People have decorated the walls of their living spaces since ancient times. Modern advancements in the materials and techniques used to cover surfaces created positions for painters and paperhangers. Paperhangers, on the other hand, cover interior rooms with decorative wallpaper, fabric, vinyl and other materials. Each trade has its own set of skills…both must properly prepare the surfaces to be covered so that the paint or paper adheres to the surface. Preparation may include scraping the surface, filling holes, cracks and joints and sanding or smoothing surfaces prior to application. Painters and paperhangers need to be in good physical condition, as they must climb ladders and reach overhead for many hours a day. An apprenticeship or on-the-job training is usually the only prerequisite to getting started in the field. Experienced painters and paperhangers often start their own businesses as painter or decorating contractors.