When selecting retro wallpaper rolls, think beyond the aesthetic. The material dictates durability, ease of cleaning, and how it adheres to your walls. Common options include.
Understanding wallpaper materials
Vinyl wallpaper
This is a popular choice for retro designs due to its durability and moisture resistance. Vinyl wallpaper typically has a paper or fabric backing with a vinyl coating on top. This makes it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or high-traffic areas where it might get splashed or require frequent cleaning. Look for solid vinyl or expanded vinyl, with solid vinyl being the most robust. It can be scrubbed clean without damaging the pattern.
Non-woven wallpaper
Often called ‘paste-the-wall’ wallpaper, non-woven materials are made from a blend of paper and synthetic fibers. They are breathable, allowing moisture to escape from behind the paper, which can prevent mold and mildew. Non-woven wallpapers are generally easier to hang and remove than traditional paper. Many retro designs are available in this material. They are also more forgiving if you make a mistake during installation, as they can be repositioned.
Paper wallpaper
The most traditional type, paper wallpaper is made entirely of paper. It’s often less expensive but also less durable and more prone to tearing or damage from moisture. For retro looks, especially in less demanding areas like a guest bedroom or dining room, paper can offer authentic vintage appeal. However, it requires more careful handling during installation and is not suitable for areas with high humidity or frequent cleaning needs.
Textured wallpaper
Some retro wallpaper rolls feature textures, such as embossed patterns or even fabric-like finishes. These can add depth and interest to a room but may be more challenging to clean. Ensure the texture complements the room’s function.
Key considerations for retro wallpaper rolls
Pattern repeat and scale
The pattern repeat is the distance from one point on the wallpaper to where the pattern starts again. A large pattern repeat means you’ll need more wallpaper because you’ll have more waste when matching the pattern between strips. For smaller rooms or walls with many windows and doors, a smaller or random pattern repeat is more efficient. The scale of the pattern should also suit the room size. Large, bold retro patterns can overwhelm a small space, while tiny patterns might get lost in a large room.
Color palette
Retro wallpaper often features distinct color palettes – think avocado green, harvest gold, burnt orange, or muted blues and yellows. Consider how these colors will interact with your existing furniture and decor. You can use wallpaper to introduce accent colors or create a dominant theme.
Quality and durability
Don’t sacrifice quality for a lower price. Cheaper wallpapers might fade faster, tear easily during installation, or be difficult to remove later. For high-traffic areas or rooms prone to moisture, opt for vinyl or high-quality non-woven materials. Check the wallpaper’s scrubbability rating if you need to clean it often.
Installation tips for retro wallpaper rolls
Surface preparation is crucial
Before you hang any wallpaper, the walls must be clean, dry, and smooth. Fill any holes, sand down rough spots, and remove old wallpaper or paint. Priming the walls with a specialized wallpaper primer is highly recommended. Primer creates a uniform surface, aids in adhesion, and makes future removal easier. For dark or bold retro patterns, consider using a tinted primer that matches the wallpaper’s base color to prevent the underlying wall color from showing through.
Tools you’ll need
Gather your tools before you start: a sharp utility knife or razor blade for trimming, a smoothing brush or squeegee to press out air bubbles, a seam roller to flatten seams, a plumb bob or laser level to ensure the first strip is perfectly vertical, a paste brush or roller, a bucket for paste, and a stepladder. For non-woven ‘paste-the-wall’ types, you’ll apply paste directly to the wall, not the paper.
Hanging the first strip
This is the most critical step. Use a plumb bob or laser level to draw a perfectly vertical line a few inches from the corner. Hang your first strip along this line, allowing a slight overlap onto the adjacent wall. This ensures the entire wall will be covered evenly, even if the corners aren’t perfectly plumb. Trim the excess at the ceiling and baseboard carefully.
Matching and smoothing
When hanging subsequent strips, carefully match the pattern repeat. Overlap the edges slightly and use a seam roller to press them down firmly. Work from the center of the strip outwards to push out any air bubbles. If bubbles appear, gently lift the wallpaper strip and re-smooth it. Don’t press too hard on seams until you’re sure the pattern is aligned.
Dealing with corners and obstacles
For inside corners, extend the wallpaper strip slightly around the corner onto the next wall, then trim. For outside corners, wrap the paper around and then fold the next strip over it, ensuring a clean edge. Around windows and doors, cut a star pattern into the material, allowing it to fold around the frame, then trim away the excess. Patience is key here to avoid unsightly tears or wrinkles.
Common mistakes to avoid
Skipping surface preparation
Hanging wallpaper over uneven, dirty, or unprimed walls is a recipe for disaster. Bubbles, peeling, and a poor finish are almost guaranteed. Take the time to prepare your walls properly; it’s the foundation of a professional-looking job.
Using the wrong adhesive
Different wallpaper types require different adhesives. Always use the type of paste recommended by the wallpaper manufacturer. Using standard wallpaper paste on a vinyl-coated paper might not provide sufficient adhesion, while using too strong a paste on a delicate paper could cause damage.
Not allowing for pattern repeat
This leads to excessive waste and frustration. Measure your wall height and check the pattern repeat before purchasing your wallpaper. It’s always better to buy an extra roll or two to account for matching the pattern, especially with large or complex retro designs.
Rushing the installation
Wallpapering is not a race. Take your time, measure carefully, and smooth each section thoroughly. Rushing will lead to mistakes like crooked strips, mismatched patterns, and air bubbles that are difficult to fix later.
Ignoring manufacturer instructions
Each roll of wallpaper comes with specific hanging instructions. These instructions are tailored to the material and design. Deviating from them can lead to installation problems and a less-than-ideal result. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Where to use retro wallpaper rolls
Retro wallpaper can bring a unique charm to various spaces. Consider using it in:
- Living rooms: Create a focal wall with a bold geometric or floral retro pattern.
- Dining rooms: A vintage damask or stripe can add sophistication.
- Bedrooms: Soft, muted retro designs can create a cozy atmosphere. Explore retro vintage wallpaper for timeless style.
- Kitchens and bathrooms: Opt for scrubbable vinyl retro patterns to add personality to these functional areas.
- Hallways and entryways: A striking pattern can make a memorable first impression. Learn about choosing antique wallpaper rolls for your home.
- Accent walls: Even a small amount of retro wallpaper can make a big statement on a single wall.
When choosing patterns, think about the era you’re aiming for – mid-century modern, art deco, or even earlier styles. For specific design inspirations, consider brands known for their unique aesthetics, like Rifle Paper Co. wallpaper or exploring beautiful flowers on wallpaper designs. If you’re drawn to nature-inspired themes, stunning Yellowstone wallpaper designs might also capture a vintage feel.