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Glam Journal

Can you paint over silk wallpaper?

Author

Elijah King

Updated on April 06, 2026

Can you paint over silk wallpaper?

3 Answers from MyBuilder Painters & Decorators Yes, you can paint over no problem. You shouldn’t need to key the surface as it would cause damage to the wallpaper.

What is the best primer to cover wallpaper?

You’ll want to use an oil-based primer over the wallpaper before you paint. Oil-based primers can take longer to dry and the smell will be overbearing, but there are now some fast drying options available. “Oil-based primer will block anything coming through,” Snyder says.

How do you paint silk wallpaper?

  1. STEP 1: Clean the wallpaper-covered walls with diluted TSP.
  2. STEP 2: Add extra adhesive beneath the paper’s top and bottom edges, then prime.
  3. STEP 3: Wait for the primer to dry before painting over wallpaper.
  4. STEP 4: Apply your first coat of oil-based paint.
  5. STEP 5: Let dry completely and complete a second coat.

What kind of paint can you use on wallpaper?

You can use any kind of paint that you would use on your walls to achieve the look you want with paintable wallpaper. While we aren’t paint experts, we do know that this wallpaper has been easily used with a variety of paints and finishes.

Can you use water based paint on wallpaper?

Water-based paints and primer may reactivate the wallpaper glue resulting in unwanted peeling. To avoid, prime wallpaper with an oil-based primer to seal the surface. Step 1. Secure loose seams with wallpaper paste so they lie flat.

Do you need to use primer to paint over wallpaper?

Potentially use a primer – If the colour of the wallpaper is very bold, or is of questionable quality on the surface, using a good primer will allow the paint a good base to sit on. We’d recommended using Zinsser Wallpaper Cover Up.

What to use to seal seams in wallpaper?

To avoid, prime wallpaper with an oil-based primer to seal the surface. Secure loose seams with wallpaper paste so they lie flat. Remove any residue, dirt or grime from the wallpaper. Even out wallpaper seams by applying drywall mud to the seams, allowing to dry and sanding smooth.

What kind of paint to use over wallpaper?

Can be used under any coloured emulsion. It’s worth noting that this will leave the wall with a nice, flat matt finish. To get the most protection possible, and if you’re adding some colour, we’d recommened painting over the wall again in Dulux Trade Diamond Matt.

Water-based paints and primer may reactivate the wallpaper glue resulting in unwanted peeling. To avoid, prime wallpaper with an oil-based primer to seal the surface. Step 1. Secure loose seams with wallpaper paste so they lie flat.

What kind of sandpaper do you use to cover drywall?

Sand the drywall compound with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth it and make it level with the wallpaper surface. Wipe the wallpaper with a damp cloth to remove sanding dust. Wash the wallpaper with a degreasing cleaner and damp cloth. Follow the degreaser package directions. Bob Vila suggests using trisodium phosphate (TSP).

To avoid, prime wallpaper with an oil-based primer to seal the surface. Secure loose seams with wallpaper paste so they lie flat. Remove any residue, dirt or grime from the wallpaper. Even out wallpaper seams by applying drywall mud to the seams, allowing to dry and sanding smooth.