What Glue To Use On Dollhouse Paper And How To Stick It To The Walls?

In my experience, when it comes to dollhouses, detail matters - and that includes the walls you're staring at. So today we will talk about the best adhesives to use for dollhouse wallpaper which bring those tiny rooms to life without the frustration of peeling or bubbling.

So let's dive straight into things!

PS, the main image is dollhouse wallpaper by @ SuiteCitywoman

What are the best glues to use on dollhouse wallpaper?

In my experience, there is some choice between the right glues for wallpapering, with each its own pros and cons.

This is based on my own opinion, yours or others' might be different

White PVA glue

First up is your regular white PVA glue, your household name that's easy to find and fairly forgiving.

It is easy to find, you probably already have it and PVA gives you a bit more play to get things just right. PVA and wallpaper paste (see below) can also be applied more delicately.

For PVA, Elmer's glue is a go-to because it dries clear and is easy to work with.

Wallpaper paste

Wallpaper paste, specifically made for paper applications, is another choice, often used because it gives you a bit more time to adjust your paper before it sets.

There is a specific dollhouse wallpaper paste on the market:

=> You could also use regular wallpaper paste as you would use for your real-size wallpaper, (ideal if you have leftovers), but thin it down very well with water, so that you have a very thin layer of paste.

Otherwise, you will have glue paste coming out the sides of your wallpaper everywhere, and that would make a huge mess!

In the real wallpaper paste world, Solvite has a strong following among enthusiasts.

Spray adhesive

Then there's spray adhesive - the quick and dirty option. But beware, it's potent and permanent, spray adhesives pretty much stick on contact, but can get messy.

If you must go with spray adhesive, 3M makes a reliable product - just use it in a well-ventilated area!

Overall, your choice should depend on the paper type, your comfort level, and the specifics of the dollhouse room you're decorating.

Applying dollhouse wallpaper Effectively

Now that you've chosen the right adhesive, it's time to make sure your dollhouse walls look terrific with the dollhouse paper applied.

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Seal the Wood:

Before applying wallpaper, it's crucial to seal the wood. This prevents the wallpaper paste from being absorbed by the wood.

You can use a wood sealer or a coat of white latex or acrylic paint. Both options work, but acrylic paint is chemical-based while latex paint is water-based. Choose whichever you prefer.

Paint the Walls:

Apply a coat of white paint if your walls are dark. This ensures the wallpaper colors will pop. Even if refurbishing an old dollhouse with painted walls, painting them white first provides a clean background for the wallpaper.

Step 2: Measure and Choose Your Wallpaper

Measure the Walls:

Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of each wall. Start with the back wall and then measure the side walls.

Select the Right Scale:

Ensure the wallpaper print matches the scale of your dollhouse. For instance, a one-inch scale dollhouse requires smaller patterns compared to a Barbie scale. There are plenty of options available, from specialized dollhouse wallpaper to scrapbook paper.

To figure out the scale, you can also use my free tool: a scale convertor, where you can easily calculate from one scale to another.

Purchase Sufficient Paper:

Always buy more wallpaper than you think you need. Colors can vary between print runs, so having extra ensures consistency. If you need two sheets, get three or four to cover any mistakes and future repairs.

Step 3: Cutting the Wallpaper

Secure the Wallpaper:

If your wallpaper comes in a roll, use a small amount of blue tape to keep it flat while you work. Be cautious with the tape to avoid damaging the print.

Mark and Cut:

Place the wallpaper against the wall and mark where you need to cut. Use a ruler and scissors, a paper cutter, or even a Cricut machine for straight edges. Pre-fitting the wallpaper helps identify any adjustments needed.

Step 4: Applying the Glue

Apply the glue:

This step is where you either mix your chosen glue above with a little bit of water or apply PVA glue on the back of the wallpaper.

Spread the glue evenly on the back of the wallpaper using a paintbrush. Avoid missing spots to prevent bubbles.

Position the Wallpaper:

Carefully position the glued wallpaper on the wall. Start from the center and smooth out towards the edges to remove air bubbles. Use a dry cloth to ensure it adheres smoothly.

Step 5: Handling Windows and Doors

Cover Over Openings:

Wallpaper over windows and doors instead of pre-cutting these areas. Once the wallpaper is dry, use a sharp Exacto knife to cut out the openings for a clean finish.

Step 6: Final Touches

Finish the Corners: For seamless corners, overlap the wallpaper slightly onto the adjacent wall. This technique hides any visible wood and provides a professional look.

Add Trim and Flooring: After the wallpaper is dry, add flooring and trim to complete the room. These final touches enhance the overall appearance and make the wallpaper stand out.

Whitney Labrie walks you through every step again 😉

That's all!

I hope that you found an answer to all of your questions, but if you have anything else to ask, feel free to do so in the comment section below.

If you just want to chat with me, you can also always follow me on one of my social media channels below or take a look at my YouTube videos for tutorials!

I wish you happy crafting!

Kind regards,

Lizzy