Tools & Materials Needed
- Wallpaper or wall mural panels (cut slightly longer and wider than wall height and width)
- High-quality adhesive (unless using self-adhesive peel-and-stick)
- Measuring tape and spirit level
- Pencil for marking guidelines
- Smoothing tool or squeegee
- Straight edge or steel ruler
- Sharp utility knife with new blades
- Clean, damp cloth or baby wipes
- Drop cloth for floor protection
Preparation
1. Prep Walls: Start with a smooth, clean, dry wall. Fill holes, sand rough spots, and wipe away
dust. Let new paint cure for 2 weeks before wallpapering.
2. Mark Guidelines: Use a spirit level and pencil to draw a vertical plumb line for the first panel.
Measure and mark where each panel will go, accounting for recommended overlap widths.
Step-by-Step Installation – Overlap & Double Cut Method
1. Apply Adhesive (For Non-Adhesive Wallpaper/Murals)
Spread paste evenly across the area slightly wider than your first panel’s width. For peel-and-stick, skip this step and peel the backing to expose the adhesive.
2. Hang the First Panel
Align the first wallpaper or mural panel with your vertical guideline. Make sure there’s a 5cm (2 inches) overhang at the top. Also, allow a small overlap at the wall edges. Smooth from the center outward to remove air bubbles.
3. Hang the Second Panel with Overlap
Apply adhesive as needed for the next panel (or peel backing for self-adhesive). Hang the second panel, overlapping the first by 5cm (2 inches) along the seam. Ensure the design pattern aligns perfectly on the overlap. Smooth down thoroughly, and adjust as needed before adhesive sets.
4. Overlap Corners and Obstacles
For inside corners, overlap mural seams by at least 1/8 inch. For edge corners, overlap by a full inch and trim for a snug fit. Make relief cuts at sockets, windows, doors, and corners. This helps the mural lie flat and keeps the pattern continuous.
5. Double Cut the Overlap
After positioning the panels and letting the glue set, take a straight edge and a sharp utility knife. Cut through both layers in the middle of the overlap, about 2.5 cm (1 inch) from each panel edge. Remove the cut ‘waste’ from both panels, leaving a perfectly matched seam. Press the edge back into place, adding glue if needed.
6. Trim Edges and Finish
Trim excess wallpaper or mural material along the top, bottom, and sides. Use a sharp blade to make it flush with ceilings, baseboards, and corners. Wipe away glue residue immediately with a damp cloth or baby wipe to avoid visible marks.
7. Smooth and Inspect
Work along all seams with your smoothing tool to remove any bubbles and ensure tight bonding. Adjust any misalignment before adhesive has fully dried. Check all edges and trims for a flawless finish.
Pro Tips for Overlap & Double Cut Wallcovering Installations
- Always use a fresh blade for each seam—dull blades can tear paper and cause uneven joins.
- Overlap seams are key for vinyl and commercial wallpapers. These materials can shrink a bit over
time. The overlap stops visible gaps and keeps a consistent look. - For wall murals with intricate images, overlap ensures artwork for professional results.
- Leave some overlap at the top and bottom of the wall. Trim after positioning to ensure full
coverage, even on uneven surfaces. - When moving around obstacles like doors, windows, or outlets, cut carefully. Smooth the edges
gently to prevent stretching the material. - For self-adhesive murals, it’s best to overlap. Press firmly to bond the seams, and double cut like
with regular wallpaper. - Put a drop cloth under your work area while trimming. This protects the floors from paste and
paper scraps.
FAQ
Can this technique be used for all wallpaper and wall mural materials?
Yes. Overlap and double cut work well for non-woven, peel-and-stick, commercial, and specialty wallpapers. This method ensures tight, invisible seams and keeps the pattern matched perfectly.
What is the usual overlap width?
Most professionals use 2–5cm (1–2 inches), per manufacturer guidelines. Always follow product instructions for exact measurements.
Why overlap and double cut?
Overlap prevents gaps or shrinkage between panels. It also hides seams and ensures a smooth pattern flow. Double cutting achieves precise, invisible joins—even through thicker materials.
Should panels be overlapped at both horizontal and vertical edges?
Yes. Overlap slightly at all edges, especially the top, bottom, and corners. This helps protect against uneven walls and shrinkage.
Expert Installation or DIY?
DIYers can also achieve great results with the overlap-double cut technique. Here are some steps to follow: use quality tools, and take your time to align and trim accurately.
Conclusion
As XWALLX, we use the overlap and double cut technique for wall mural and wallpaper installations. This method is the best choice for all materials. Follow these holistic steps for flawless, long-lasting results- beautiful, seamless walls every time
