MetraNestWhy area alone is not enough
A roll may contain several square metres of paper but provide only three strips at the required height. Leftover pieces cannot always replace a full strip. Dividing wall area by roll area may therefore underestimate the purchase.
Pattern repeat and trimming allowance
The trimming allowance is added to the wall height. For a straight match, this length is rounded up to the next multiple of the pattern repeat. The initial reserve separately allows for locating the first motif on each roll. Enter a zero repeat for plain wallpaper. Drop matches and murals need a specific plan.
One continuous wall at a time
The model covers one continuous wall. For several walls, count the strips for each separately: adding widths before rounding may underestimate the strips if side offcuts cannot be reused. Then check corners, the starting motif and openings on a sketch.
Strips = wall width ÷ roll width, rounded up. Strip length = height + trimming allowance, rounded to the straight pattern repeat. Strips per roll = whole number from (roll length − initial reserve) ÷ strip length.
A pattern that changes the number of rolls
For a 4 m wall, rolls measuring 0.53 × 10.05 m, a height of 2.50 m and a 0.10 m trimming allowance, you need eight strips. With a straight pattern repeat of 0.64 m and 0.64 m reserved at the start of each roll, each strip is 3.20 m long. Two strips fit in the usable 9.41 m: four rolls are needed.
Details to check
- Check the pattern-match symbol on the label.
- Check that a strip’s height is shorter than the roll length.
- When buying several rolls, check product references and batch numbers.
Frequently asked questions
Should I subtract the doorway?
Not automatically: a strip may need to continue above the door. Reduce the requirement only after drawing the cuts.
Is the result suitable for a drop match?
No. Alternating motifs may change the cutting lengths. Use the layout or calculation recommended for that wallpaper.
Method and references · Editorial review: 25 October 2026
The geometric formulas are explained here. For a product, its packaging dimensions and coverage rate remain the reference inputs.