What do I need to know about covering surfaces with contact paper?
by
Hillela G.
+20
I am really intrigued by the idea of upgrading some of the surfaces in my apt with contact paper.
What do I need to know? What is the best method to apply it? How do I maintain it? Do I need to seal it with something?
I am really pretty ignorant on the topic but I have seen such wonderful projects here on Hometalk, so I'm hoping to try as well!
Thank you everyone :)
What do I need to know? What is the best method to apply it? How do I maintain it? Do I need to seal it with something?
I am really pretty ignorant on the topic but I have seen such wonderful projects here on Hometalk, so I'm hoping to try as well!
Thank you everyone :)
17 answers
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www.decoist.com/2014-03-17/contact-paper-diy-...
Janet Pizaro
on Sep 04, 2016
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contact paper is the easiest way to change the look. Just peel and stick. No sealing needed.
Linda H
on Sep 04, 2016
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If you look for "repositionable" Contact paper (or other brand) you can do whatever your heart desires. When you're tired of it, it's more easily removed than the old-style Contact paper. If using on a kitchen counter remember it won't withstand heat any better than a formica countertop does. Use the same caution as formica countertops. I used some wood-grain repositionable Contact paper on a kitchen counter right next to the stove. It looked great and wore extremely well.
CK
on Sep 04, 2016
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HINT: Be sure to clean well first and use a tack cloth. Any little stray bump will show through.
Trudy
on Sep 05, 2016
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You need to have a smooth surface to stick it on. Something slick and non-porous, like satin or shiny paint, laminate furniture, plastic or glass works best. Just try a little piece ahead of time. You don't need to seal it, just stick it on.
Darla
on Sep 05, 2016
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Ensure that it never gets near anything hot - double up & use hot pad under any trivets, keep coasters nearby for hot mugs. Don't use abrasive or strong cleaners.
Karen Williams
on Sep 05, 2016
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Be prepared that over time the contact paper shrinks. I've had several projects that looked good...but only for a few years. If possible extend the edges of the paper to where they won't be seen or expect to redo the project.
Maggie the Mower
on Sep 05, 2016
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Be sure surface is clean and dry. Move slowly and do not take backing except in small pieces at one time. It's kind of staticy and clings to itself if given a chance. If you don't have patience to spare try something else.
Deanna Nassar
on Sep 05, 2016
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I hate being the devil's advocate! However, don't use contact on surfaces if you live in a rental apt. It's a mess to remove and they will charge you for the removal process. EK
Eileen
on Sep 05, 2016
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Clean your surface completely and then wipe with rubbing alcohol to remove any residue and the contact paper will stick on very well.
Brenda Hand-Amunrud
on Sep 05, 2016
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I don't know what surfaces you are refering to, but does not sound like a good idea to me.I would not do it.
Barbara C
on Sep 05, 2016
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I used a wallpaper smoother on a bathroom vanity to contact paper. Pull the backing off slowly and smooth. Still have it in use after 20+ years and still happy with it in my retro bathroom.
Linda Santo
on Sep 05, 2016
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I have used contact paper on lots of things, it works and looks real good. Be careful, go slow and have a towel or sponge handy to smooth out as you apply to your surface .
Barbara Brigham
on Sep 05, 2016
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I Love Contact Paper, I Spritz on some water first, The paper is then adjustable, when You Squeegee out the air bubbles the water comes with it. Makes the job so much easier. Hope this helps.
Loretta Marie
on Sep 06, 2016
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Don't forget to keep a pin handy for some of those pesky air bubbles that refuse to go away! Please post your finished product, inquiring Hometalkers want to see! :)
RichandTammy Whiteside
on Sep 07, 2016
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I have heard that necessity is the mother of invention , I say that she is the Mother of Many things. I cannot tell you the number of times that I have updated our apartments , homes and so much more with contact paper . Walls , floors , appliances , cabinets . cardboard boxes , I am 62 , well soon , and have lived in so many rentals that it was such an easy way to. hide some things , enhance others. My storage room floor in one place was clean , but mottled and yellow tile . I covered the whole thing with wood grain contact paper, It looked like I had put in a new floor . It improved it so much . The landlord asked me to please leave it .
Tim
on Sep 08, 2016
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When I have used to line inside cabinets that was used for large pots, I only removed about one inch border. That way, when I moved or wanted a change, it was not attached to the whole bottom of the cabinet.
Sheila D
on Sep 10, 2016
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