How to
How to wallpaper around plug sockets and light switches
Quick answer
Turn the power off at the consumer unit, loosen the faceplate a few millimetres, hang the paper over it, make a small cross cut over the box, trim the flaps to just inside the plate edge and tuck them behind before re-tightening. Never let wet paste or metal tools touch live parts; if in doubt use a qualified electrician.
You will need
- Insulated screwdriver
- Snap-off knife
- Smoother
Step by step
- Isolate power Switch off the circuit at the consumer unit and check it is dead.
- Loosen faceplates Undo screws a few millimetres – do not disconnect wires.
- Hang over the fitting Hang the drop as normal over the faceplate.
- Cross cut Cut an X over the fitting from corner to corner.
- Trim and tuck Trim the flaps and tuck behind the plate, then retighten and restore power once dry.
Designs to try
Geometric
Stafford Diamond Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Chinoiserie
Kerrigan Garden Birds Wallpaper
3 colourways · 64 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Botanical
Rossiter Scattered Leaf 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
Tropical
Cambrey Rainforest Wallpaper
3 colourways · 64 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Designer · Chinoiserie
Trerice Willow Court Wallpaper
4 colourways · 91 cm repeat
From £189.80 per roll
Botanical
Magnolia Leaf Sprig Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Mid-Century
Hammond Atomic Star Wallpaper
3 colourways · 53 cm repeat
From £44.20 per roll
Questions & answers
Do I need to turn off the electricity?
Yes. Isolate the circuit at the consumer unit before loosening any faceplate.
Can I use metallic-effect wallpaper near sockets?
Our metallic looks are printed effects, but always keep wet paste away from electrical fittings.
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 internal and external cornersHow to wallpaper a ceilingHow to wallpaper a stairwell or hallwayHow to prepare walls for wallpaper (sizing, priming and lining)All guides