Can You Paint Over Wallpaper (And Make It Look Good)?

If you're yearning to give your apartment a vibrant makeover but have hit a wall (literally!) with existing wallpaper, you might be wondering if you can bring out the paint? But can you really paint over wallpaper, and make it look good, too?

The short answer is, yes! While there are some wallpaper types that won't take to paint, in many cases, it's definitely possible to paint over wallpaper. We'll help you identify whether your wallpaper is suitable for painting, prep the area, and provide plenty of painting pointers in this comprehensive guide. So let’s get started – because there should be no stopping you from transforming your apartment into something truly stunning!

How to Paint over Wallpaper

When Should You Paint Over Wallpaper?

Most of the time, people opt to remove wallpaper instead of painting over it, but there are many reasons why that might not be an option in specific cases:

• If the wallpaper is firmly adhered and the walls are in good condition underneath, removing it could risk damaging the drywall. In such cases, painting over might be the safer option.
• If the cost of removing the wallpaper is prohibitively high, and painting over is a viable option.
• Your landlord has given you permission to paint but does not want any wallpaper removed.

Want to see what a great job of painting over wallpaper looks like? Check out this fantastic video from Refresh Home Improvements:

How Do I Know if I Can Paint Over the Wallpaper I Have?

There are a few ways to test your wallpaper, including the tape test, a spot test, and simply identifying the material the paper is made from. We'll discuss both tests below, but here are some quick tips about paper type:

• Vinyl wallpaper is generally not suitable for painting due to its slick surface.
• Fabric-backed wallpaper might absorb paint unevenly and show through.
• Non-woven and primed wallpaper are more likely to be compatible with painting.

Tape Testing Wallpaper

1. Apply a piece of painter's tape to a hidden area of the wallpaper and press firmly.
2. Remove the tape quickly and check for any residue or lifted wallpaper. If the wallpaper peels, painting is not recommended.

Spot Testing Wallpaper

1. Choose an inconspicuous spot and clean the wallpaper thoroughly.
2. Apply a primer specifically designed for wallpaper and let it dry completely.
3. Apply a small amount of your chosen paint and observe how it covers and adheres.
4. Let the paint dry completely and assess the results. Look for signs of bubbling, peeling, or unevenness.

How to Paint Over Wallpaper

You’ve made the decision and you’re ready to paint over your wallpaper. Here’s how to get started.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Always gather the necessary materials before starting any project. For wallpaper painting, we recommend personal protective equipment, including:

• Hat
• Eye goggles
• Disposable vinyl or rubber gloves
• Long-sleeved clothing

Since you’ll be working with some strong chemicals, you want to make sure you’re protected.

Step 2: Pick Out the Correct Primer

Never skimp on the primer. After all, you want to make sure all of your hard work isn’t done in vain.

Stick with an oil-based primer and make sure to spread it across the wallpaper before you start painting. Make sure you are patient in letting it dry, as oil-based tends to dry slower. Thankfully, the reason you’re opting for this choice is that it does a better job of blocking any of the colors or designs of the wallpaper from showing through.

Step 2: Check Your Seams & Perform Repairs

Paint works best on smooth surfaces, so always check the seams of your wallpaper before you start painting. If you feel anything peeling back, trim it away. You can always add compound putty and sand it to smooth things out later on.

Any obvious problem spots that arise after your cleaning should be addressed before painting. It’s easy enough to cut loose pieces of wallpaper away or curling edges.

Step 4: Clean Your Walls

Before you start priming, you’re going to want to prepare your entire space. For the walls, make sure you prep by cleaning them thoroughly.

Remove any dirt or dust that may have been collecting over the years by taking a damp rag and running it across your walls. Then, tape off the trim and any other areas you don’t want to be painted. Cover any other areas with plastic.

Step 5: Prime Your Wallpaper

You’ve picked your primer, you’ve prepped your area, and now, it’s time to get started. Once you have a completely smooth surface, you can begin by priming your wallpaper.

Again, your oil-based primer will take some extra time to dry. But, shop around. Today you can find a quick-drying oil-based primer that can help cut down on some of the prep time.

Step 6: Begin Painting

Once your primer has completely dried, it's time to start painting your wallpaper. This step allows you to add your personal touch to your living space, transforming your walls into your own work of art. Make sure to use quality paint and follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.

Tips for Painting on Wallpaper

1. Check seams closely: Look for repairs in the seams, where they are easily hidden.
2. Spend extra time on prep: Don't rush through repairing and cleaning.
3. Use an oil-based primer
4. Invest in the right tools: Gloves, a brush & roller, paint tray, paint mixer, ladder, mask.

Looking for a New Apartment?

If you’re looking to liven up your space, you can now rest assured that painting over wallpaper is an option.

And when you’re ready to find your next apartment and start with a fresh wallpaper canvas, take our quiz to find the best apartment based on your rental needs!

FAQs

What Kind of Paint Do You Use Over Wallpaper?

Oil-based or latex paint works best for painting over wallpaper. Make sure you apply an oil-based primer all over it before you get started, though.

Do You Have to Remove Wallpaper Glue Before Painting?

Since you’ll want to have a smooth surface to paint, you’ll want to ensure all of the glue has been removed beforehand. Look for the best wallpaper remover you can find to help make the job easier.

Is It Easy to Peel Off Wallpaper?

Newer wallpaper is made to be removable, making it very easy to peel off. Thankfully, the older counterpart is still quite simple if you’re interested in removing wallpaper and painting a fresh coat!

Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper?

While you can put wallpaper over wallpaper, you shouldn’t do this more than one time. The sealant for wallpaper begins to weaken with more layering, which means it is more likely to peel back faster.