Decorating Query

MarySum

Hi, I know this is an old thread, but I'm in need of some advice. We've stripped old lining paper off our living room wall (it was only on two walls) and the wall underneath is pretty lumpy with filler, old patches of paint and plaster, and what looks like very old wallpaper in patches underneath it all (although I'm thinking it could actually be a wall stencil - flat was built in the 30s).

I think we're going to have to hang lining paper on it again, but I'm confused about what we do to the wall first. Some websites seem to recommend putting a coat of primer/sealer over the wall first, is that necessary? Could I just do a watered down coat of emulsion over the bits of filler and plaster that are showing?

ormus

the more preparation you do, the better the end result. only you can decide how much time and effort you wanna put into the job.
sanding down and filling, plus a coat of paint, plus a coat of pva, will all help.
prior to lining paper and the final finish wallpaper.

MarySum

Okay thanks. We're going to paint over the lining paper. Was worried about the bare plaster and the bits of filler sucking up all the wallpaper paste and making the paper bubble/look bad, it all seems a bit confusing...

LandyAndy

Our house had a lot of cracks and damaged walls when we bought it. The answer for me was rake out the cracks, apply polyfilla and smooth with an electric sander. It takes a bit of time but is a much cheaper and less disruptive than having the walls and ceilings plastered.

MarySum

Thanks - sounds like good advice. There aren't many cracks, it's mainly just the surface texture and a few bumpy bits. I was thinking of hanging the Homebase 'paste the wall' lining paper as it seems a lot quicker and we only need about three rolls, do you still need to size the wall with this?