Seamlessly Chic: Understanding Wallpaper Seams and Why Double Cuts Create a Flawless Finish
When it comes to wallpaper, the beauty is in the details — and that includes how the seams are handled. If you’ve ever admired a perfectly papered wall and wondered why it looks so effortlessly polished, chances are the seams were expertly executed.
At Sunday Social Club, we specialize in high-end, textured wallcoverings — from luxurious grasscloth to organic paperweaves — and when you’re working with textured or patterned wallpaper, seam style matters a lot. Different seam techniques can create different effects, and understanding the difference between them is key to achieving that perfect, professional finish.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common types of wallpaper seams and why double cut seams, in particular, are the secret to achieving a truly seamless look.
Types of Wallpaper Seams
When wallpaper is installed, the edges of each strip need to meet in a way that minimizes visibility and ensures the pattern or texture lines up beautifully. The type of seam used depends on the type of wallpaper and the overall design goals.
1. Butt Seams
This is the most common type of wallpaper seam, especially for non-textured wallpapers.
✅ How It Works:
- Two strips of wallpaper are installed side by side, with the edges “butted” up against each other without any overlap.
- The goal is to have the edges touch perfectly without any gaps or overlaps.
✅ When It Works:
- Ideal for smooth, non-textured wallpapers where pattern alignment is straightforward.
- Works well with wallpapers that have little to no texture.
✅ The Downside:
- Butt seams can sometimes be more visible, especially with heavily textured papers or grasscloth, where the edges might lift slightly over time.
2. Overlapping Seams
With overlapping seams, one strip of wallpaper slightly overlaps the edge of the next strip.
✅ How It Works:
- One edge of the wallpaper is laid over the edge of the adjacent strip.
- The installer carefully smooths the overlap to avoid ridges or uneven texture.
✅ When It Works:
- Used mostly with vinyl or commercial-grade wallpapers that are thicker and less delicate.
- Rarely used with high-end designer wallpapers since the overlap can be visible and disrupt the flow of the pattern.
✅ The Downside:
- Overlapping seams can create noticeable ridges or texture variations — not ideal for achieving a high-end look.
3. Double Cut Seams (The Seam of Choice for High-End Wallpapers)
If you’re working with textured wallpapers like grasscloth, linen, or paperweave, a double cut seam is the gold standard — but it requires skill, patience, and a steady hand.
Double cutting creates an almost invisible seam by cutting through both layers of overlapping wallpaper simultaneously. This allows the two edges to fit together perfectly, creating a virtually seamless look.
Why Double Cut Seams Are the Best for Textured Wallpapers
- Works beautifully with textured, patterned, and natural wallpapers.
- Ensures that the pattern lines up perfectly without gaps or overlaps.
- Prevents edges from curling or lifting over time (a common issue with textured papers).
- Creates a cleaner, more tailored finish that looks professional and polished.
How to Execute a Perfect Double Cut Seam
Double cut seams require precision — this is not a beginner-friendly technique! That’s why we always recommend working with a professional installer who has experience with textured wallcoverings and double cutting.
Here’s how the process works:
Step 1: Overlap the Wallpaper Panels
- The two strips of wallpaper are installed with a slight overlap (usually about 2 inches).
- The overlap ensures that the pattern lines up correctly.
Step 2: Make the Cut
- Using a sharp utility knife and a straightedge, the installer carefully cuts down the middle of the overlap, slicing through both layers of wallpaper simultaneously.
- This requires a very steady hand — if the cut is crooked or uneven, the seam will be visible.
Step 3: Remove the Excess
- After cutting, the excess wallpaper from both strips is gently removed.
- The two freshly cut edges now fit together perfectly, with no visible gap.
Step 4: Seal the Seam
- The installer smooths the seam using a wallpaper roller or smoothing tool to ensure the edges lay flat.
- In some cases, a thin layer of adhesive or seam sealer is applied to keep the edges secure over time.
Why Double Cut Seams Require an Expert Touch
Double cutting is a high-skill technique — even a slight slip of the knife can result in visible gaps or misaligned patterns. That’s why it’s essential to hire an experienced wallpaper installer who knows how to work with textured papers and understands the delicate nature of grasscloth and paperweave.
At Sunday Social Club, all of our wallpapers — from bold botanicals to subtle paperweaves — are designed to make a statement. A poorly executed seam can detract from the impact of the design, which is why we always recommend working with a pro.
Pro Tips for a Seamless Install
✔️ Hire an experienced installer — Not all installers are comfortable working with grasscloth or textured paper. Be sure to ask about their experience with double cut seams.
✔️ Order extra paper — Double cutting requires more paper since you’re trimming down the overlap. Most installers recommend ordering an extra 20% to account for cutting and pattern matching.
✔️ Inspect your rolls before cutting — Make sure all of your rolls are from the same batch and that the pattern and color match perfectly.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Wallpaper is an investment — and when installed correctly, it has the power to completely transform a room. Whether you’re creating a coastal-inspired retreat with grasscloth or adding a botanical pop with a bold print, double cut seams will give you the polished, professional look that high-end wallpaper deserves.
At Sunday Social Club, we specialize in designer textured wallpaper and luxury wallcoverings — all crafted with eco-friendly materials and designed to make a statement. Browse our collection and start planning your dream space today!