How To Measure for Wallpaper in 7 Easy Steps
- Studio Jeandré
- Mar 1, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 17
Choosing and installing wallpaper—whether it’s peel and stick wallpaper, boho wallpaper, moody wallpaper, vintage wallpaper, or a stunning mural, wallpaper—can completely transform a room. But before you dive into your design dreams, you need to measure for wallpaper accurately to avoid costly mistakes.
Whether you're covering an entire room or creating a bold accent wall, this step-by-step guide will help you calculate the right amount of wallpaper with confidence.
How to Measure for Wallpaper in 7 Easy Steps
Why Accurate Wallpaper Measurement Matters
Before we jump into the steps, let’s discuss why precise measurements are crucial:
Avoid Wasting Money – Buying too much wallpaper means unnecessary expenses, while too little can lead to delays and mismatched patterns. Prevent Installation Headaches – Running out mid-project is frustrating, especially with patterned or mural wallpaper that requires precise alignment. Reduce Waste – Sustainable decorating means minimising excess material. Proper measuring ensures you only order what you need.
Now, let’s get into the 7 essential steps to measure for wallpaper like a pro.
Step 1:
Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you start, make sure you have:
A steel measuring tape (more accurate than a cloth one)
A pencil & notepad (or a notes app on your phone)
A calculator (for quick square footage math)
A laser measure (optional) – Great for high ceilings or large walls
Pro Tip: If you’re working with peel and stick wallpaper, keep a level handy to ensure straight application.
Step 2:
Measure the Wall Height
Start by measuring the height of your wall from the floor to the ceiling.
For standard walls: Measure in multiple spots (left, centre, right) in case of uneven floors or ceilings. For sloped or vaulted ceilings: Measure the tallest and shortest points, then use the larger number.
Record the tallest measurement to ensure full coverage.
Step 3:
Measure the Wall Width
Next, measure the width of each wall from end to end.
For an accent wall: Only measure the single wall you’re decorating. For rooms with doors/windows: Measure the full wall width first—we’ll subtract openings later.
Pro Tip: If walls have textured finishes (like knockdown or popcorn), add an extra inch to your measurements for better adhesion.
Step 4:
Calculate the Total Square Footage
Multiply the height by the width of each wall to get its square footage.
Example:
Wall 1: 8 ft (height) x 10 ft (width) = 80 sq ft
Wall 2: 8 ft x 12 ft = 96 sq ft
Total: 80 + 96 = 176 sq ft
Subtract doors & windows (optional):If covering a whole room, you can subtract non-papered areas (like large windows or doors) to save on material.
Standard door = ~20 sq ft
Large window = ~15 sq ft
Adjusted total: 176 sq ft – 35 sq ft = 141 sq ft
Step 5:
Account for Pattern Repeats & Waste
This is where many DIYers go wrong! If your boho wallpaper, moody wallpaper, or vintage wallpaper has a pattern, you’ll need extra for matching.
How to Calculate Pattern Repeat Waste:
Find the pattern repeat (listed on the wallpaper label, e.g., 24 inches).
Divide the repeat by the roll width (e.g., 24” repeat ÷ 20.5” roll width = ~1.17).
Round up to the nearest whole number (2 in this case).
General Waste Guidelines:
No pattern (solid colors): Add 10% extra
Small pattern repeat: Add 15% extra
Large pattern repeat (like mural wallpaper): Add 20% extra
Example:
Total area: 176 sq ft + 15% waste = 202 sq ft
Step 6:
Calculate the Number of Rolls Needed
Divide your total square footage (including waste) by the coverage per roll (found on the product details).
Standard wallpaper rolls cover ~56 sq ft Peel and stick wallpaper often comes in smaller panels—check the label!
Example:
Total needed: 202 sq ft
Coverage per roll: 56 sq ft
Rolls needed: 202 ÷ 56 = 3.6 → Round up to 4 rolls
Pro Tip: If ordering custom mural wallpaper, confirm if it’s sold by the panel or square foot.
Step 7:
Double-Check Your Measurements
Before purchasing, verify everything:
✔ Re-measure walls to confirm.
✔ Check pattern repeat details.
✔ Compare multiple wallpaper brands (some have wider rolls, reducing needed quantity).
POSTS RELATED TO MEASURING FOR WALLPAPER:
Wallpaper Pattern Types Explained
Different patterns affect how much wallpaper you need:
Pattern Type | Difficulty | Waste Level | Best For |
Straight Match | Easy | Low | Geometric, subtle designs |
Drop Match | Moderate | High | Floral, intricate vintage wallpaper |
Free Match | Easiest | None | Textured, boho wallpaper, solids |
1. Straight Match
The pattern aligns horizontally. Easier to install with minimal waste.
Watch the instruction video on wallpapering with a straight match here.
2. Drop Match
The pattern shifts diagonally, requiring more wallpaper (common in mural wallpaper and intricate designs).
Watch the instruction video on wallpapering with a drop match here.
3. Free Match
No pattern alignment needed—ideal for textured or solid-colour wallpaper.
Read more about reverse hanging here.
See below for the different wallpaper symbols that will appear on the product information of wallpaper.
FAQs: Measuring for Wallpaper
Q: How much wallpaper do I need for an accent wall?
A: Measure the wall’s height & width, add 10-15% waste, then divide by roll coverage.
Q: Can I use leftover wallpaper for touch-ups?
A: Yes! Save extra pieces in case of future repairs.
Q: What if my walls are textured?
A: Textured walls may require paste-the-wall or peel and stick wallpaper for better adhesion.
Q: How do I measure for mural wallpaper?
A: Murals are often pre-sized—check if your wall dimensions fit the design before ordering.
Tips for a Flawless Wallpaper Project
Order samples first – Colours can look different in your lighting.
Buy all rolls at once – Dye lots can vary between batches.
Watch installation tutorials – Especially for drop match or mural wallpaper.
By following these steps, you’ll avoid costly mistakes and enjoy a smooth wallpaper installation—whether you’re going for boho, moody, vintage, or a statement accent wall!
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