Wallpaper & Wall Coverings · Accessories & Add-ons
Patterned Wallpaper: What Else You'll Need
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-093 min read
Our pick: the Coloroll M1062 Wallpaper, Blue — the best Patterned Wallpaper we tested, from £12.40.
Adding a patterned wallpaper to your home can transform a room into a striking statement space, but it’s easy to overlook the extra supplies you’ll need for a successful installation and long-lasting finish. This guide explores the often-forgotten accessories and consumables that are frequently required alongside patterned wallpapers, from specialist tools to protective measures – ensuring you're fully prepared before you begin. Consider these essential additions when planning your project, whether you’re working with traditional paper or modern vinyl designs like those from Coloroll, Fine Decor, or Crown.
See the full range in Patterned Wallpaper.
£12.40
Pros
- Extremely well-reviewed budget wallpaper with almost 1,000 ratings
- Blue tone suits living rooms and bedrooms alike
- Dispatched and sold directly by Amazon
Cons
- Design reads quite traditional versus newer trend patterns
£12.50
Pros
- Geometric quartz-inspired pattern with a subtle metallic shimmer
- Well-reviewed Fine Decor collection with a large following
- Suits living rooms and feature walls looking for a modern edge
Cons
- Metallic silver ink can highlight uneven wall surfaces
#3 Pick
Coloroll Feather Blown Vinyl Wallpaper in Grey & White M0923 Full Roll- Grey
£14.79
Pros
- Bold blown-vinyl feather design suits feature walls
- Strong rating from a large review base
- Established Coloroll wallcoverings brand
Cons
- Busy pattern needs careful drop-matching when hanging
#4 Pick
CROWN Mariko Mint/Plum Paper Wallpaper M1552- Mint/Plum
£11.89
Pros
- Chinoiserie-style songbird and floral print suits period and modern homes alike
- Straightforward 53cm pattern repeat makes matching drops easier
- Well-known Crown paper quality at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- Paste-the-paper application needs a pasting table
FAQ
I've bought patterned wallpaper – what’s usually included in the box?
Typically, you’ll find enough adhesive strips to cover a small area, a detailed measuring guide, and a smoothing tool. However, it’s rare for a full roll to include enough adhesive for the entire job, so factor in extra purchase.
What sort of tools will I need beyond what's supplied?
You’ll almost certainly require a sharp utility knife or scissors for precise cutting, and a small plastering brush or smoothing roller to ensure a smooth finish without air bubbles.
I'm worried about getting creases – how can I minimise these?
Use a specialist wallpaper steam iron to gently remove any wrinkles before applying the adhesive; this helps the paper lay flatter. A damp sponge can also be used for targeted wrinkle removal, but avoid over-wetting.
What if I need to cut a piece to fit a particularly awkward corner?
A sharp craft knife and a metal ruler are essential for accurate cuts; marking the wallpaper carefully with a pencil before cutting is crucial.
I've noticed some patterned wallpapers have small pieces of backing paper – what’s this for?
This backing paper protects the printed design during installation and helps prevent the adhesive from sticking to your hands. It should be peeled off slowly as you apply the wallpaper.
What kind of surface does patterned wallpaper adhere to best?
Most patterned wallpapers are designed for use on prepared plasterboard or drywall, but it’s essential to ensure the surface is clean, dry and free from loose particles before applying adhesive.
Do I need special gloves when handling the adhesive?
While not strictly necessary, nitrile gloves offer a good barrier against the adhesive and prevent transferring oils from your hands to the wallpaper.
What should I do if I accidentally tear the wallpaper whilst cutting?
Small tears can often be repaired with a tiny amount of PVA glue applied carefully using a fine brush; allow it to dry completely before continuing.
I’ve heard about ‘booking’ wallpaper – what is this and do I need it?
‘Booking’ involves applying a thin layer of adhesive to the wall, allowing the wallpaper to sit for a short period, and then pressing it firmly into place; this helps with adhesion and reduces bubbles.
What if I make a mistake and need to remove a piece?
Carefully peel back the wallpaper at a 45-degree angle, starting from a corner. Use a plastic smoothing tool to help release any adhesive and protect the underlying surface.
In depth
Patterned wallpaper, particularly the more elaborate designs, often presents unique challenges when it comes to preparation and application. Before commencing any work, ensure you have readily available supplies for surface cleaning – a thorough dusting with a soft cloth, followed by a gentle damp wipe down if necessary – is crucial to remove any ingrained dirt or dust that could compromise adhesion. Similarly, the removal of loose paint or wallpaper paste from existing surfaces needs addressing; a dedicated scraper and appropriate adhesive remover will be essential tools in this preparatory stage.
Consideration should also be given to surface preparation techniques beyond basic cleaning. Depending on the substrate – whether it’s plasterboard, wood panelling, or even previously painted walls – you may require additional treatments. For porous surfaces like new plasterboard, a primer specifically designed for wallpaper application is highly recommended; this will create a consistent base and improve adhesion. Similarly, if dealing with glossy paint, sanding down the surface to achieve a slightly textured finish can dramatically enhance the paper’s ability to grip.
Beyond the immediate preparation of the wall itself, don't underestimate the importance of having suitable tools readily accessible. While a standard wallpaper smoother is essential for achieving a flawless finish, consider investing in a variety of smoothing brushes – long-handled ones are particularly helpful for larger areas – to adapt to different paper thicknesses and patterns. A good quality seam roller will also be invaluable for creating clean, precise joins between strips of wallpaper.
Furthermore, adequate lighting is paramount throughout the entire process. Working with patterned wallpaper often reveals subtle variations in colour and design that can easily go unnoticed in poor light conditions. Ensure you have sufficient illumination to accurately assess your progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure a consistent aesthetic outcome. A portable work light or adjustable spotlights can be invaluable additions to your toolkit.
Don't overlook the importance of protecting surrounding areas. Wallpapering inevitably involves some degree of mess, so laying down protective sheeting – drop cloths are ideal – around the working area is crucial to prevent damage to floors and furniture. Having a supply of masking tape on hand will also be beneficial for securing the wallpaper temporarily and creating neat edges.
Finally, adequate ventilation is key, particularly when using adhesives or removers. Ensure the room is well-ventilated to minimise exposure to fumes and maintain a comfortable working environment. Consider opening windows and utilising a fan if necessary. Having cleaning supplies – such as damp cloths, sponges and appropriate cleaners – readily available for quick clean-ups will significantly streamline the process and prevent build-up of adhesive residue.
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-09.