Wallpaper Paste Tips: Will it Keep?

In order to achieve a seamless and enduring finish, a well-mixed, high-quality wallpaper paste is essential. Here’s our guide to preparation and storage.

Picture this - you’ve spent months searching for the perfect wallpaper. There are samples strewn across your floor and, after testing every colour, design and brand in the book, you’ve found the one.

Job done, right?

Well, not quite. Wallpapering is about more than choosing the right colour or pattern; it’s a practical art that requires quality tools, including paste.

Almost always, a badly-made paste will lead to mediocre results at best. On the other hand, a well-mixed, high-quality paste will ensure a seamless and enduring finish. Wallpapering is as much a science as it is an art. With the right technique and a little inside knowledge, budding designers and interior enthusiasts can achieve flawless results every time.

Here’s our guide to mixing and storing the perfect paste.

The Perfect Paste

We’ve all heard that a bad designer blames their tools, but this isn’t always the case. In order to achieve the perfect paste, you’ll need to start with a high-quality adhesive mix. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that your walls are clean, dry and free of debris so as not to negate the quality of your paste.

To mix, you'll need a clean bucket, a stirring stick, and of course, your chosen paste. Pour the required amount of cold water into the bucket, following the ratio recommended on the paste’s packaging. Gradually sprinkle the paste powder into the water, stirring continuously for around 30 seconds to avoid lumps.

Aim for a smooth, creamy consistency. Too thick, and it won't spread evenly; too runny, and it won’t adhere properly. Let the mixture sit for the time specified by the manufacturer, usually a few minutes, to allow the paste to fully thicken and activate.

Shelf Life and Storage

Once mixed, the countdown begins. Left uncovered, wallpaper paste will only maintain its adhesive properties for so long. Fortunately, proper storage will extend this shelf life significantly.

When you’re ready to down tools for the day, be sure to pour your paste into an appropriate container or bucket. Cover the container with cling film or an airtight plastic bag, before placing it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Stored correctly, your paste should last for at least 48 hours.

Whilst wallpaper paste shouldn’t ‘go off’ in the first few days of storage, it’s worth checking on the paste before use. If it has been stored for more than a couple of days, look out for any signs of mould or an unpleasant smell, which indicate spoilage.

The Second Time Around

Stored for less than a day or two, wallpaper paste should be ready to use right away. Just give it a quick mix to double check the consistency and you’re ready to go. Sometimes, however, stored paste can take a little convincing.

Before using stored paste, give it a thorough stir. If it seems too thick, you might need to add a little water. However, it's essential to maintain the balance as too much water will dilute the adhesive properties. If the paste appears discoloured, smells odd, or shows any signs of mould, it’s best to discard it and start fresh.

Remember, the effectiveness of your wallpaper application depends heavily on the quality of the paste.

Disposal

With your walls beautifully decorated, all that is left is to take care of the leftover paste. The good news is that this is simpler than you might think.

Most wallpaper pastes, especially those that are water-soluble, can be safely washed down the drain. This is convenient for small quantities or when cleaning tools. However, for larger amounts, it's still a good idea to let it solidify before disposal. To do this, leave the paste exposed to air or add some absorbent material like sand or sawdust. Once solid, it can be disposed of with regular household waste.

Always check the manufacturer's instructions for any specific disposal recommendations, as some types of paste might require different methods.

Remember, a high quality paste serves as the foundation for a great mix. You’ll find all of our pastes, accessories and adhesives here.