Paperhanger

Your Fit

Income

$48K

Preparation

Some

Growth

3.7%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Paperhanger?

A Paperhanger is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in hanging wallpaper and other wall coverings in residential and commercial spaces. They expertly prepare surfaces, measure, cut, and apply wallpaper to achieve a precise and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Sample job titles:

Bill Poster, Paper Hanger, Paperhanger, Wallpaper Hanger

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Paperhanger.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Paperhanger earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$35K per year	$41K per year	$48K per year	$58K per year	$70K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $1.24K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Paperhanger do?

Work environment

Paperhangers typically work indoors in various settings such as homes, offices, hotels, and other buildings. The job can involve working in different environments, often requiring travel between multiple sites. Work conditions may vary depending on the space's size and the type of wall covering being applied.

Quick task list

Measures spaces and prepares walls for wallpaper application.
Cuts and trims wallpaper to fit designated spaces.
Applies adhesive and hangs wallpaper with precision.
Smooths out bubbles and seams for a polished finish.
Consults with clients about designs and materials.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Residential Paperhanging: Specializing in wallpapering for homes and apartments.
Commercial Paperhanging: Working on large-scale projects in business and hospitality settings.
Decorative Wall Covering: Applying specialty papers and fabrics for high-end decorative finishes.
Restoration Paperhanging: Specializing in the restoration of historic wallpapers in heritage buildings.
Eco-Friendly Paperhanging: Using sustainable and environmentally friendly materials and practices.

Description

Paperhanging is a profession that combines technical skill with artistic ability. Paperhangers need to have a keen eye for detail and design, as they often work with intricate patterns that require precise alignment. They must understand various types of wallpaper materials and adhesives and how they interact with different wall surfaces.

The role requires careful measurement and calculation to ensure that wallpaper patterns match up and the finished product looks seamless. It's a physically demanding job, often involving standing for long periods, climbing ladders, and working in various postures. Paperhangers need to be meticulous in their work, ensuring that each project is completed to a high standard.

As trends in interior design evolve, paperhangers may need to stay informed about the latest styles and techniques. The occupation offers a sense of satisfaction from transforming spaces and the opportunity to work creatively with a range of designs and materials.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Transforming and enhancing interior spaces with beautiful wall coverings.
The creative aspect of working with diverse designs and materials.
Visible and tangible results from meticulous work.
Opportunities for specialization in high-end or historic wall coverings.

You might make a good Paperhanger if you are...

Detail-oriented with a passion for interior design.
Skilled in precision work and have a steady hand.
Patient and enjoy working methodically.
Physically fit, able to work in varying positions and handle ladders.
Interested in learning and keeping up with design trends and new wallpaper materials.

Pros:

Creative and satisfying work with visible results.
Opportunities for specialization and working on unique projects.
Potential to be self-employed and manage your own projects.

Cons:

Physically demanding work that may involve awkward positions.
Exposure to adhesives and chemicals requiring safety precautions.
May have fluctuating work opportunities based on design trends and construction cycles.

How to become a Paperhanger

Typical education

No formal schooling beyond a high school diploma is typically required. Most paperhangers learn their trade on the job or through apprenticeships. Some may attend vocational schools or participate in courses offered by industry associations, which can last a few months to a year.

High school preparation

Courses:

Art and design classes to develop an eye for aesthetics.
Geometry for understanding patterns and precise measurements.
Shop or vocational courses related to painting and decorating.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining arts and crafts clubs to gain experience in working with different materials.
Volunteering for community projects or theater groups, assisting with set design and decoration.
Engaging in detailed hobbyist activities like model building or sewing.

Preparation after high school

Attending vocational training or workshops in wallpapering and interior decorating.
Seeking apprenticeship opportunities with experienced paperhangers.
Gaining experience through part-time work or internships in interior design or painting and decorating.

More resources

National Guild of Professional Paperhangers (NGPP) - Offers resources, training, and networking opportunities.
Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) - Provides education and support for painting and decorating professionals.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Safety guidelines for working with adhesives and other materials.
Wallcovering Installers Association (WIA) - Professional community offering education and certification for wallcovering installers.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.