Patch or reglue a torn section of wallpaper so the repair blends in and stays stuck down.
WP-01Check the damage and choose your repair methodLook closely at the tear. If it's a small flap that's lifted but not missing, you can just reglue it. If wallpaper is actually missing or badly crumpled, you'll need to cut a patch from spare paper instead. Decide now, as it changes what you need to buy.
WP-02Gather matching wallpaper and toolsFind leftover wallpaper from the original roll, ideally with a visible pattern repeat you can match. If you have none, take a photo of the pattern and batch number and try to source an offcut or full roll. Get your tools together before you start so the paste doesn't dry out mid-job.
WP-03Clean and tidy the torn edgesGently peel back any loose or curling paper around the tear so you can see the full extent of the damage. Brush away dust and old paste with a dry cloth. Don't pull at the paper too hard — you want clean edges, not a bigger hole.
WP-04Small tear: glue the flap back downFor a lifted flap with no missing paper, apply a thin line of seam adhesive to the underside using a small brush or the tube's nozzle. Press the flap back into place and smooth it flat with your fingers or the seam roller. Wipe away any adhesive that squeezes out straight away, before it dries.
WP-05Larger hole: cut a patch using the double-cut methodTear off a piece of matching wallpaper bigger than the damaged area and hold it over the tear, lining up the pattern exactly. Using the straight edge and a sharp blade, cut through both the patch and the wallpaper underneath at the same time, following the pattern lines so the cut is invisible. Lift away the offcut patch and peel off the damaged piece underneath — they should match shape exactly.
WP-06Paste and fit the patchApply wallpaper paste to the back of the patch, or to the wall if you're using paste-the-wall paper. Fit the patch into the gap, matching the pattern carefully before it sets. Press down gently from the centre outwards.
WP-07Smooth and roll the seamsUse a damp sponge to press out any air bubbles and smooth the patch flat, working from the middle towards the edges. Run the seam roller gently along the joins so they sit flush with the surrounding paper. Wipe away excess paste with a clean, slightly damp sponge — don't scrub, or you'll lift the seams.
WP-08Clean up and let it dryWipe down your tools before the paste dries on them. Leave the repair undisturbed for at least 24 hours so the paste cures fully — don't lean furniture against it or wipe it again in that time. Dispose of any offcuts and check the patch has bonded well once dry.
Some links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.