×
Back Button

How to Paint Over Wallpaper Liner

Alexander Callos

Wallpaper liner is very similar to wallpaper. It is installed on walls to help cover up flaws or other blemishes. Wallpaper liner is installed horizontally, whereas regular wallpaper is installed vertically. This helps keeps the wallpaper liner stronger and allows it to last longer.

It is easy to paint over wallpaper liner.

After it has been installed on the wall, painting over wallpaper liner is no different than painting over any other type of wallpaper. The paint can give your wall a new, elegant look.

  1. Wipe off all dirt, dust and debris from the surface of the wallpaper liner. Sweep over the entire surface with a clean rag and inspect the wallpaper. Look for loose pieces, particularly at the seams. Verify all the wallpaper is secure to the wall before painting.

  2. Open up a can of primer and pour it in a roller tray. Roll out the primer over the surface of the wallpaper, beginning in one corner of the room and working toward the other. Cover the entire surface of the wallpaper, starting in a "W" pattern before filling in with vertical strokes. Allow the primer to properly dry.

  3. Apply a coat of paint over the primer just like the primer was applied. After it dries (check the can for recommended drying times), apply a second coat in the same manner. Repeat the process for a third coat, if necessary, to achieve the desired color.

  4. Inspect the wall after the final coat has dried overnight and verify it is the proper color. Check that all the seams are covered and there are no chips in the paint.