How to patch lining paper?

SCowley88

The ceiling in our lodger's bedroom has been brought down recently (it was lath and plaster, not very safe). The builders have left us a lovely smooth, plastered ceiling which will be painted very soon.

However in order to bring the ceiling down they had to cut off the top inch or so of lining paper from the walls themselves. We obviously now need to redecorate but I'm not sure what to do. Can we just patch up the lining paper? Reapply a 2 inch strip at the top and just sand the edge down to meet the current paper? Use a fine surface filler? Or remove all the lining paper and then re-put it up (I really don't want to do this as doubt my abilities to hand lining paper well).

The whole room is due to be repainted so this is just about getting the best surface for painting on.

The fact that it's the lodger's room (a close friend) makes it a bit more difficult. I'd like her room to be out of action for as little as time as it is as I don't want to wear her patience.

Suggestions would be gratefully received!

wallbash

I would find it far simpler to renew all the lining paper than just 'patch'
But we are talking about 2 inchs way above eye level.
Why not have a go at patching ? you have very little to lose. The result may not suit everyone, but its cheap and quick.

Good Luck

DRP

How about coving?

SCowley88

I did think about that but none of the other rooms have it and will be more of a hassle to install than taking down old lining paper and putting up new paper - as you can tell I'm a. lazy and b. fairly DIY inept

wallbash

Now we have established you are lazy but very honest !
What about an old fashioned wallpaper border , many cheap on ebay
Get a non textured one.

Reece_

Putting a strip in, if done well and filled well would blend in fine, I'd still say putting up lightweight coving would be just as quick but more cost.

Orford

Paper a strip, but rather than a straight cut along the bottom edge, tear it instead. That way the new piece will blend with the old where it overlaps. Once fully dry, feather the ragged edge further with fine sandpaper. 2 coats of emulsion you'll be hard pushed to see the join.

SCowley88

That sounds like the kind of bodge I'm after! I went in there today and the ceilings are so high that you can barely see the tears as it is!

Next job is to strip the paint off a short section (500mm) of the bannister (handrail only) so now researching chemical strippers and am terrified. The joys of home ownership.

aggypanthus

place the new strip over the original paper, overlapping it, then with a sharp knife, cut through both layers, this will give you 2 perfect matching edges to paste together.

missbiggles1

Another vote for a border - much the simplest solution.

loracan1

Don't go for a border against the ceiling unless the wall is absolutely level. You don't realise how wavy a ceiling can be until you're at the top of a ladder applying a border against it. I'd go for patching up and painting.