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Lining paper

Lining paper is used to create a smooth, even surface on walls and ceilings before decorating. It helps hide small bumps, cracks, and minor imperfections so paint or wallpaper sits flatter and looks more professional, while also reducing show through from old patterns or textured finishes. Available in different weights and widths, lining paper is easy to paste and hang, and can be trimmed to fit awkward corners or around sockets and skirting. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and rental properties where a neat base coat is needed, and pairs neatly with a wide range of paints, wallpapers, and finishes.

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Can you paint lining paper?

Yes, you can absolutely paint lining paper. Lining paper is often used as a base layer to smooth out walls or provide additional insulation and serves as the perfect canvas for a lick of colour. Customise your lining paper to your heart's content, playing with different colours and designs to suit your intended aesthetic. Applying a primer or undercoat to the lining paper before painting will result in less paint being absorbed by the paper, but this is more of a personal preference than a necessity.
 

Do you hang lining paper horizontally or vertically?

Lining paper is versatile and can be hung horizontally or vertically, depending on your preference and the condition of the wall. Generally speaking, horizontally hanging lining paper is more common and recommended. The orientation of horizontal lining paper helps to minimise visible seams, allows for easier application, and helps to reinforce the stability of the paper. Vertically hanging lining paper can be a great choice if your wall has significant imperfections or unevenness, helping you to camouflage those issues with ease. Ultimately, it’s best to assess your specific situation to determine how to hang your lining paper. Check out our helpful guide 'How to hang lining paper' for installation tips.
 

Can you wallpaper over lining paper?

Yes, you can definitely wallpaper over lining paper. Lining paper is designed to provide a smooth and stable surface, making it an excellent base for walls with imperfections or unevenness. You’ll achieve great results when applying wallpaper over lining paper, but it’s important to ensure the lining paper is well adhered to the wall before applying the wallpaper. Don’t forget to consider the weight and thickness of the wallpaper you plan to use, as it may impact the overall texture and finish of the wall.
 

How long after hanging lining paper can you paint it?

After hanging lining paper, it’s recommended to wait for it to fully dry and settle before painting. As a general guideline, it’s best to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before painting over freshly hung lining paper, allowing the paper to fully dry and establish a stable surface for the paint to adhere to. Make sure to consider the lining paper used, the environmental conditions, and the adhesive used when evaluating drying time. Of course, it’s always a good idea to check the instructions provided with the lining paper for a more specific guidance on drying times.

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