Wallpapering Uneven Walls: Tips, Tricks & Suitable Wallpapers

In all wallpapering guides, it’s recommended to apply wallpaper only to smooth, even walls. But how smooth does a wall really need to be for wallpapering? Is it possible to wallpaper uneven walls? And which wallpapers are best for hiding or compensating for imperfections? In this article, we answer these questions and provide a practical guide to wallpapering over uneven surfaces.

Walls with Imperfections

Every instruction manual states that walls to be wallpapered must be dry, clean, stable, absorbent, and smooth. Such a surface provides the best conditions for wallpapering, ensuring the wallpaper adheres well and the finish looks flawless. In new buildings, these conditions are usually standard. However, in older buildings or on walls that have been decorated multiple times, uneven surfaces are common. That’s why preparing the wall is so important. Cracks, holes, bumps, dents, flaking plaster, or crumbly paint should all be repaired or removed.

But can you still wallpaper uneven walls? The answer is yes—you can wallpaper any uneven wall, but the result won’t be as perfect as with a smooth surface.

Filling Uneven Walls

If you want to wallpaper an uneven wall, you should first repair problem areas by filling them. Small imperfections can be fixed with ready-mixed filler from a tube, while larger cracks or holes require a more robust filler compound. For entire surfaces, use a powdered filler that you mix yourself. Gypsum-based interior filler is ideal, as it is compatible with all materials and won’t discolor the wallpaper later. Smoothing an uneven wall with filler takes some practice and skill, but it’s the best preparation for wallpapering.

Wall smoothed and ready for wallpapering

Applying Lining Paper

Another way to even out wall imperfections is by applying lining paper (also known as painter’s fleece, renovation fleece, or lining wallpaper). This thick underlay is installed beneath the decorative wallpaper. It bridges cracks, smooths the wall, and hides problem areas so they don’t show through the top layer. Lining paper is a white non-woven wallpaper available in various thicknesses.

With lining paper, you can wallpaper uneven walls without manually repairing every flaw. In theory, this is the quickest and easiest solution. However, we still recommend filling the wall—or at least fixing the worst spots—before applying the lining paper. The smoother the wall, the better the wallpaper will adhere and the more attractive the final result.

The question of how smooth a wall needs to be cannot be answered with a specific number, as it depends on your expectations and the type of wallpaper you choose. We’ll explain which wallpapers work best on uneven walls in the next section.

Applying wallpaper that compensates for imperfections

Suitable Wallpapers

Which wallpapers are suitable for uneven walls? Are there patterns or colors that help disguise imperfections? This is a common question, especially for renters who can’t undertake major wall repairs. In fact, some types of wallpaper, surface finishes, patterns, and colors are better suited for covering up flaws than others.

Our recommendations:

Thick non-woven wallpapers
Wallpapers with textures, embossing, or relief
Wallpapers in dark, matte colors
Wallpapers with complex patterns

Non-woven wallpapers (also called fleece wallpapers) are the best choice for covering uneven walls. The thicker and heavier the wallpaper, the better it will hide irregularities. Thin, smooth paper wallpapers are not recommended, as even the smallest flaws will remain visible.

Thicker textured wallpapers are best for covering unevenness

Thick non-woven wallpapers are also available as textile wallpapers, which use fabric surfaces to effectively mask imperfections. Natural wallpapers with real grasses or bamboo fibers (a variation of non-woven wallpaper) are also a good option. These natural materials stand out visually and to the touch, concealing unsightly spots on the wall. Textured wallpapers with embossing, relief, or raised patterns are also recommended. Their three-dimensional surfaces distract the eye from the wall’s unevenness.

Dark and matte colors also help disguise flaws, as they absorb light and make imperfections less noticeable. Wallpapers with diffuse patterns, layered designs, or 3D effects have a similar effect and are perfect for wallpapering uneven walls.

Conclusion

Even uneven walls can be wallpapered. It’s worthwhile to smooth out imperfections with filler and/or apply lining paper. Additionally, certain thick wallpapers can mask cracks, dents, and other problem areas, making them almost invisible. The best options are heavy non-woven wallpapers with textures, embossing, or relief. Dark, matte colors and diffuse patterns help distract from any remaining imperfections.