Measuring your walls is the most important step in ordering wallpaper, and it does not have to feel overwhelming. Whether you are wallpapering one accent wall or an entire room, getting accurate measurements upfront helps you order the right amount and install with confidence.
This guide walks you through exactly how to measure your walls for peel and stick wallpaper, what to watch out for, and how to avoid the most common mistakes people make.
If you are brand new to wallpaper, you may want to start with our Ultimate Guide to Peel and Stick Wallpaper, which explains how peel and stick wallpaper works and what to expect before you buy.
What You Need Before You Measure
You only need a few simple tools:
- A tape measure
- A pen and paper or notes app
- A step stool if needed
No special tools or math skills required.
Step 1: Measure the Width of Your Wall
Start by measuring the full width of the wall from one end to the other.
Measure:
- From corner to corner
- Or from trim edge to trim edge
- Always measure in inches for the most accurate results.
Important tip:
Do not assume walls are perfectly straight. Measure the width in at least two places and use the largest measurement.
Step 2: Measure the Height of Your Wall
Next, measure the height of the wall.
Measure:
- From the floor to the ceiling
- Or from the top of trim to the ceiling if you have baseboards
Again, measure in more than one spot and use the tallest measurement.
This ensures you have enough wallpaper even if ceilings are slightly uneven.
Step 3: Account for Doors, Windows, and Slopes
You do not need to subtract doors or windows when ordering wallpaper.
Wallpaper is installed in full panels, and cutouts are made during installation. Ordering based on full wall measurements ensures pattern alignment and avoids coming up short.
If you are working with:
- Sloped ceilings
- Stairways
- Multiple wall sections
Measure each section separately and note them individually.
Step 4: Determine How Many Panels You Need
Peel and stick wallpaper is installed in vertical panels.
To determine how many panels you need:
- Take your total wall width
- Divide it by the panel width
- Round up to the nearest whole number
Always round up. Ordering extra is far better than running short.
If math is not your thing, this is where our wallpaper calculator comes in. Simply enter your wall width and height, and it will do the work for you.
Step 5: Order a Little Extra
We always recommend ordering a little extra wallpaper.
Extra panels allow for:
- Pattern alignment
- Slight wall irregularities
- Future repairs or touch ups
Having one extra panel on hand gives peace of mind, especially for first time installers.
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
Here are the most common issues we see:
- Measuring only once
- Using the shortest height instead of the tallest
- Subtracting windows and doors
- Forgetting to account for sloped ceilings
- Ordering the exact amount with no extra
Avoiding these mistakes makes installation smoother and far less stressful.
Should You Order a Sample Before Measuring?
Yes. Samples help you confirm:
- Pattern scale
- Color in your lighting
- Material feel
They also allow you to test the wallpaper on your wall surface before committing to a full order.
Many customers order samples first, then measure and order with total confidence.
How Measuring Fits Into the Bigger Picture
Measuring is just one step in a successful wallpaper project.
If you want the full picture, our Ultimate Guide to Peel and Stick Wallpaper walks through planning, installation, durability, and what makes high quality wallpaper worth it.
Helpful Next Steps
Ready to move forward?
- Try our wallpaper calculator
- Order samples to see designs in your space
- Browse all peel and stick wallpaper designs
Taking a few extra minutes to measure properly now will save time, money, and frustration later.
Peel. Stick. Love your space!
