Easy Guide: How To Wallpaper Your Cabinets Like A Pro

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey guys! Are you looking to give your kitchen or bathroom a fresh, new look without breaking the bank? One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to revamp your space is by wallpapering your cabinets. Yeah, you heard right! Wallpaper isn't just for walls anymore; it can transform your cabinets from drab to fab in just a few simple steps. So, grab your tools, choose your favorite wallpaper, and let's dive into this super simple guide on how to wallpaper your cabinets like a total pro.

What You'll Need

Before we get started, let's make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Trust me, being prepared will make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Wallpaper of your choice: This is where you get to express your creativity! Choose a wallpaper that complements your existing décor and reflects your personal style. There are tons of options out there, from bold geometric prints to subtle, textured designs. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Measuring tape: Accurate measurements are crucial for a professional-looking finish. You don’t want to end up with too much or too little wallpaper.
Pencil: For marking your measurements on the wallpaper and cabinets.
Scissors or a sharp utility knife: For cutting the wallpaper to size. A utility knife with a fresh blade will give you the cleanest cuts.
Smoothing tool or plastic smoother: This helps to remove air bubbles and ensure the wallpaper adheres smoothly to the cabinet surface. A credit card or a plastic spatula can work in a pinch.
Primer (optional but recommended): Applying a primer to your cabinets before wallpapering can improve adhesion and prevent the wallpaper from peeling off later. Especially important for glossy or non-porous surfaces.
Wallpaper adhesive (if using non-pasted wallpaper): Some wallpapers come pre-pasted, but if yours doesn’t, you’ll need to apply adhesive to the back of the wallpaper.
Clean cloths or sponges: For cleaning the cabinet surfaces and wiping away any excess adhesive.
Sandpaper (optional): If your cabinets have a glossy finish, lightly sanding them can help the primer and wallpaper adhere better.

Step-by-Step Guide to Wallpapering Your Cabinets

Alright, let’s get down to business! Follow these steps, and you'll have beautifully wallpapered cabinets in no time. Remember, patience is key, so take your time and enjoy the process.

1. Prepare the Cabinets

Cleaning is Key: Start by giving your cabinets a thorough cleaning. Use a degreasing cleaner to remove any dirt, grease, or grime. This is a crucial step because wallpaper won't stick well to a dirty surface. For particularly stubborn spots, a bit of elbow grease might be necessary.
Sanding (if needed): If your cabinets have a glossy finish, lightly sand them with fine-grit sandpaper. This will create a slightly rough surface that the primer can grip onto. Wipe away any sanding dust with a clean, damp cloth.
Priming: Apply a thin, even coat of primer to the cabinet surfaces. Primer helps the wallpaper adhere better and prevents it from peeling. Let the primer dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes a few hours.

2. Measure and Cut the Wallpaper

Accurate Measurements: Use your measuring tape to measure the dimensions of the cabinet surfaces you want to wallpaper. Write down these measurements to avoid mistakes. Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy!
Cutting the Wallpaper: Transfer your measurements to the back of the wallpaper. Use a pencil to draw cutting lines, leaving a little extra (about an inch or two) on each side. This extra wallpaper will allow for adjustments and a clean, finished edge. Cut the wallpaper along the lines using scissors or a utility knife. A sharp utility knife and a metal ruler will give you the cleanest, straightest cuts.

3. Apply the Wallpaper

Applying Adhesive (if needed): If you're using non-pasted wallpaper, apply wallpaper adhesive to the back of the cut wallpaper piece. Follow the adhesive manufacturer's instructions for the best results. Be sure to spread the adhesive evenly and avoid applying too much, which can cause bubbles.
Positioning the Wallpaper: Carefully position the wallpaper piece onto the cabinet surface. Start at one edge and gradually smooth the wallpaper onto the surface, working your way to the opposite edge. Make sure the wallpaper is aligned correctly before pressing it firmly into place.
Smoothing Out Bubbles: Use your smoothing tool to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles. Start in the center of the wallpaper and work your way outwards, applying gentle pressure. If you encounter stubborn bubbles, you can try pricking them with a needle and then smoothing them out.

4. Trim the Excess

Precise Trimming: Once the wallpaper is securely in place, use your utility knife to trim away any excess wallpaper around the edges of the cabinet. Use a straight edge as a guide for clean, straight cuts. Be careful not to scratch the cabinet surface with the knife.
Finishing Touches: After trimming, use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess adhesive or residue from the cabinet surface. This will give your cabinets a clean, professional finish.

5. Reassemble and Enjoy

Putting it All Back Together: If you removed any hardware (knobs, handles, etc.) from the cabinets, now is the time to reattach them. Make sure they are securely fastened.
Admire Your Work: Step back and admire your newly wallpapered cabinets! You've successfully transformed your space with a simple and affordable DIY project. Congrats!

Pro Tips for a Flawless Finish

Okay, guys, here are a few extra tips to ensure your wallpapering project turns out amazing. These are the little things that can take your cabinets from good to wow!

Choose the Right Wallpaper: Consider the style of your kitchen or bathroom and choose a wallpaper that complements it. Also, think about the durability of the wallpaper. For high-traffic areas, opt for a scrubbable or wipeable wallpaper.
Test a Small Area: Before wallpapering all of your cabinets, test a small, inconspicuous area first. This will allow you to see how the wallpaper looks and how well it adheres to the surface. It’s always better to test than to commit to an entire project only to find out you don’t like the results.
Work in a Well-Lit Area: Good lighting is essential for a successful wallpapering project. Make sure you have plenty of light so you can see what you're doing and avoid mistakes.
Take Breaks: Wallpapering can be tiring, especially if you're doing a large area. Take breaks as needed to avoid fatigue and maintain focus. A well-rested DIYer is a more precise DIYer!
Consider Peel and Stick Wallpaper: For an even easier application, consider using peel and stick wallpaper. This type of wallpaper doesn't require any adhesive and can be repositioned easily, making it perfect for beginners.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best preparation, you might run into a few hiccups along the way. Here’s how to handle some common issues:

Air Bubbles: If you have persistent air bubbles, try pricking them with a needle and smoothing them out. You can also use a heat gun on low setting to gently warm the wallpaper and help release the trapped air.
Peeling Wallpaper: If the wallpaper starts to peel, reapply adhesive to the back and smooth it back into place. For stubborn areas, you might need to use a seam roller to apply extra pressure.
Tears or Rips: If you accidentally tear or rip the wallpaper, you can try patching it with a small piece of matching wallpaper. Cut the patch slightly larger than the tear and carefully position it over the damaged area. Smooth it out and trim any excess.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Wallpapering your cabinets is a fantastic way to update your space without spending a fortune. With a little patience and these simple steps, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will transform your kitchen or bathroom. So go ahead, get creative, and give your cabinets the makeover they deserve! Happy wallpapering!