How to remove Wallpaper from old Plaster Walls

It's not easy to remove wallpaper from old plaster walls! I know as my daughter and I have worked at it for the past week in our over 100 years old farmhouse. This post is based upon my experience thus far.

• Remove wallpaper. Using a wallpaper steamer remover is best.
• Seal old plaster with oil-based primer such as Kilz oil-base primer     
• Repair all imperfections (Large cracks should be opened up and filled with plaster patch or use joint tape and plaster made from 80% drywall compound and 20% Plaster of Paris. Feather the plaster out smoothly.)
• Sand the repaired areas then prime with acrylic primer

Note: To finish your walls with my Venetian Plaster made from lime and marble dust follow the directions in my How to Venetian Plaster You Walls post.

Plastering Tools (This is only a suggested list. If doing a Venetian Plaster finish, you’ll need Venetian Plaster tools.)

• Stainless steel plastering trowel
• Plastering corner trowel – This is a must to finish corner edges.
• Hawk
• Plaster mixing bucket or tub for larger jobs
• Plastering float     
• Straight edge Straight edges are used to check to see if the service is level
• Tarp – To protect floors and furnishings

Know your plaster. Learn the methods of applying plaster BEFORE attempting it.

This post is simply my method for plaster repair. I take no responsibility for anyone’s success or failure at mixing their own plaster or for the use or storage of it. Lime and lime-based plaster is caustic. Handle with care! Keep it away from children.