Painting over Wallpaper?

squibbs25

Really silly i know, is it really bad i if i paint over the wallpaper in my sons room rather than strip it? (seen it done on lots of diy programmes )
I know its lazy but if i cheat and just paint over wallpaper it wont take me that long and i can do it while hubby is at work
What do you think?

Squibbs

twink

i have painted over wallpaper lots of times with no bother and it looks fine when dry

Mr_Grumpy_7

It's not a silly thought as even if you strip the wallpaper you may need to hang some sort of lining paper. Whether you can emulsion over the existing wallpaper depends on the type of wallpaper. For example paper with a vinyl type finish, i.e. washable would be a no no. Also, you need to consider the condition of the paper, as the emulsion may soak in and lift the paper. Finally, if the paper has a bright pattern it may need so many coats to cover it that you would be better off started with bear walls. I would suggest starting by just doing a small section that will be hidden. One last thing to consider, once painted, the wallpaper will be much more difficult to strip.

Hope this helps!

alanobrien

Done this many times, its a great way to decorate quickly.
As long as the paper is in good condition the result should be fine.

Go for it.

djohn2002uk

A small warning. If you emulsion it, because emulsion is water based, the paper will bubble quite a bit as the paste underneath becomes wet. Don't panic when this happens because it will shrink back on it's own as it dries. If when it is all dry, any bubbles remain, cut a slit neatly with a razor blade or Stanley knife and sponge it with a wet sponge, pressing it gently and it should push any air out and restick.

before_hollywood

just thought i would add to above- if you can then it is a good idea to do so.
did mine with a tin of paint from wilkinsons (wilko own brand- cost about £6) and a random tin of magnolia (which every house has), added a border, some cheap carpet £4 p/square meter stuff (not the cheapest but nicer than the bargain bucket stuff) and voila, my bedroom took on a whole new look.
cost under £100 including new lighting and stuff and looked a whole other room afterwards (the carpet was dearest cos it is a big room)

tawnyowls

Very easy. Main problem, as djohn2002uk says, is the paper taking up water from the emulsion. Because of that, I find a roller works better because it gives a thinner coat. I found Wickes Mastercoat the best for this, as it seemed to give far fewer bubbles.