Paperhangers
Paperhangers apply decorative wallpaper and fabric to interior walls and ceilings, or hang advertising posters on walls and billboards. They may also remove old materials and prepare surfaces before installation. This work takes place in homes, offices, commercial buildings, and outdoor advertising spaces.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against paperhangers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A paperhanger's week involves measuring and cutting wallpaper or fabric to fit specific wall dimensions, applying adhesive, and smoothing material onto surfaces to eliminate air bubbles and wrinkles. Tasks include inspecting walls for damage, filling holes, sanding uneven areas, and removing old wallpaper or paint. Jobs vary from single-room residential projects to large commercial installations, with time spent both on-site and preparing materials in a workshop or vehicle.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCA. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited to this work if you prefer hands-on tasks with concrete, visible results and enjoy following established procedures and standards. Success requires attention to detail, spatial reasoning, and the ability to work methodically through each step of the installation process without rushing.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $60,440 | $62,790 | $72,710 | 130 |
| Pennsylvania | $49,570 | $61,800 | $63,590 | 30 |
| New York | $57,230 | $60,230 | $66,230 | 300 |
| Missouri | $52,760 | $59,560 | $63,310 | — |
| Indiana | $43,340 | $54,810 | $56,590 | 70 |
| Wisconsin | $40,100 | $51,500 | $58,220 | — |
| Florida | $28,720 | $48,780 | $50,340 | 30 |
| North Carolina | $35,930 | $48,590 | $51,190 | 100 |
| Colorado | $44,800 | $48,180 | $58,550 | 130 |
| Ohio | $44,510 | $47,830 | $58,900 | 70 |
| South Carolina | $42,960 | $46,800 | $57,470 | 50 |
| Washington | $46,260 | $46,270 | $61,270 | — |
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against paperhangers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-2142.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.