THE HANG®: Prep, Prime, and Line

Now that you have chosen the perfect wallcovering, it's time to take the first step in hanging it. 

Welcome to the second installment of our new how-to video series, The Hang®. Here, Phillip Jeffries aims to make the installation process faster, easier, and more fun for both the designer and installer. Here you'll learn best practices and tips for making your next project picture-perfect!

Now, let's join Phillip Jeffries President, Philip Bershad, and master installer, Dennis Delpome, as they share the 3 P’s for ensuring the perfect installation. Knowing how to prep the wall surface will make hanging easier and smoother and result in a more beautifully finished room. This is the first step when hanging wallcovering!

Tip #2: Prep, Prime, and Line
Watch the video to learn more about how Phillip Jeffries hangs wallcovering and our best tips to prep the walls for a fabulous install. Plus, don't miss the one thing you DON'T want to do when hanging wallcovering. 

How To Hang Wallcovering - What You Really Need To Do To Prep
Before hanging that first panel of wallcovering, it's important to PREP THE WALL by following these three important steps listed below. Every space and every job is different so it's important know all the step needed to prepare a surface. We know that having the perfect surface for hanging wallcovering will lead to a more fun project with less stress!

1. Prep: Spackling over holes, blemishes and nailheads ensures a smooth surface. In some instances, wall tape may even be necessary. Ultimately, the smoother the wall, the more smoothly the hanging process will go.
   
   
2. Prime: Seal all of that wonderful prep work using a liquid wallcovering primer like Zinsser Sheildz (never a paint primer). Applying primer will also create a surface ideal for wallcoverings to grip onto, making the installation process easier.    
         
3. Possibly Line: When a wall is past the point where prep and priming won’t make it the perfect wallcovering-ready surface, Dennis recommends using a liner paper. Additionally when moisture content is an issue, it’s also a good time for a liner
   This is recommended especially for reflective wallcoverings in order to avoid any blemishes showing through.
   
   
   "I always like to say: There's never a bad reason to use a liner! You can put a liner under everything whether it's going to help the wall or not. I know people who put a liner under everything: A liner will smooth things out." - Dennis Delpome
   

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Hanging Wallcovering
For beginners to the most seasoned professions, always remember this crucial tip from Dennis: NEVER use a paint primer on your wall when hanging wallcovering. It's a simple yet essential rule to follow for a flawless installation. See #3 above for what you SHOULD use to prep the wall.

Shop The Video
Grasscloth wallcoverings shown: Manila Hemp