STUDIO BLOG: THE COLLECTIVE WALL

How to Measure Your Walls for Wallpaper

Choosing wallpaper you love is exciting — but ordering the right amount starts with proper measurements.

Whether you're sizing a small powder room or a full feature wall, careful measuring helps avoid shortages and reduces waste.

STEP 1: Gather Your Tools

Tape measure

A laser handheld tape measure offers superior accuracy for long walls or high ceilings, eliminating sag in traditional tapes.

Notepad & Phone

Use to jot down every measurement immediately—width, height, and wall notes like doors or counters. Snap photos of walls with measurements taped visibly for your records or installer reference.

Calculator

Quickly multiply width × height per wall and total sections to match roll coverage. Since rolls come pre-sized to standard heights (7ft, 8ft, 9ft, 10ft, 11ft, 12ft), focus on linear feet rather than square footage for exact roll counts.

STEP 2: Measure Each Wall Separately

  • Wallpaper will be printed based on the square foot total of each wall. Don’t subtract for doors or windows — these details are factored later when trimming during installation.
  • Measure the height and width of each wall as a single square/rectangle in inches
  • Use this calculation to determine the square footage of the wall: [Height (in) x width (in) ] / 144 = square feet
  • This total square feet will be used to calculate the final price

STEP 3: Example -Measuring a Bedroom with Built-Ins

Picture this modern bedroom where built-in furniture creates varying wall heights perfect for wallpaper.

Measure each section by width and height:

  • Main wall behind bed: 12 ft wide × 10 ft high
  • Desk wall: 6 ft wide × full wall height (e.g., 10 ft). Wallpaper around shelves as needed. Avoid splitting your order above/below shelves, which creates mismatched seams; measure the entire wall and treat built-ins as installation obstacles rather than measurement deductions

STEP 4: Choose Roll Width

Use the bedroom example above to decide between 26" (DIY-friendly) or 52" (pro-preferred) rolls.

Consider these factors:

  • Panel width: Choose wallpaper at least 26" wide to reduce visible seams; 52" panels are preferred for the fewest seams (about one every 4.5 ft).
  • Installation skill: Panels under 52" are easier to handle alone; wider panels usually require two people or professional tools.
  • Installation guide: Wall maps showing panel cuts are included with your final order for easier installation
  • Pricing and allowances: All orders are priced by total square footage. I recommend adding 3" to the left, right, and bottom of each wall to accommodate trimming and installation adjustments.

STEP 4: Think in Sections for Complex Spaces

If your room has open shelving, partial-height walls, or built-ins, treat each surface separately and total the areas together — like a puzzle. This keeps your order accurate without underestimating the total coverage.

Once you’ve measured your space and chosen the roll width that feels right, the fun really begins. With accurate dimensions in hand, you can focus on what matters most—selecting a pattern that tells your story and feels at home in your everyday life.

Ready to bring your walls to life? Explore the wallpaper collection to get started

SHOP WALLPAPER COLLECTION

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