How to Paste William Morris Wallpaper (Not the Wall): A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Whether you're adding timeless elegance to a study or a touch of natural romance to a bedroom, William Morris wallpaper can completely transform a space. If you've chosen a traditional wallpaper (like many Morris & Co. designs) that requires pasting the paper rather than the wall, this guide walks you through the process — step by step — so you can hang it beautifully, without stress.

Let’s dive in.

🎨 First, Why “Paste the Paper” Instead of the Wall?

Many Morris & Co. wallpapers are printed using traditional block or surface printing techniques. These often come unpasted and require the classic method of applying adhesive directly to the paper. This allows time for the wallpaper to “book” or relax, preventing bubbling or shrinking once on the wall.

🧰 What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather your tools:

• William Morris wallpaper rolls

• Pre-mixed wallpaper paste (check it’s suitable for traditional wallpaper)

• Paste brush or roller

• Smoothing brush or wallpapering brush

• Plumb line or spirit level

• Sharp knife or snap-blade cutter

• Seam roller

• Sponge and bucket of clean water

• Pasting table (or a clean, long surface)

• Tape measure

• Pencil

• Step ladder

🪜 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Wall

• Fill any holes or cracks, sand smooth, and wipe down surfaces.

• Prime if needed (especially on porous or dark-colored walls).

• Make sure the surface is clean and dry.

• Turn off electricity and remove outlet covers and switch plates.

Step 2: Measure & Cut Your Strips

• Measure the wall height and add 4–6 inches extra at the top and bottom for trimming.

• Use a straight edge to cut the first strip.

• Match patterns carefully when cutting additional strips — Morris patterns are known for large repeats and intricate symmetry.

Step 3: Mark a Vertical Guide

• Using a plumb line or spirit level, draw a straight vertical line from ceiling to floor to align your first strip. Walls are rarely perfectly straight!

Step 4: Apply Paste to the Paper

• Lay the first strip face down on your pasting table.

• Generously apply paste using a brush or roller, covering edge to edge.

• Fold the paper “book-style”: bring each end toward the middle (paste sides in), without creasing. This lets the paper rest and absorb moisture evenly for 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Hang the Wallpaper

• Unfold the top half of your booked strip and align it with your vertical guide.

• Smooth the paper gently from the center out using a wallpaper brush to remove air bubbles.

• Unfold the bottom half and do the same.

• Trim the top and bottom with a sharp knife and straight edge.

Step 6: Seam & Smooth

• Use a seam roller to gently press down edges — but don’t overdo it or you’ll push out paste or distort the design.

• Wipe any excess paste with a clean, damp sponge immediately.

Step 7: Repeat with Care

• Match the pattern carefully as you hang each new strip.

• Always allow for pattern repeats when cutting.

• Take your time — Morris designs are all about rhythm and harmony, and getting those repeats right is key to the overall effect.

🧽 Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the booking time. It’s essential for preventing bubbles or shrinking.

• Keep your tools clean and always remove excess paste right away.

• If using vintage or reproduction papers, always check the manufacturer’s instructions, as methods can vary slightly.

• Work in natural daylight if possible, to see the pattern clearly.

🌿 The Final Look

Once complete, your Morris wallpaper will bring a warm, handcrafted atmosphere to your space, full of botanical beauty and artistic heritage. Whether it’s Strawberry Thief, Willow Bough, or Brer Rabbit, your home is now wrapped in a piece of history — and you hung it yourself!

Need help choosing which Morris pattern suits your space best? Or wondering how to pair it with paints and textiles? Drop a comment or get in touch — We’d love to help.