How to Calculate Wallpaper: Avoid Costly Mistakes
Ordering the wrong amount of wallpaper is a common and expensive mistake. Too little means mismatched dye lots; too much wastes money. Our wallpaper calculator takes the guesswork out of your project.
Why Accurate Calculation Matters
Wallpaper is produced in batches called dye lots. Even the same pattern can vary slightly between lots. If you run short mid-project and reorder, the new rolls may not match perfectly. Conversely, over-ordering by too much ties up budget that could go toward other improvements.
Key Measurements Needed
You'll need wall height, total wall width (all walls combined minus windows and doors), and the wallpaper's pattern repeat distance. Pattern repeat is crucial, as large repeating patterns waste more material during matching. Our wallpaper calculator handles all these variables.
Understanding Pattern Repeat
Pattern repeat is the distance between identical design elements. A 24-inch repeat means every 24 inches, the pattern starts over. Larger repeats require more wallpaper because you'll trim more waste aligning patterns. Straight-match patterns are easier than drop-match patterns.
The 10% Rule
Always order 10-15% extra for cutting waste, pattern matching, and future repairs. This buffer is especially important for complex patterns or rooms with many windows and doors that require careful cutting around.
Use our wallpaper calculator for instant, accurate estimates. It factors in room dimensions, pattern repeat, and waste allowance to tell you exactly how many rolls to order.
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