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How to Paint Onto a Wallpaper: Step-by-Step Guide

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Painting Onto Wallpaper | Birla Opus Paints

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There comes a moment when dated wallpaper stops feeling charming and starts holding your space back. Yet removing it isn’t always the most practical option, especially if you want to avoid damage, dust, and days of labour. 

 

That’s where painting onto wallpaper becomes a surprisingly effective solution. In this guide, we’ll cover when it’s suitable to paint over wallpaper, when it’s best avoided, and how to achieve a flawless, professional finish.

 

 

Table of Contents

 

  1. Can You Paint Over Wallpaper? The Design-Expert Verdict
  2. How to Cover Wallpaper with Paint: Preparation Steps That Matter
  3. Your Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Onto Wallpaper
  4. Painting on Textured Wallpaper: What You Need to Know
  5. Water-Based vs Oil-Based Paint for Wallpaper: Which One Wins?
  6. When Not to Paint Over Wallpaper: Red Flags to Watch For
  7. Conclusion

 

 

Can You Paint Over Wallpaper? The Design-Expert Verdict

 

 

 

 

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you paint over wallpaper?” The short answer is yes, in most cases, you absolutely can. As long as the wallpaper is firmly stuck to the wall, free from major bubbles, and generally in good shape, painting over it can be a smart and time-saving alternative to stripping it off. In fact, it often helps avoid the wall damage and mess that come with removal.

 

But not every wallpaper is suitable for painting. Some surfaces paint beautifully, while others are best removed entirely. If you’re unsure which option is right for your space, check out our guide: Peel It Off Like a Pro: Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Wallpaper Easily for expert removal tips.

 

Pro Tip: Do a quick ‘tug test’ by lightly tugging at a corner or seam. If it lifts easily, repair it first, or consider removal, before painting. A strong foundation is half the battle won. Before you begin, check out our in-depth breakdown of wallpaper vs paint to make an informed choice.

 

 

How to Cover Wallpaper with Paint: Preparation Steps That Matter

 

Before you pick up a paintbrush, a little prep goes a long way. If you’re wondering how to cover wallpaper with paint, the secret lies in creating a clean, stable base. 

 

  • Start by gently cleaning the wallpaper with a mild detergent solution to remove dust, oils, and any residue that could affect adhesion. 
  • Allow it to dry fully, since moisture trapped under paint never ends well.
  • Next, inspect the surface closely. Press down any lifted seams using wallpaper adhesive and sand down raised or uneven spots to create a smoother finish.
  • Running a thin line of caulk along the edges can also help prevent paint from seeping behind the wallpaper.
  • Finally, apply a high-quality primer or sealer. This is especially important if your wallpaper has bold patterns or darker shades; a stain-blocking primer ensures these don’t show through the final coat.

 

Our Recommendation: For the most reliable base layer, use Birla Opus Style Pro Hide Primer - Water Thinnable Primer. It’s designed to deliver superior hiding power, helping your final coat look smooth and consistent.

 

 

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Onto Wallpaper

 

 

 

 

Once your surface is prepped, here’s how to begin painting onto wallpaper for a finish that looks smooth and fresh.

 

 

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

 

Before you start painting, take a few minutes to set up your space.

 

  • Remove wall décor and move furniture away from the walls.
  • Cover anything remaining with a dust sheet.
  • Use painter’s tape along trims, windows, and door frames to keep edges clean.
  • Ensure the room is well-ventilated while you work.

 

 

Step 2: Clean and Repair the Wallpaper

 

Even if you’ve prepped earlier, do a final check.

 

  • Wipe away any lingering dust.
  • Smooth out lifted seams or small bubbles.
  • Lightly sand areas that feel uneven to ensure your paint glides on effortlessly.

 

 

Step 3: Prime the Wallpaper Surface

 

Priming is the step that decides whether your finish looks smooth or shabby.

 

  • Apply one even coat of a high-adhesion primer using a roller for broad surfaces and a brush for corners.
  • Let the primer dry for at least 6–8 hours for the best results.

 

 

Step 4: Apply the First Coat of Paint

 

Now comes the fun part.

 

  • Use a roller for wide areas and a brush for edges and corners.
  • Apply thin, even coats to avoid streaks or patchiness.
  • Don’t try to achieve full coverage in one go; slow and steady wins here.

 

Pro Tip: Always paint in the direction of the wallpaper seams to prevent lifting.

 

 

Step 5: Let It Dry and Apply a Second Coat

 

  • Once the first coat is fully dry, check for uneven areas or lighter patches.
  • Apply a second coat for a richer colour and a more consistent finish.
  • This layer is usually the one that completes the transformation.

 

Pro Tip: If you hear a slight “crackle” sound when rolling paint, the wallpaper may not be adhering well; pause and inspect.

 

 

Step 6: Inspect and Finish

 

  • Gently peel off the painter’s tape while the paint is still slightly tacky to avoid cracking.
  • Touch up corners or edges if needed.
  • Let the paint cure before placing décor back on the walls.

 

 

Painting on Textured Wallpaper: What You Need to Know

 

 

 

 

Painting on textured wallpaper can work beautifully, but only if you understand what kind of texture you’re dealing with. Here’s how to approach it like a pro:

 

 

1. Assess the Texture

 

  • Subtle textures (like light embossing): These usually paint over well and can create a soft, elegant, layered look.
  • Heavy or deep textures:These may show through even after painting and often need extra prep.

 

 

2. Prep According to Texture Depth

 

  • For heavier textures, consider:
  • A thicker, high-build primer
  • A lightweight skim coat to reduce obvious grooves
  • For mild textures, priming alone is often enough.

 

 

3. Choose the Right Finish

 

  • Matte finishes soften light and hide irregularities.
  • Glossy finishes highlight every bump and are best avoided on textured surfaces.

 

 

Water-Based vs Oil-Based Paint for Wallpaper: Which One Wins?

 

Choosing the right paint makes a noticeable difference when you’re working over wallpaper. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide between water-based vs oil-based paint for wallpaper, depending on your space and the type of wallpaper you’re dealing with.

 

 

 Water-Based Paints

 

  • Easy to work with, and delivers a smooth application and simple cleanup.
  • Quick-drying, which helps when you’re painting in layers.
  • Low odour, making it ideal for bedrooms, living spaces, and smaller rooms.
  • Works beautifully on most wallpapers when paired with a good primer.

 

 

Oil-Based Paints

 

  • Highly durable and resistant to scuff marks and moisture.
  • Ideal for older wallpapers that may need stronger adhesion.
  • Great for moisture-prone areas like kitchens or utility spaces.
  • Requires adequate ventilation because of stronger fumes and slower drying times.

 

Pro Tip: Always do a small patch test before committing to a full wall. This helps you check adhesion, colour payoff, and how the finish interacts with your wallpaper’s surface.

 

 

When Not to Paint Over Wallpaper: Red Flags to Watch For

 

Painting over wallpaper works in many cases, but here are the situations where removal is a better choice:

 

1. The Wallpaper Is Peeling or Bubbling: If it’s coming off in several places, paint won’t fix it. You’ll end up with visible bumps and poor adhesion.

2. It Has a Heavy Texture: Deep embossing or thick patterns will show through even after primer and paint.

3. There’s Water Damage: Dark stains, soft patches, or musty smells mean moisture issues, and painting will only trap the problem.

4. Seams Are Very Noticeable: Separated or raised joints will stay visible no matter how much you sand or prime.

5. It’s Vinyl, Foil, or Fabric Wallpaper: These materials don’t accept paint evenly or reliably. Removal is the safer choice.

6. It’s for a High-Moisture Room: Bathrooms or kitchens with constant humidity can cause painted wallpaper to peel or grow mould.

 

 

Give Your Walls a New Life With the Right Approach

 

Painting onto wallpaper is a practical - and a surprisingly elegant - way to refresh your space without the hassle of removal. 

 

Before you begin, test a small patch to make sure the wallpaper accepts paint well, especially if you’re unsure about adhesion or are working over patterns or texture. And when in doubt, go for reliable, high-performance materials from Birla Opus.

 

Your walls already have personality; our job is to help them express it beautifully.

 

 

Explore The Next Steps

 

Pick Your Colours – Explore the Birla Opus Colour Catalogue and find the perfect shade for your space.

Visualise Your Walls – Try the Birla Opus Visualiser and see how different paints look in real time.

Browse Paint Products – From interiors to exteriors, textures to wood and metal, discover our complete range.

Book Painting Services – Get expert end-to-end painting solutions from Birla Opus professionals.


Opus Assurance – Enjoy superior painting backed by our commitment to quality with easy registration, hassle-free claims, free repainting (product + labour), and the freedom to choose your preferred contractor.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Painting your home is fun and hassle-free when planned well. For that, you must know all about various aspects of the painting process. Find answers to all your paint questions here!

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This Website/ App is owned by Grasim Industries Limited, Birla Paints division (“Grasim”).

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  • Legal Requests: Grasim co-operates with law enforcement inquiries, as well as other third parties to enforce laws relating to matters, such as intellectual property rights, fraud and other rights. We can (and you authorise us to) disclose any personally identifiable information about you to law enforcement and other government officials as we, in our sole discretion, believe reasonably necessary or appropriate, in connection with any investigation.

4.2. Changing Your Personally Identifiable Information

 

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This is the official Website/ App of Grasim Industries Limited and provides general information about Grasim Industries Limited. The information and content are based on the laws applicable in India. While efforts are made to keep the information on this Website/App accurate and timely, Grasim does not guarantee or endorse the content, accuracy or completeness of the information, text, graphics, hyperlinks and other items contained herein or on any other server. This Website/ App and the materials, information, and references to services and products if any herein, including without limitations, text, graphics and links, are provided "as is" without representations or warranties of any kind, whether express or implied. To the fullest extent permissible, Grasim disclaims any warranties, express and/or implied, including but not limited to implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non-infringement, freedom from computer virus and warranties arising from course of dealing or course of performance. Grasim does not represent or warrant that the functions contained in the Website/ App will be uninterrupted or error free, that defects will be corrected or that the Website/App or the server that makes the Website/App available are free of viruses or other harmful components. Grasim does not make any warranties or representations regarding the use of the materials in the Website/App in terms of their completeness, correctness, accuracy, adequacy, usefulness, timeliness, reliability or otherwise. Users, shall always keep indemnified, defend and hold Grasim, its affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, employees and agents harmless, from and against any claims, demands, causes of action, debts or liability, costs and expenses, including, without limitation, attorney's fees, based upon or relating to a third party claim against Grasim arising from any action or inaction of User or for any liability or expense-due to claims for personal injury or damage to property arising out of the fault or negligence of the User. Grasim is not responsible for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages that may arise from the use of or the inability to use, the Website/App and/or the materials contained on the Website/App irrespective of whether the materials contained on the Website/App are provided by Grasim. The contents of this Website/App are subject to change without notice. Commercial use of any of the contents of this Website/App in any manner is prohibited without prior written permission from an authorised person. No reproduction of any part of the Website/App may be sold or distributed for commercial gain nor shall it be modified or incorporated in any other work, publication or Website/App, whether in hardcopy or electronic format, including postings to any other App. Grasim reserves all other rights. No information on this Website/App shall constitute an invitation to invest in the listed companies belonging to the “Aditya Birla Group” conglomerate. Neither Grasim nor the entities belonging to the “Aditya Birla Group” conglomerate, nor their respective officers, employees or agents shall be liable for any loss, damage or expense arising out of any access to or use of this Website/App or any App linked to it, including, without limitation, any loss or profit, loss of business, loss of use, indirect, incidental or consequential loss. By viewing this Website/App you are deemed to agree to jurisdiction of the courts at Mumbai, India in respect of any action arising therefrom or related thereto.

 

If you have any questions about this Policy or other privacy concerns, you can also email us at legal.birlapaints@adityabirla.com

August 2023

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By agreeing to this privacy policy, you agree to receive promotional messages, offers, and updates from the Company via SMS, RCS (Rich communications message service), WhatsApp, etc.

GRASIM INDUSTRIES LIMITED, Birla Paints division

 

9th floor, Birla Centurion, Century Mills Compound, Pandurang Budhkar Marg, Worli, Mumbai– 400030, Maharashtra, India. 
 

Registered Office:
Birlagram, Nagda- 456 331 (M.P.) Tel: (07366) 246760-66, Fax: (07366) 244114, 246024, CIN: L17124MP1947PLC000410  
 

Allwood Contractor App Helpdesk 

Call: 1800 120 1234, Monday to Saturday, 09:30 am – 6:30 pm (Except Public Holidays).

Email: paints.custcare@adityabirla.com

Product Warranty

Terms and Conditions for product warranty registration of Birla Opus products



  1. The Warranty shall be effective from the date of purchase of the Product as per the tax invoice (“Warranty Start Date”), provided that painting work is fully complete, and the Consumer registers the Product for warranty.

  2. The Product must be registered within 15 days from the date of purchase by calling customer care at 18001201234 or registering on www.birlaopus.com and furnishing purchase details as required during the Warranty registration.

  3. The Warranty shall be valid for parameters and period as defined in the respective product warranty document (‘Warranty Period’) from the Warranty Start Date. 

  4. Upon settlement of any claim, Warranty of replaced Product will not start afresh, and will continue for the remainder of the Warranty Period from the Warranty Start Date.

  5. If there is a break/ lag in completing the painting work, the registration of the Warranty and Warranty Start Date will be determined by the Company at its sole discretion.

  6. The Company may appoint a person to examine and confirm the application of the Product as per the directions specified prior to registering the Warranty.

  7. For registering of Warranty, where quantity of Product purchase is equal to or more than 200 litres, please call our Helpline on 1800 120 1234 with requisite details. The registration of Warranty in such cases is subject to a satisfactory pre‐inspection at site by Company’s representative.

  8. For the warranty to be applicable:
    1. Minimum volume of the product required to be purchased needs to be met
    2. Birla Opus recommended system needs to be used
    3. Product coverage and application guidelines need to be adhered
       

For more details, please refer to respective  product specific warranty document and product information sheet.

  1. Consumer may raise a claim within 30 days of discovering issue(s) noticed on the affected areas based on Warranty Parameters/ scope

  2. The Consumer is required to notify the Company of the issue(s) noticed along with the invoice details, sample pictures and basis for Warranty invocation by contacting the customer care at 1800 120 1234. The Consumer shall provide such additional details as required by the Company and/or allow the Company to visit/inspect the painting site either in portion or entirety at the Company’s discretion.  

  3. In case where the Company decides that the Warranty is applicable on the issue(s) noticed on the affected areas, the Company shall bear the Replacements Costs as detailed in respective product warranty document to repair/ repaint the affected areas.

  4. Replacement Costs shall mean the cost of material and labour required to correct the affected portions, as determined by the Company.

  5. In case where the Company decides that Warranty is not applicable, the same shall be communicated to the Consumer.

  6. Warranty is applicable only to the affected area where the Product is used in accordance with application guidelines and not to the rest of the areas.

  7. In case the Consumer carries out repair works on the areas covered under the Warranty, the same shall be at their own risk and the Company’s Warranty on the Product shall not be valid on such repaired areas.

  8. The Warranty will cover only manufacturing defects of the Product and will not cover any defects arising out of factors not in control of the Company. For more details of exclusions, please refer to the warranty document of respective product. 

  9. Except expressly stated, the Company disclaims any liabilities whether in contract, tort or otherwise. The Company makes no warranty regarding merchantability or fitness of products for any particular purpose. 

  10. The Company shall not be held liable towards loss or damages of incidental, indirect or consequential nature or for any value more than the tax invoice value. 

  11. In case of any disputes, exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Mumbai shall apply. Governing laws shall be Laws of India.

  12. The facts and all matters concerning any Warranty/ claim/ dispute will always be kept confidential by both the Consumer and the Company.