Windows and doors are the obstacles that most people worry about when planning a wallpaper project — but with the right technique, they're straightforward to handle. The key is a methodical approach: hang the panel over the obstacle, make relief cuts to allow the wallpaper to lie flat, then trim precisely to the frame. This guide covers how to wallpaper around windows and doors cleanly and professionally.
The Basic Principle
The technique for windows and doors is the same: hang the full panel over the obstacle as if it weren't there, then cut away the excess. This approach — called "hang and trim" — gives a cleaner result than trying to pre-cut panels to fit around obstacles.
Tools You'll Need
- A sharp craft knife (essential — a blunt knife will tear rather than cut)
- A straight edge or wallpaper smoother
- Small scissors for relief cuts
- A pencil
How to Wallpaper Around a Window
Step 1: Hang the Panel Over the Window
Hang the full panel as normal, allowing it to hang over the window opening. Smooth the section above the window to the wall.
Step 2: Make a Diagonal Relief Cut at the Top Corner
At the top corner of the window frame, make a diagonal cut from the edge of the wallpaper toward the corner of the frame — cutting at approximately 45 degrees. This relief cut allows the wallpaper to fold around the corner of the frame without bunching.
Step 3: Smooth the Side Section
Smooth the section of wallpaper beside the window to the wall. The relief cut allows this section to lie flat.
Step 4: Make a Diagonal Relief Cut at the Bottom Corner
Repeat the diagonal relief cut at the bottom corner of the window frame.
Step 5: Smooth the Section Below the Window
Smooth the section of wallpaper below the window to the wall.
Step 6: Trim to the Frame
Using a sharp craft knife and straight edge, trim the wallpaper precisely to the window frame (architrave). Hold the straight edge firmly against the frame and cut in a single, smooth stroke. A sharp knife is essential — a blunt knife will drag and tear.
Step 7: Press All Edges
Press all trimmed edges firmly with your smoothing tool. Pay particular attention to the corners of the frame where the wallpaper is most likely to lift.
How to Wallpaper Around a Door
The technique for doors is identical to windows, with one difference: a door typically runs from floor to ceiling on one side, so you only need to make relief cuts on the top corner(s) of the door frame.
- Hang the full panel over the door opening.
- Make a diagonal relief cut at the top corner of the door frame.
- Smooth the section above the door to the wall.
- Trim to the door frame with a sharp craft knife.
- Press all edges firmly.
Handling the Section Above a Window or Door
The section of wall above a window or door — between the top of the frame and the ceiling — requires short "filler" panels. These are cut from the same roll, matching the pattern to the panels on either side of the window or door. Measure the height of this section carefully and cut filler panels to fit, adding a small trimming allowance.
Tips for a Professional Result
- Always use a sharp knife: Replace the blade frequently — a sharp blade is the single most important factor in clean trimming around frames.
- Cut against the frame, not away from it: Hold the straight edge against the frame and cut toward it for the cleanest result.
- Take your time at corners: The corners of window and door frames are the trickiest points. Work slowly and make small, precise cuts.
- Press edges firmly: Edges near frames are more likely to lift than edges on open wall. Press them firmly and check them after 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I remove window and door frames before wallpapering?
No — it's not necessary and not recommended. The hang-and-trim technique gives a clean result without removing frames.
What if my window has a deep reveal?
A window with a deep reveal (the recessed area between the frame and the wall surface) can be wallpapered by cutting separate strips to fit the reveal surfaces. Measure each surface of the reveal separately and cut strips to fit.
How do I handle a panel that falls exactly on a door or window edge?
If a panel falls exactly on the edge of a door or window frame, you may be able to use the full panel width on one side and a narrow filler strip on the other. Plan your panel layout before starting to minimise awkward joins at frame edges.
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