People often think wallpapering is a simple and stress-free DIY job. However, once they get hands-on, they quickly realise it’s far more complex than just pasting paper onto a wall.
This becomes even more challenging when wallpaper is used to cover imperfections or applied over old wallpaper. The final result is often not what they expected, and many end up spending more time, money, and energy than planned.
That’s why it’s so important not to skip the preparation stage. Proper prep isn’t just about filling holes and repairing deep cracks — it’s also about creating a true “blank canvas”. One of the best ways to achieve a professional, flawless finish is by using lining paper.
But what exactly is lining paper? How do you use it? And which type is right for your project?
If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, this blog will give you the basic knowledge you need to confidently tackle your next wallpapering project.
What is Lining Paper?
As the name suggests, lining paper is a plain paper liner designed to act as a base layer applied to walls. It creates a smooth, uniform surface for decorative wallpaper or paint, helping you achieve a much better finish.
Lining paper can hide minor imperfections such as small cracks, dents, or slightly uneven areas. However, it’s important not to rely on lining paper alone to cover serious wall damage.
If your wall has deep cracks, large holes, or very uneven surfaces, it’s best to spend time properly filling and smoothing these areas first. This extra preparation will make a noticeable difference in the final result.
Benefits of Using Lining Paper
Lining paper offers several advantages, including:
- Insulation: It provides an extra layer that can help trap heat in the room, improve temperature control, and even muffle sound, making the space quieter.
- Reduced risk of wallpaper shrinkage: Like all paper, wallpaper expands when wet and shrinks as it dries. Lining paper acts as an anchor, helping prevent shrinkage, seam splitting, and gaps.
- Improved durability: It helps decorative wallpaper stay in place and reduces the likelihood of peeling over time.
- A smoother, more professional finish: Lining paper creates an even surface, allowing wallpaper and paint to adhere better and look more uniform.
Because of these benefits, lining paper is an essential step that shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s always worth including it as part of your wallpapering budget if you want a long-lasting, high-quality finish.
Haydn’s Lining Paper Options
Haydn currently stocks two types of lining paper: the conventional Paste-the-Paper option and the modern Paste-the-Wall option.
- Haydn Lining Paper Paste-the-Paper 1200 Grade
The Haydn Paste-the-Paper 1200 grade lining paper is designed to protect and prepare old plaster in good condition before painting or wallpapering.
With a thickness of 159 GSM, it helps smooth over minor surface defects, providing a more even and flawless finish.
As the name suggests, this traditional Paste-the-Paper lining paper requires adhesive to be applied directly onto the paper before hanging. The paper must then be left to absorb the moisture, which can be slightly more challenging for beginners.
This product is available in rolls of 20m x 0.53m, covering up to 10.6m².
It is also wet strippable, meaning it can be removed more easily when it’s time to redecorate — no more unnecessary struggle.
- Haydn Lining Paper Paste-the-Wall Vlies 165
The Haydn Paste-the-Wall Vlies 165 is a non-woven, trade-quality lining paper suitable for both walls and ceilings.
It offers excellent tear resistance, breathability, and the ability to cover hairline cracks, pitting, and more noticeable plaster imperfections.
With the Paste-the-Wall method, the adhesive is applied directly to the wall rather than the paper. This modern approach is quicker, cleaner, and often more convenient.
One of the biggest advantages of this lining paper is that it does not expand or contract, making it easier to achieve a smooth, professional finish.
The Haydn Paste-the-Wall lining paper is available in rolls of 10m x 0.545m, covering up to 5.45m².
Additional features include:
- No PVC
- Wet strippable for easier removal
Whether you choose the traditional Paste-the-Paper method or the modern Paste-the-Wall option, lining paper is a valuable step in achieving a high-quality wallpaper finish. With the right preparation, you’ll save yourself time, avoid costly mistakes, and enjoy a result that looks truly professional.
Preparation Process
To achieve the best results when hanging lining paper, proper wall preparation is essential.
Start by ensuring the surface is clean, dry, and free from any remnants of old wallpaper or flaky paint. Use a Haydn Pro-Edge Scraper to remove residual adhesive, loose paint, or wallpaper backing.
Next, fill any holes, dents, or cracks with an appropriate filler. Once dry, sand the surface until it is smooth and even.
After sanding, don’t forget to wipe down the wall to remove any dust, as this can affect how well the paste adheres.
Priming the Wall
The next step is applying a primer. Priming helps seal the wall, preventing the paste from being absorbed too quickly. It also improves adhesion, ensuring the lining paper bonds properly to the surface.
· Hanging the Lining Paper
Once your wall is fully prepared, you’re ready to hang the lining paper. The method will depend on the type of lining paper you are using:
- Paste-the-Paper Method
With this traditional option, the adhesive is applied directly to the lining paper before it goes on the wall:
1. Cut the paper to the required length.
2. Apply an even coat of paste, making sure the edges are fully covered.
3. Allow the paper to soak for the recommended time before hanging.
This soaking stage helps the paper relax and reduces the risk of bubbling.
- Paste-the-Wall Method
For Paste-the-Wall lining paper, the adhesive is applied straight onto the wall instead of the paper:
- Roll or brush the paste evenly onto the wall.
- Apply the lining paper directly onto the pasted surface.
This method is generally quicker, cleaner, and easier to manage, especially for beginners. Once applied, smooth the paper using a Haydn Professional Paper Hanger Brush or the Haydn Wallpaper Smoother to remove air bubbles and ensure a neat finish.
Best Practice Tip: Cross-Lining
If you plan to apply decorative wallpaper over the top, it’s recommended to hang the lining paper horizontally — a technique known as cross-lining.
Cross-lining prevents the seams of the lining paper and the decorative wallpaper from overlapping. Since decorative wallpaper is usually hung vertically, this approach helps create a perfectly smooth, level finish and reduces the chance of seams lifting over time.
For best results, work from top to bottom, as this allows for easier handling and more consistent coverage.
Wallpapering can completely transform a space, but the key to achieving a smooth, professional finish lies in the preparation. Lining paper is one of the most effective ways to create the perfect base, reduce imperfections, and ensure your wallpaper lasts for years to come.
Whether you choose the traditional Paste-the-Paper 1200 grade or the modern Paste-the-Wall Vlies 165, Haydn has the right lining paper solution to suit your project.
If you’re unsure which option is best for your walls, visit your local Haydn store or speak with our team — we’re always happy to help you get the best possible result.
