Lining paper as underlay: The secret ingredient for a perfectly smooth finish

Are you trying to achieve that flawless, professional look on your walls? Look no further! We have the secret ingredient that will revolutionise your home decor game: lining paper. It is a versatile and effective solution that can transform any wall, creating a perfectly smooth finish. This wallpaper can cover cracks, dents, or uneven surfaces.

In addition to providing an extra layer of protection, lining paper acts as a barrier between your walls and the final decorative layer, ensuring a flawless finish every time. Moreover, it does not only hide imperfections but also adds durability, preventing future damage and helps keeping your walls looking fresh for longer.

Easy to apply and cost-effective, this wallpaper is a DIY enthusiast's dream. With our step-by-step guide, you'll be able to not only achieve professional results, but also without the need for expensive tools or a professional decorator.

Say goodbye to the frustration of uneven surfaces and hello to perfectly smooth walls. Transform your home with lining paper and witness the difference for yourself. Start on your wall transformation today!

What is lining paper?

Lining paper is designed to create a smooth and even surface on your walls. It is not only made from a thick, fibrous material but it can be applied directly to the wall before painting or wallpapering. This white wallpaper comes in various thicknesses, known as "grades". Therefore, with higher grades offer more coverage and durability.

Plus, the lining paper is primarily meant to hide the wall's cracks, dents and even surfaces. Likewise, it acts as a filler, providing a smooth base for the final decorative layer. This paper is used for painted and unpainted walls.

Benefits of using lining paper

Undoubtedly, using this paper offers numerous benefits that make it a popular choice among homeowners and decorators alike. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Hides imperfections: One of the main benefits of lining paper is its ability to hide imperfections on your walls. Whether you're dealing with cracks, dents, or uneven surfaces, lining paper can provide a smooth and flawless base for your final decorative layer.
2. Adds durability: Secondly, lining paper acts as a protective barrier for your walls, adding an extra layer of durability. It helps prevent future damage, such as cracks and peeling paint, keeping your walls looking fresh and well-maintained for longer.
3. Creates a smooth finish: Thirdly, lining paper creates a perfectly smooth surface on your walls, allowing for a professional finish. This smooth base ensures that your wall paint or wallpaper adheres evenly, resulting in a seamless and flawless look.
4. Easy to apply: Lining paper is relatively easy to apply, making it a great option for DIY enthusiasts. With a few basic tools and some patience, you can achieve professional results without the need for expensive equipment or a professional decorator.
5. Cost-effective: Finally, compared to other wall repair methods, such as plastering or sanding, lining paper is a cost-effective solution. It is affordable and readily available, making it a budget-friendly option for transforming your walls.

How to prepare your walls for lining paper

Before hanging this paper, it's essential to prepare your walls properly. Proper preparation ensures that this paper adheres well and provides a smooth and even surface. Follow these steps to prepare your walls for this paper:

1. Clean the walls: Start by removing any dirt, dust, or grease from the walls. Use a mild detergent and warm water to wash the surfaces thoroughly. Rinse with clean water and allow the walls to dry completely before proceeding.
2. Repair imperfections: Inspect the walls for any cracks, holes, or damaged areas. Fill these imperfections with a suitable filler or wall putty, following the manufacturer's instructions. Use a putty knife or scraper to smooth the filler and ensure a level surface. Allow the filler to dry completely before sanding lightly to achieve a smooth finish.
3. Sand the walls: Lightly sand the entire wall surface to create a slightly rough texture. This helps the lining paper adhere better. Use fine-grit sandpaper and work in circular motions, being careful not to over-sand or damage the wall.
4. Apply a primer: To improve the adhesion of the lining paper, apply a suitable primer to the walls. This will also help seal the surface and prevent any stains or discolouration from bleeding through. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.

As your walls are properly prepared, you're ready to stick the paper. Follow our step-by-step guide for a smooth and successful application.

Step-by-step guide to hanging lining paper

Hanging this paper may seem like a daunting task. However, with the right approach and a little patience, you can achieve professional results with the help of a few wallpaper tools. Follow these steps to hang this paper on your walls:

1. Measure and cut: Start by measuring the height of your wall and cut the lining paper into strips that are slightly longer than the wall height. Allow for a few extra centimetres at the top and bottom for trimming.
2. Mix the wallpaper paste: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to mix the wallpaper paste. Ensure that the paste has a smooth and lump-free consistency for easy application.
3. Apply paste to the wall: Use a brush or roller to apply a thin and even layer of wallpaper paste to the wall. Start from the top and work your way down, ensuring complete coverage. Pay extra attention to the edges and corners of the wall.
4. Hang the lining paper: Carefully position the first strip of lining paper onto the pasted wall, aligning it with the top and one edge of the wall. Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles using a wallpaper brush or a clean, damp sponge. Continue hanging the remaining strips, slightly overlapping each one to ensure a seamless finish.
5. Trim excess paper: Once all the strips are hung, use a sharp knife or scissors to trim any excess paper at the top and bottom of the wall. Take care not to cut into the wall or the surrounding surfaces.
6. Smooth and seal: Use a wallpaper brush or sponge to smooth out the lining paper, ensuring a secure and even adhesion. Pay attention to the edges and corners, making sure they are well stuck down. Wipe away any excess paste with a damp sponge.
7. Allow to dry: Leave the lining paper to dry completely before proceeding with the next steps. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for recommended drying times.
8. Sand and fill: If necessary, lightly sand the dried lining paper to achieve a perfectly smooth finish. Fill any gaps or imperfections with a suitable filler and allow it to dry before sanding again.

Congratulations! You've successfully hung this white plain paper on your walls. Now it's time to paint or wallpaper over this paper to complete the transformation.

Painting over the paper

The moment the paper has dried, you can either paint or install wallpaper over it. Painting over this paper is a popular choice as it provides a smooth and even surface for your paint. Here are the steps to achieve a beautifully painted finish:

1. Prepare the surface: Ensure that the lining paper is clean and free from any dust or debris. Wipe it down with a damp sponge or cloth to remove any residual paste or dirt. Allow the surface to dry completely.
2. Apply a primer: Before painting, it's recommended to apply a suitable primer to the lining paper. This helps improve the adhesion of the paint and ensures a longer-lasting finish. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.
3. Paint the lining paper: Once the primer is dry, you can start painting the lining paper. Use a high-quality paintbrush or roller and apply the paint evenly, following the natural grain of the paper. Apply multiple coats if necessary, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.
4. Finish with a topcoat: For added durability and a professional finish, consider applying a topcoat over the painted lining paper. This will protect the paint from wear and tear and provide a smooth and washable surface. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.

Lastly, painting over this paper allows you to achieve a beautifully painted finish while enjoying the benefits of a smooth and even surface.

Conclusion

Whether you're a seasoned decorator or a DIY enthusiast, taking the extra step and choosing to install lining paper can transform your walls. The lining paper can help to hide imperfections, enhance adhesion, and give your chosen wallpaper the best foundation to truly shine. So before you reach for your favourite wallpapering tools, you can consider lining paper as your silent partner in achieving that smooth, professional-grade finish.

We hope this article helped you discover more about lining paper. We look forward to welcoming you at BRICOFLOR, your expert for walls and floors.