Confirm product reference and batch details, inspect the face of the wallcovering and review the manufacturer's normal hanging information before starting.
Video Guide · Arte Wallcoverings
How to Hang Paper-Backed Wallpaper Using the Paste-the-Wall Method
This Arte video demonstrates a specialist alternative method for installing a paper-backed wallcovering: the back of the wallcovering is moistened with clean water while the specified adhesive is applied directly to the wall.
This is different from both a conventional paste-the-paper installation and the more familiar paste-the-wall method used with many non-woven-backed products. It should only be used where the wallcovering and adhesive manufacturer specifically permit it.
Video copyright: Arte.
Important: This Is a Specialist Arte Method
Do not treat this video as a general paste-the-wall technique.
The original Arte instructions state that this alternative method depends on Arte Clearpro adhesive. The wallcovering shown has a paper backing, which is moistened with water before hanging. Arte specifically warns that a traditional higher-water-content wallcovering adhesive is not suitable for this demonstrated method.
The video's example also uses 70 cm wide wallcovering. Measurements, soaking time, adhesive coverage and handling shown in the demonstration relate to that installation system and should not be copied automatically to another product.
What the Video Demonstrates
Product checks
Confirm reference and batch details and inspect the wallcovering before cutting.
Wall preparation
Begin with a dry, clean, smooth and suitably absorbent surface.
Moistening the backing
The reverse of the paper-backed wallcovering is wetted evenly with clean cold water.
Resting the drop
The moistened wallcovering is folded and allowed to rest for the period demonstrated by Arte.
Pasting the wall
The specified Arte adhesive is brushed and rolled directly onto the prepared wall.
Hanging & finishing
The expanded drop is aligned, rolled, trimmed and joined edge-to-edge.
Key Steps from the Arte Demonstration
The wall should be dry, clean, smooth and appropriately absorbent. Establish a true vertical line for the first planned drop rather than relying on the corner itself being straight.
Measure the wall, cut the required lengths with suitable trimming allowance and mark the top of each drop so hanging direction remains consistent.
In Arte's demonstrated method, the reverse of the first drop is moistened right to the edges with clean cold water rather than adhesive.
The ends are folded towards the centre with the edges protected from drying. The source demonstration uses approximately 8–10 minutes; use only the timing specified for the exact system being installed.
The video uses Arte Clearpro. Stir it as instructed and apply it directly to the wall, brushing the edges and rolling the main area evenly.
After the resting period, bring the wallcovering to the pasted wall and align its edge accurately to the vertical reference line.
Press the wallcovering from the centre towards the edges using the tool shown for the product, then trim at ceiling and skirting with a sharp blade.
Moisten the next length in the same way, maintain the demonstrated resting time and butt the new drop neatly against the preceding one.
Use the tools and pressure appropriate to the demonstrated wallcovering, trim surplus material cleanly and avoid forcing adhesive onto the face.
Arte's example shows cleaning a washable wallcovering with cold water. Do not assume the same treatment is safe for another finish.
Step back after the first several lengths and check seams, pattern and surface condition before continuing around the room.
How This Differs from the Other Hanging Methods
Traditional paste-the-paper
Adhesive is applied to the reverse of the paper-backed wallcovering and the pasted drop is allowed to rest where the instructions require it.
This Arte alternative
The paper backing is moistened with water, while Arte's specified adhesive is applied to the wall. It is a manufacturer-specific alternative, not a generic replacement for paste-the-paper installation.
For non-woven-backed wallcoverings designed for conventional paste-the-wall installation, see our How to Hang Non-Woven Wallpaper video and the main Paste-the-Wall Wallpaper Guide.
Related Wallpaper Guides
Do not substitute this method without checking the specification
This Arte technique combines a moistened paper backing with a specific wall adhesive. Confirm that the exact wallcovering and adhesive system permit it before installation.
