The Property Brothers Reveal The Tools They Won't Apply Wallpaper Without

Drew and Jonathan Scott are no strangers to using wallpaper to spruce up a room, doing so regularly on their hit television show, "The Property Brothers" (and its subsequent spin-offs), since its premiere in 2011. In fact, the pair introduced their own peel-and-stick wallpaper line, Scott Living, for Lowes in 2017 to bring their favorite designs to the public. While peel-and-stick wallpaper is a versatile, removable option perfect for renters, DIYers nervous about installing traditional wallpaper, and commitment-phobes alike, there is one major drawback to peel-and-stick wallpaper: the air bubbles or wrinkles that can be created during improper installation.

For this reason, the Property Brothers took to their YouTube channel to share the essential tools they use for every peel-and-stick wallpaper job so you can install any paper like a pro. The basic tools they recommend, which include a tape measure, level, pencil, utility knife, long straight-edge ruler, plastic smoothing tool, and ladder, are simple items most homeowners likely have on hand. Follow the lead of the Scott brothers to tackle your next peel-and-stick wallpaper job with the right tools and ease, transforming your space in a matter of hours.

When installing peel-and-stick paper, begin by using the tape measure, pencil, and straight-edge to measure, mark, and draw a vertical guide line for your first strip. Using the Property Brothers' YouTube installation tips, place your first piece of wallpaper, pushing out any bubbles with the plastic smoothing tool. Once all bubbles and wrinkles have been smoothed out, trim the top (using the ladder to reach the ceiling), bottom, and corner as needed with the utility knife and straight edge. Repeat this process for each wallpaper strip, matching the pattern to the previous strip and overlapping slightly for a seamless installation.

What if you don't have these basic tools on hand? In lieu of a pencil and straight-edge to create a guideline, a laser level can make quick work of the job, while a step stool could work in place of a ladder for a lower ceiling. Without a plastic smoothing tool, a credit card, plastic paint scraper, or common cleaning squeegee can help install wallpaper in a pinch. Sharp scissors can trim wallpaper in place of a utility knife, though you may have to crease the paper where you want the cut, pull it away from the wall a bit, trim, and smooth it back in place. With these basic tools as recommended by the Scotts, as well as an extra set of hands (luckily the Property Brothers come in a pair!), your next peel-and-stick wallpaper installation will be a smooth success.