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Is it possible to repair wallpaper that has some bubbles (approx. 2 – 3 inches)? It appears that these are spots where the adhesive did not take, or the installer did not smooth out sufficiently. This is embossed paper (no vinyl in it) on a ceiling on an old house. The paper is painted. I was wondering if the paper could be cut through the bubbles, add some adhesive underneath, smooth over the top with a bit of drywall compound, and repaint. I’d like to avoid taking down the paper completely and re-installing if that’s feasible, but I don’t want to make a bigger mess than is already there. There are probably about 5 of these bubbles. Thanks!
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You can inject some paste into the bubble with a syringe. Most places that sell wallpapering supplies will carry syringes for this purpose. I have been told that a large syringe can be bought at farm supply stores also.
Inject the paste and work it around. It is possible that a cut will need to be made to let the air out (but the hole from the syringe should suffice) and to help take up slack. If you must make a cut, carefully cut along the edge of the embossing and it will be invisible.
I don't know why you would need any drywall compound here.
Rich Beckman
*Rich stole my thunder. Give it a shot of elmer's white glue. Jeff