Ah, wallpaper. Sometimes it’s charming… and sometimes it’s giving “grandma’s guest room circa 1964.” If you’re staring at a pattern that’s no longer sparking joy, you might be wondering: Can you paint over wallpaper? Good news! In many cases, yes! But before you reach for a roller, there are a few things every DIYer should know. 

Below, we’re breaking down when painting over wallpaper is a smart move, when removal is the better route, how to prep like a pro and how our best products get a smooth, long-lasting finish. 

When It Works and When It Doesn’t 

When Painting Over Wallpaper Is a Good Idea 

Painting over wallpaper can absolutely work when: 

The wallpaper is smooth, secure and in good condition 

There’s no peeling, bubbling or major damage 

The seams are lying flat 

The existing wallpaper isn’t heavily textured 

If everything looks intact, painting over wallpaper is a time-saving shortcut that can refresh a room without hours of steaming and scraping. 

When You Should Remove Wallpaper Instead 

Painting is magical, but it can’t work miracles every time. Wallpaper removal is usually the better option if: 

The wallpaper has a deep texture or embossing (it will likely show through paint) 

Sections are peeling, torn or water-damaged 

The wallpaper is fabric-backed or vinyl, which can resist paint adhesion 

You prefer the smoothest, most seamless finish possible 

If the texture is the only issue, removal is almost always worth it. 

How to Prep Wallpaper for Painting 

Step 1: Clean the Wallpaper 

Press down any loose seams using wallpaper adhesive so everything lies flat 

Wipe away dust, residue or buildup with a damp cloth 

Step 2: Repair and Smooth the Surface 

If seams are visible, skim them with a lightweight joint compound 

Let dry, then sand until smooth 

After sanding, clean away dust and let the wall dry completely 

Pro tip: Good prep = a good finish. Don’t rush this part. 

Step 3: Prime the Wallpaper 

Pick a durable primer designed to seal wallpaper and create a paint-ready surface. Priming helps lock down seams, prevent moisture issues and ensures even color coverage. 

How to Paint Over Wallpaper the Right Way 

Choosing the Best Paint for Wallpaper 

Pick durable paint with great coverage. Our Interior Wall Paint (Eggshell) offers rich color, great hide and a long-lasting finish—and the minimal VOC formula means fresher air while you work. 

Keep in mind: texture will show through. If your wallpaper has raised patterns or heavy embossing, that texture will likely echo through the paint no matter how many coats you apply. 

Step-by-Step Painting Process

Step 1: Cut In Around the Edges 

Using a high-quality angled brush, paint around: 

Ceilings 

Corners 

Door and window trim 

Baseboards 

This gives your roller room to do its thing later. 

Pro tip: Lightly tap excess paint off your brush on the inside of the tray to avoid drips. 

Step 2: Load Your Roller Like a Pro 

Pour paint into a roller tray

Use a 3/8"–1/2" nap roller for ideal coverage on smoother wallpaper 

Roll until the roller is evenly coated, not dripping 

Step 3: Roll On the First Section 

Start at the upper corner of your wall 

Work in 3' x 3' sections 

Avoid starting too close to your cut-in edges; begin 3–4 inches away 

Step 4: Fill In and Smooth Out 

Lightly roll over your cut-in area to help everything blend 

Reload as soon as coverage gets patchy 

Pro tip: Always maintain a wet edge to prevent lap marks. 

Step 5: Work Down the Wall 

Continue painting in vertical columns from ceiling to floor 

Slightly overlap your previous section so everything blends seamlessly 

Pro tip: A light finishing pass over each completed section helps ensure a uniform look. 

Step 6: Repeat + Apply a Second Coat 

Move across the entire room, repeating the section-by-section process 

Let the first coat dry fully, then apply a second coat for best color payoff 

Color Ideas to Refresh Outdated Wallpaper 

Once the wallpaper is sealed and ready, the fun begins. A few Clare picks perfect for transforming outdated prints: 

Timeless Warm Whites: Whipped, Timeless, Like Buttah 
→ Lighten and brighten old-school patterns without feeling stark. 

Soft Neutrals: Windy City, On Point, Greige 
→ Bring subtle warmth and a modern, minimalist aesthetic. 

Moody Makeovers: Goodnight Moon, Coffee Date, Shade 
→ Dramatically transform busy wallpaper into a clean, chic backdrop. 

Calming Blues + Greens: Headspace, Frozen, Nairobi Blue 
→ Perfect for turning dated prints into soothing, spa-like walls. 

The Bottom Line 

Yes, you can paint over wallpaper if the surface is stable and properly prepped. With the right primer, durable paint and a little patience, you can give your walls a fresh start without the hassle of full wallpaper removal. 

If you're ready to say goodbye to leftover florals or bold stripes, browse our curated colors to find your perfect match and enjoy your newly refreshed space.