How the calculation works
- Wall area = (room length + room width) × 2 × wall height.
- Each door and window is deducted as 20 sq ft.
- Single rolls = wall area ÷ usable area per single roll, rounded up. Following Sherwin-Williams' estimating guide, a single roll gives 25 sq ft for repeats up to 6 in, 22 sq ft up to 12 in, 20 sq ft up to 18 in and 18 sq ft up to 23 in — figures that already allow for matching the pattern.
- Double rolls = single rolls ÷ 2, rounded up, since most wallpaper is sold in double rolls.
Example
Room length: 12 ft · Room width: 15 ft · Wall height: 8 ft · Doors: 1 · Windows: 2 · Pattern repeat: 15 in
Result: 10 double rolls.
Tips before you buy
- Sherwin-Williams suggests buying one extra roll for repairs.
- Make sure every roll has the same run or lot number.
- For repeats over 23 inches, use the yield printed on the wallpaper label.
- Always confirm coverage and yield with the manufacturer's label — products differ.
FAQ
Where do I find the pattern repeat?
It is printed on the label or product page, usually in inches. Use 0 for a plain or random-match paper.