The Complete Guide to Choosing & Measuring Wallpaper

Wallpaper can transform any space with colour, pattern, and personality. Here’s how to choose, measure, and plan for wallpaper with confidence.

Wallpaper has the power to completely transform a room. It adds colour, pattern, and personality, bringing depth and character to your space in a way that paint alone often can’t. Whether you’re brightening up a hallway, creating a serene bedroom, or making a bold statement in your living room, wallpaper is a creative and rewarding design choice.

That said, it can feel daunting at first. Common questions include:

• How much wallpaper do I need?

• What tools will I need?

• Should I hang it myself or hire a professional?

• What if I order the wrong amount?

Don’t worry — you’re not alone. With a little planning, the process of choosing and measuring for wallpaper can be straightforward (and even fun!). This guide will walk you through each step with confidence.

Step 1: Find Your Wallpaper Inspiration

How to choose the right wallpaper for your room

Begin by deciding which room or wall you’d like to transform. Ask yourself what atmosphere you’d like to create:

• Do you want a calming, restful space?

• Something playful and full of joy?

• Or a bold, colourful statement?

Why ordering wallpaper samples is essential

Once you have a vision, explore our wallpaper collection and order samples. Our generous sample sizes make it easy to see patterns and colours clearly. Tape them to your wall and live with them for a few days — notice how the light changes them throughout the day and which design continues to catch your eye.

Step 2: How to Measure for Wallpaper

Tools you’ll need for measuring wallpaper

Accurate measuring is just as important as choosing the perfect design. To work out how much wallpaper you’ll need, grab a tape measure (or laser measurer), pen and paper. 

Step-by-step wallpaper measuring guide:

1. Measure the width and height of each wall you want to cover (in metres).

2. Multiply width × height to calculate the area (m²) of each wall.

3. Add up the total area for all walls.

4. Subtract the area of large openings such as doors or windows.

5. Add 10–15% extra to allow for pattern matching and trimming.

How many rolls of wallpaper do I need?

👉 A quick note: Our wallpapers come in rolls of either 52cm × 10m or 70cm × 10m, depending on each design. Each product page lists the exact coverage, which will help you estimate how many rolls you’ll need.

While these calculations will give you a good idea of costs and materials, we still recommend having your installer double-check measurements before you place your final order.

Step 3: Why Hire a Professional Installer

Benefits of using a professional decorator

While some DIY enthusiasts love hanging wallpaper, we always recommend hiring a professional decorator. Their experience ensures a flawless finish and can actually save you money (and stress) in the long run.

Why measuring yourself first is still useful

So why measure yourself first? Because having a rough idea of quantities and costs helps you plan your project with confidence. It also makes conversations with your installer smoother and ensures you fully understand the process.

Step 4: Ordering Your Wallpaper

Why order all wallpaper rolls together

Once you’ve chosen your wallpaper and know how much you need, place your order — and order all rolls at the same time. Because our wallpapers are printed to order in England, this guarantees colour consistency across every roll.

Don’t forget to order a little extra

It’s also wise to order a little extra. Mistakes, trimming, or future touch-ups are always easier to handle when you have spare wallpaper from the same print batch.

The Finishing Touch

Enjoy your newly wallpapered room

Now comes the best part: enjoying your transformed room. Wallpaper doesn’t just add pattern and colour; it creates atmosphere, elevates everyday spaces, and brings joy each time you walk in.

Decorating should be an enjoyable process, and with the right guidance, choosing wallpaper can be inspiring rather than overwhelming.

Need help choosing wallpaper? Get in touch

Need a little extra help? We’d love to guide you. Get in touch and let’s make your wallpaper project a beautiful success.