How many wall decals do I need, and how far apart should I space them?

For separate dots, stars or small motifs, work out the number of positions in your layout, then divide by the number of pieces in a pack. There is no single spacing that suits every design. Small dots can sit closer together; larger birds or botanical pieces usually need more breathing room.

Start with the area you want to decorate

Measure the visible area, rather than automatically covering the whole wall. Allow for wardrobes, doors, windows and furniture. Decide whether you want an even pattern, a loose scatter or a smaller feature above a bed or desk. A repeat pattern needs more planning than a cluster that gradually thins out.

For an even layout, mark the centres of the proposed decals on a sketch. Centre-to-centre spacing is different from the empty gap between their edges. With a 3.5 cm dot and centres 30 cm apart, the clear gap is 26.5 cm.

A practical polka-dot example

Our Polka Dots Wall Decals come with 80 dots, each 3.5 cm across. Imagine a clear area 3 m wide and 2.4 m high. Placing centres 30 cm apart, with the first row and column 15 cm in from each edge, gives you 10 columns and 8 rows: 80 dots, or one pack.

That is an illustrative layout, not a promised coverage rate. A window removes some positions; a staggered pattern changes the count. Wider spacing creates a lighter look, while closer spacing gives more of a wallpaper effect. Draw and count the actual positions before ordering.

Check the layout before applying anything

1. Cut a few paper shapes at the actual decal size.
2. Try the arrangement on the floor first, or temporarily position paper templates using a method safe for your wall finish.
3. Stand back and photograph it from the doorway.
4. Check the area behind furniture and the spacing around switches.
5. Count the final positions and check the pack contents of your chosen product.

For mixed-size sets, count the large and small pieces separately. Do not assume every item shown in a styled room photograph is included in one pack. Keep the main shapes balanced, then use smaller pieces to connect the arrangement.

Does this work for every decal?

A single artwork or a connected design needs a different approach. Use its finished dimensions and our wall decal size guide, rather than multiplying individual motifs. Decorative spacing also does not apply to bird-strike protection: follow our separate bird-strike decal placement guide.

Before installation, check painted-wall compatibility and the instructions for your product. If you are unsure how many packs to choose, send us the design, a wall photo and the area measurements.