How do I remove wallpaper from plaster walls?

Answer by  HandyDad (17)

Scratch through the outer layer of wallpaper with trimming blade or other sharp edge in random directions exposing the adhesive underneath. Apply small amounts of water from a spray bottle loosening the adhesive. Wait a few minutes, begin removing wallpaper at cut edges with putty knife. Reapply water as needed.

Answer by  tyler13 (92)

I found that a spray bottle with half water and half liquid fabric softner worked really well. Once you mix the two in your spray bottle spray on the wallpaper and allow it to sit for a minute or two then use your scraper to remove the paper.

Answer by  Serafinah (232)

Using a good product designed to dissolve the wallpaper plaster is KEY! Also, scoring the walls (using a sharp object to poke holes through the old paper) allows the product to get behind the old paper and speeds things up.

Answer by  Marybeth (841)

Use an 16 ounce spray water bottle, add a small amount of fabric softner, 1 ounce. Spray the walls lightly in a small area, let sit for a few minutes, then use a plastic putty knife to gentle remove the paper. Any areas of paper that stick - reapply and repeat.

Answer by  CarolynOsborne (2804)

Chances are, if you have plaster walls, you also have old, non-stripping wall paper. You can get a gadget that scores the wall paper so you can soak it in water and that can help. But mainly you have to use elbow grease and a scraper. Be patient.