a stable platform rather than a single ladder. Hang drops across the shortest width, starting parallel to the main window, support the paper with a spare roll or broom as you smooth it, and choose a non-directional or small-scale pattern.
You will need
- Work platform
- Paste roller on extension pole
- Smoother
- Snap-off knife
Step by step
- Set up a platform Use a work platform or two trestles and a board.
- Mark a guide line Mark a straight line one roll width from the starting wall.
- Paste in sections Paste a strip of ceiling slightly wider than one drop.
- Hang with support Concertina the paper loosely and support it as you smooth along the line.
- Trim at walls Trim neatly where ceiling meets wall or coving.
Designs that work on ceilings
Non-directional patterns, small geometrics, dots, stars and trellis look the same from every angle and suit ceilings and cloakrooms.
Designs to try
Geometric
Stafford Diamond Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Trellis
Edmund Bamboo Trellis Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Geometric
Caldwell Diamond Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Spots & Dots
Edmund Painted Spot Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Geometric
Mayfair Interlocking Circle Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Geometric
Hadley Arch Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Geometric
Everly Triangle Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Trellis
Wyndham Bamboo Trellis Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Questions & answers
Is wallpapering a ceiling hard?
It is harder than walls because you are working overhead. A non-woven paste-the-wall paper is lighter and easier to handle.
Should I paper the walls and ceiling?
In small rooms like cloakrooms, papering both in the same design creates a cocooning, jewel-box effect.
More guides
How to hang wallpaper: a step-by-step guide for beginnersHow to measure a room for wallpaperHow to remove wallpaper (including old stubborn paper)How to wallpaper around windows and doorsHow to wallpaper around plug sockets and light switchesHow to wallpaper internal and external cornersHow to wallpaper a stairwell or hallwayHow to prepare walls for wallpaper (sizing, priming and lining)All guides