DEAR TIM:

I was thinking of wallpapering several rooms in my house and installing a few borders in others. But after talking with some friends who have removed wallpaper from their houses I think I might not do it. As they removed the paper they ruined their walls. The paper facing on the drywall was ripped off! Is there a way to prevent this? What can my friends do to restore their drywall?

Darcey R., Brookville, IN

You finally did it.

You made the first step in getting a new look for your home by calling in help to remove your wallpaper. You still need to pick your colors, find new curtains, and maybe call a painter, hoping it all doesn’t clash with your furniture.

Relax, breathe and take each step one at a time. This is supposed to be fun and exciting.