Julian Cassell's DIY Blog

How to wallpaper a chimney breast is no different in technique from any other wall except you just need to consider where the best starting point may be, which is often dictated by the size of pattern on your chosen wallpaper. For large-patterned wallpapers it is important to make sure the most prominent part of the design or motif is centralized on the chimney breast to provide the most balanced effect. read more »

Where to start wallpapering in a room can often cause a touch of anxiety, but basically you just need to follow a few simple rules. A decision on the best starting point is often dependent on the size and type of pattern in your chosen wallpaper. Basically any large pattern may well require centralizing the main motif on the most prominent wall in the room, which is normally one containing a chimney breast. read more »

Wallpaper seams and edges tend to lift and peel because the paper was not properly stuck down in the first place. When wallpaper is applied it is essential to check that all the edges have had sufficient paste applied, as even the smallest ‘dry’ patch will soon begin to lift or curl away from the wall. Lifting also commonly occurs on overlaps. read more »

Oil provides a natural finish to bare wood, and is similar to wax in that it is a deep penetrating option that can be buffed up to a smooth mid sheen finish. Wood must be totally stripped of any previous coatings before application. Unlike wax, oil can be used outside if specified by the manufacturer, but it does need regular re-coating in order to maintain the colour of the wood. Oil is most commonly used on hardwoods. read more »

Wax provides another option for finishing bare wood in the home. The products available range from the natural waxes through to synthetic varieties, and there are also a number of different colours to suit different tastes. Traditionally, wax is applied with a cloth, but it is now possible to buy types designed to be applied by brush. Wood surfaces must be completely stripped of all other coatings before wax is applied. read more »