Quick answer
Wallpaper is hung over openings and trimmed in place: relief cuts at the corners of windows and doors, the paper smoothed into the casing and trimmed with a straightedge. Outlet and switch covers come off (with power off) and the paper is cut inside the box opening. Fixtures such as sconces and mirrors are best removed before installation.
Key points
- Cover plates come off; the paper is cut to the box opening.
- Window and door casings are trimmed in place with fresh blades.
- Pattern should continue correctly above and below openings.
- Fixtures are easier and cleaner to paper behind when removed.
Windows
A strip is hung over the window, the paper is cut diagonally toward the corners of the casing, then smoothed in and trimmed. Above and below the window, short pieces must continue the pattern exactly as if the wall were solid. Window returns (recessed sides) can be papered or left painted — decide in advance.
Doors
Door casings are handled the same way. The narrow strip above a door is a common place where pattern mismatches appear when the layout is not planned. The last seam of a room is often placed in the short section above a door for that reason.
Outlets and switches
- Power to the circuit is turned off.
- Cover plates are removed.
- Paper is hung over the box, then cut inside the box opening.
- Covers go back on over the paper.
Some homeowners paper the cover plates to match; that is optional.
Vents, thermostats and mini-splits
Vent covers are removed and reinstalled. Thermostats and ductless mini-split heads are usually left in place, so the paper is cut carefully around them. See the mini-split cut-out in our portfolio.
Sconces, mirrors and towel bars
| Item | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Sconces | Removed by an electrician or with power off; box left accessible |
| Mirrors | Removed so paper runs behind |
| Towel bars, hooks | Removed; anchors refitted after |
| Built-in cabinets | Stay; paper trimmed to them |
What to prepare
- Clear access to all walls and outlets.
- Decide whether returns and cover plates get paper.
- Arrange removal of heavy mirrors or wired fixtures if needed.
- Include photos of every opening when you request an estimate.
FAQ
Do you remove outlet covers?
Yes. Covers are removed with power off, the paper is cut to the box opening and the covers are reinstalled.
Should window returns be wallpapered?
Either way works. Papered returns look wrapped; painted returns frame the window. Decide before installation.
Can you wallpaper around a mini-split unit?
Yes. The unit usually stays in place and the paper is cut carefully around it.
