Straight match
Every adjacent drop matches at the same height. Drop 2 is aligned directly to drop 1, drop 3 to drop 2, and so on.
Video Guide · Arte Wallcoverings
How to Hang Straight Match Wallpaper
In this Arte video, you can see how straight match wallpaper is measured, cut and hung so the pattern lines up at the same height across every adjoining drop.
Video copyright: Arte.
What Is a Straight Match Wallpaper?
With a straight match, the pattern repeats at the same vertical position on each strip. When adjacent drops are correctly aligned, the design meets straight across the seam rather than stepping up or down.
Straight match symbol
Half drop match
Alternate drops shift vertically by half of the full repeat. If your label shows that system, use our separate half drop guide.
Before cutting: confirm the match type, pattern repeat, roll reference and batch. Pattern matching affects both the cutting sequence and the amount of wallpaper required.
Key Steps from the Video
Confirm that the wallpaper uses a straight match and note the stated pattern repeat. Check the rolls before cutting.
Roll the wallpaper out on a clean surface and identify where the design repeats vertically so you can plan the first drop and its motif position.
Measure the wall height and allow sufficient extra length for final trimming. The source guide uses at least 5 cm at the top and bottom as its example.
Lay the next length beside the first and move it until the pattern aligns at exactly the same height across the join, then cut the required length.
Repeat the process with each new length, matching the design to the preceding drop and keeping enough allowance for accurate final trimming.
Mark the reverse of each strip in order so the planned cutting sequence is not mixed up when you begin hanging.
Use a plumb line, level or laser to establish the first edge. A straight first drop is essential if the matched pattern is to remain level across the wall.
Position each subsequent drop edge-to-edge with the previous one, adjusting gently until the design meets cleanly across the seam.
Finish each strip using tools suitable for the wallcovering, then trim the top and bottom cleanly once the pattern and edge are correctly positioned.
When the installation is complete, the repeating motif should appear at the same height across adjoining drops, creating a continuous horizontal alignment through the design.
Related Wallpaper Guides
Match the pattern before you make the cut
A straight match is simpler than a half drop, but the repeat still needs to be allowed for when measuring, cutting and estimating the amount of wallpaper required.
