What is Lining Paper Used For?

You don't have to be a professional decorator to achieve a flawless finish. Simply invest in some high-quality lining paper that will disguise damage and smooth uneven surfaces.

Lining paper is a fuss-free way to revolutionise your interiors. Not only is it easy to apply for beginner DIYers, but it hides a multitude of sins, including hairline cracks. Best of all, it's available in several thicknesses to suit different wall conditions.

If you're new to lining paper, don't worry. Keep reading as we run through everything you need to know about this must-have decorating tool.

What is lining paper?

Lining paper is hung before decorating to provide a plaster-like base for paint and wallpaper. Thanks to the impeccable coverage, you'll be able to breathe new life into your space without stressing over the final result.

While lining paper isn't appropriate for structural damage or severe corrosion, it's the perfect solution for hairline cracks, shallow holes and bumpy surfaces. It comes in various thicknesses to blanket blemishes, with higher-grade paper (between 1700 and 2000) being best for well-worn walls.

What is lining paper used for?

Whether you're applying paint or wallpaper, lining paper can be the difference between a hack job and a professional finish. Alongside smoothing walls and hiding superficial damage, it boasts unbelievable heat-regulating properties for cold, north-facing rooms.

1. Smoothing surfaces

Lining paper delivers a flat finish that looks immaculate every time. It's convenient if you live in an old building because it seamlessly covers walls that have been redecorated and replastered.

Worried about the extent of the damage? We suggest plastering and filling before using lining paper to tackle extreme deterioration. Otherwise, it'll be like sticking a plaster over a large, open wound!

2. Hiding superficial damage

There's nothing more annoying than coming home after a long day's work to scruffy walls that whisk away your zen. Luckily, you don't have to suffer in silence. As well as smoothing surfaces for effortless application, lining paper covers superficial damage for a more pleasing aesthetic.

For a quick touch-up, choose a lightweight lining paper like Erfurt MAV 800 Grade. Despite being a lower grade, it offers superb tensile strength and conceals the nastiest cracks. Searching for something bulkier? Erfurt MAV 2000 Grade Professional Lining Paper rejuvenates plaster walls and ceilings with ultra-rough textures.

If you don't know which grade is best, choose the middle ground. Lining papers with a 1400 grade are usually sufficient to hide daily wear.

3. Preventing stains

You don't want to spend bucket loads of money and time decorating only to end up with unsightly stains. That's where lining paper can help – it's a protective barrier that prevents substances on the wall from leaching into the wallpaper or paint.

Plus, when you apply adhesive paste to wallpaper, the added moisture can cause bleeding. Lining paper combats this by speeding up the drying process to keep colours looking fresh.

4. Evening out porosity for better paint coverage

When you paint straight over walls, the porosity could impact the coverage. Even with the best primer, you'll probably have to apply dozens of coats to accomplish a pretty, patch-free finish.

There's no need to worry about paint seeping into the walls when you use lining paper. It's suitable for all emulsion paints, but matte emulsions work particularly well because they're better at hiding minor imperfections.

5. Minimising wallpaper shrinkage

Most wallpapers, especially textured or woven styles, expand and shrink during the decorating process. As you apply the adhesive, the wet paper balloons. When it dries, it'll return to its original size.

This constant fluctuation is a DIYer's worst nightmare because it can cause split seams, gaps between the sheets and bubbling underneath the surface – all of which would take you back to the drawing board.

Thankfully, lining paper is the answer to your wallpaper woes. It dries much faster and absorbs most of the moisture to eliminate unwanted movement.

6. Protecting against wear and tear

If you paint or wallpaper over bare walls, you might experience peeling and flaking. However, lining paper is made with the sole intention to keep your interiors looking brand-new for as long as possible – your hard work will last for many years to come.

7. Improving insulation

Feeling a bit chilly? Lining paper provides additional layers of insulation that'll keep you toasty come the blustery winter months. It traps air between the paper and the wall, containing draughts to keep your home warmer for longer. Perhaps most importantly, you'll also save money on your next energy bill.

What are the different types of lining paper?

Now you know what lining paper is used for, it's time to decide which type is best for you. You can choose between standard lining paper or paste the wall lining paper, depending on your personal preference. 

Standard lining paper has a few extra steps before it's ready to apply, including soaking the sheets with adhesive to avoid bubbles and a bad finish. Nevertheless, it's a highly durable and cost-effective product that's excellent at camouflaging damage.

Paste the wall lining paper is a superior alternative. You don't have to pre-soak the sheets because the added textile fibres stick to surfaces effortlessly. Without the extra step, you only need to paste the adhesive directly onto your walls. Before you know it, you'll be ready to turn your DIY dreams into a reality.

Make decorating a doddle with our premium lining paper

Decorating is easier than ever with our extensive collection of premium lining paper. There's a wealth of incredible options available to meet your specific requirements, and we strive to offer great prices without compromising quality. To prove our commitment to you, we also offer free next day delivery on orders over £100 to mainland UK addresses.

If you still have any questions about lining paper, take a look at our FAQ guide on lining paper. If you have any questions or would like to know more about our range, contact our friendly team today. You can call us on 0800 009 6474 or email info@coveryourwall.co.uk.