Wallpapering Supplies
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How to Calculate Wallpaper
Wallpaper is sold by the roll. Standard American single rolls cover about 35-38 sq ft usable area (accounting for waste).
Basic Formula
Step by Step
- Calculate wall area: Room perimeter × wall height
- Subtract openings: Doors (~21 sq ft each), Windows (~15 sq ft each)
- Calculate roll coverage: Roll width × Roll length
- Account for waste: Reduce coverage by 15-20% for trimming
- Pattern repeat: If patterned, add extra for matching
Standard Roll Sizes
- American Single Roll: 21" wide × 33' long (~57 sq ft, ~35 usable)
- American Double Roll: 21" wide × 66' long (~115 sq ft, ~72 usable)
- European Roll: 20.5" wide × 33' long (~56 sq ft)
Tip: Many wallpapers are sold as double rolls. Check the packaging carefully.
Just wallpapering a single feature wall?
Try our Accent Wall Calculator →Types of Wallpaper
Choosing the right wallpaper type affects both the look and the installation process.
Standard Pre-Pasted
The most common type. Adhesive is pre-applied to the backing — just activate with water. Works well for most rooms and is widely available in thousands of patterns.
Peel & Stick
Self-adhesive wallpaper that sticks directly to the wall. Easy to apply, reposition, and remove without damaging surfaces. Ideal for renters and accent walls. Slightly thinner than traditional wallpaper.
Grasscloth & Natural Fiber
Made from woven natural materials like jute, seagrass, or bamboo. Creates a rich, textured look. More expensive ($60–200+ per roll) and requires professional installation for best results.
Vinyl
The most durable and moisture-resistant option. Easy to clean with a damp cloth. Best for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas. Available in realistic textures that mimic grasscloth, brick, and wood.
How Much Does Wallpaper Cost?
Wallpaper costs vary widely based on type, brand, and pattern complexity.
- Budget-friendly: $20–40 per roll — basic patterns, peel & stick options
- Mid-range: $40–80 per roll — quality pre-pasted, popular designs
- Premium: $80–150+ per roll — designer patterns, grasscloth, metallic finishes
- Luxury: $150–300+ per roll — hand-printed, artisan, or custom wallpaper
For a standard 12×12 room (about 6–8 rolls), total wallpaper cost ranges from $120 for budget options to $600+ for premium designs. Professional installation adds $200–500 per room.
Wallpaper vs. Paint: Which Is Right?
Choose Wallpaper When:
- You want patterns, textures, or visual depth that paint can't achieve
- You're creating a statement or accent wall
- You want a look that lasts 10–15 years without touch-ups
- You're covering imperfections in older walls
Choose Paint When:
- Budget is tight ($30–60 for a full room vs. $120–600+ for wallpaper)
- You change colors frequently or like to update often
- The room has lots of corners, outlets, or irregular surfaces
- You're doing a quick refresh in a day
Many designers combine both: painted walls with one wallpapered accent wall. Use our Paint Calculator to estimate paint for the other walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pattern repeat?
Pattern repeat is the distance between where the pattern starts again. Larger repeats mean more waste when matching patterns between strips.
How much extra should I buy?
Always buy at least 1 extra roll (2 for large patterns). Dye lots vary, so running out mid-project can mean a visible mismatch.
Do I wallpaper behind furniture?
Yes, if possible. You may move furniture later, and partial wallpaper looks unfinished.
Can you wallpaper over existing wallpaper?
It's not recommended. Old wallpaper can bubble, peel, or create an uneven surface under the new layer. Best practice is to remove existing wallpaper, repair the wall, and prime before applying new wallpaper.
How long does wallpaper last?
Quality wallpaper lasts 10–15 years or more with proper installation. Vinyl wallpaper is the most durable, while grasscloth may show wear in high-traffic areas sooner. Peel & stick is designed for shorter-term use (3–5 years).
What's the difference between single and double rolls?
A single roll is 21" × 33' (~57 sq ft). A double roll is 21" × 66' (~115 sq ft). Most wallpaper in stores is actually priced and sold as double rolls, even though the coverage is listed per single roll. Always check the packaging to confirm what you're getting.