How to Install Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper in 5 Steps (Complete Guide)

You've finally found the perfect mural — congratulations! Now comes the step many people dread: installing peel-and-stick wallpaper. Good news: if you can hold a level and smooth with a credit card, you can install a Décor Imprimé mural without professional help.

In this complete guide, we'll walk you through how to install peel-and-stick wallpaper in 5 simple steps, with tips and tricks from our team for a flawless result the first time.

What You'll Need

• Your Décor Imprimé mural or peel-and-stick wallpaper
• A level (or the level app on your phone)
• A ruler or pencil for markings
• A credit card or a squeegee (smoothing tool)
• A utility knife or sharp scissors
• A clean, dry cloth

Step 1: Prep Your Wall

Wall prep is the most important step — it accounts for 80% of your final result. A poorly prepped wall will lead to bubbles, premature peeling, or wrinkles.

• Clean the wall with a slightly damp cloth to remove dust and grease. Let it dry completely (at least 2 hours).
• Check your paint: the surface should be smooth, matte, or satin. Very glossy or textured paint can reduce adhesion.
• Fill any holes or cracks with spackle and sand smooth. Wait until the spackle is completely dry.
• Ideal temperature: between 18°C and 25°C (64°F–77°F). Avoid installing in very humid conditions or extreme cold.

Step 2: Measure and Mark a Level Line

This step is often skipped — and it's the number one cause of crooked murals!

• Measure the height of your mural and lightly pencil-mark your starting point (usually at the top of the wall).
• Using your level, draw a light horizontal line across the full width. This line will be your guide for the first panel.
• If your mural is made up of several panels, number them in order before you begin.

Step 3: Hang the First Panel

This is the moment of truth! Take your time — peel-and-stick wallpaper repositions easily if you make a mistake.

• Peel back about 6 inches (15 cm) of the backing on the first panel. Don't peel it all off at once.
• Align the top edge of the panel with your level line, leaving about 1 inch (2 cm) of excess at the top if you want a clean trim.
• Smooth from top to bottom and from the center outward with your squeegee or credit card to push out air bubbles.
• Gradually peel the backing away as you work your way down, smoothing as you go.

Pro tip: if a bubble appears, gently peel back that section and reposition it. Don't force it — you won't damage the wall or the mural.

Step 4: Align the Remaining Panels

Most Décor Imprimé murals are made up of 2 to 4 panels. Alignment is crucial for a seamless look.

• Position the second panel so its pattern lines up exactly with the first. Take the time to align it properly before sticking it down.
• Overlap or butt seam: follow the specific instructions for your mural model (noted on the packaging).
• Smooth each panel the same way: top to bottom, center to edges.

Step 5: Trim the Excess and Finish Up

Once all the panels are up, take care of the finishing touches for a professional result.

• Using your utility knife and a ruler, trim the excess at the top, bottom, and sides, following the edge of the wall or ceiling.
• Go over the whole surface one last time with the squeegee to firmly secure the edges.
• Step back and admire the result!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you install peel-and-stick wallpaper over existing wallpaper?

It's not recommended. The existing wallpaper can peel away under the weight of the new mural. Remove the old wallpaper or install the mural directly onto painted drywall.

How long does a Décor Imprimé self-adhesive mural last?

Our murals are designed to last for years with proper wall prep. The adhesive doesn't leave any residue when removed.

Can you reuse the mural after peeling it off?

Décor Imprimé murals use a high-quality repositionable adhesive. You can peel and reposition them once or twice, but adhesion decreases slightly with each handling.

Will the mural damage my paint?

No, as long as your paint is more than 4 weeks old and in good condition. Peel slowly at a 45° angle to avoid any risk.

Ready to Transform Your Space?

Now that you've mastered the installation, all that's left is to choose your design! Explore our collection of peel-and-stick murals and wallpaper — hundreds of exclusive designs by Canadian artists, made in Canada and delivered right across the country.

Looking for inspiration by room? Check out our guides:

• Bedroom wall decor
• Living room wall decor
• Kitchen wall decor
• Home office decor