You can add a little splash to your kitchen without breaking the bank by applying a simple wallpaper border for a backsplash. You can get a pretty good deal on borders at the clearance bin at your wallpaper store or home improvement center, but make sure they have enough border to go around the area you want covered, as these deals are usually closed. and you may not be able to get more!
Since most wallpapers come glued down, applying the border is easy. A backsplash area is usually quite small, so this project can be done in an afternoon. When selecting your border, think about the overall theme or color scheme of the kitchen. You want to choose something that complements it, and of course choose one that is washable so you can easily remove all the “splatters” that occur during normal kitchen activities.
To prepare the wall area for the wallpaper border, first give the wall a good clean. You can wash them with soap and water, but be sure to remove any dirt or grease stains. If there are large holes in the plaster you may want to patch them up, but small holes are fine and the trim will cover them up nicely! Remove covers from any light switches or outlets.
Measure the wallpaper to be a couple of inches longer than the actual size of the backsplash, and cut it. Apply the wallpaper to the wall according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If your paper has a pattern, be sure to match the pattern to the cut edges at the corners or where you could not use the continuous roll. Butt the bottom of the trim against your counter. If there are windows or trim in the area you’re wallpapering, you’ll want to overlap any wallpaper that’s against them. Be sure to smooth the wallpaper with a damp sponge or wallpaper brush to remove any bubbles and wrinkles. After placing the trim, take a damp sponge and smooth it down to the edge; always move the sponge from the paper to the wall so that the edge does not curl. Make sure the edges have enough paste on them so they won’t peel off after it dries.
Cut excess paper around trim, windows, and at electrical outlets and switches.
