Shiplap wallpaper guide: farmhouse style made easy

When you want that classic farmhouse vibe, shiplap is often the first thing that comes to mind. But installing real wood planks can be time-consuming, expensive, and requires specific tools. Fortunately, shiplap wallpaper offers a fantastic shortcut to achieve the same aesthetic with much less effort.

Understanding shiplap wallpaper

Shiplap wallpaper mimics the look of traditional shiplap siding, which features overlapping, horizontal boards with a slight groove between them. This design creates a distinctive shadow line and a cozy, rustic feel. Instead of individual wood planks, shiplap wallpaper is a roll of paper, vinyl, or other material printed with a shiplap pattern. It’s designed to be applied directly to your walls, much like any other wallpaper.

The primary benefit is speed and cost. A full shiplap wood installation can cost thousands of dollars in materials and labor. Wallpaper, on the other hand, is significantly cheaper per square foot and can often be a DIY project, saving you even more money. The visual effect is remarkably similar, especially from a distance or in photos.

Types of shiplap wallpaper

Just like traditional wallpaper, shiplap wallpaper comes in various materials, each with its own pros and cons:

1. Vinyl-Coated Shiplap Wallpaper

This is one of the most durable and popular options. The vinyl coating makes it:

Washable: Great for high-traffic areas, kitchens, or even kids’ rooms where smudges are likely. You can wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
Scrubbable: More resistant to damage from cleaning.
Moisture-resistant: Suitable for bathrooms or kitchens where humidity might be a concern, though not entirely waterproof.
Peelable: Often easier to remove than paper-only options when it’s time for a change.

Vinyl-coated options are excellent for creating a lasting impression without worrying too much about wear and tear.

2. Non-Woven Shiplap Wallpaper

Made from a blend of synthetic fibers and paper, non-woven wallpaper is known for its breathability and ease of use:

Easy to Hang: Typically, you apply the paste directly to the wall, not the paper, which makes the process less messy and allows for repositioning.
Strippable: Usually peels off in large pieces when dry, leaving minimal residue.
Breathable: Less prone to mold and mildew issues compared to some other materials, which can be beneficial in certain climates.

If you’re new to wallpapering or want a smoother installation experience, non-woven is a strong contender.

3. Peel and Stick Shiplap Wallpaper

This is a DIYer’s dream. Peel and stick wallpaper has an adhesive backing, meaning no paste is required:

Extremely Easy to Install: You simply peel off the backing and stick it to the wall.
Removable: Designed to be removed without damaging the underlying wall, making it perfect for renters or those who like to redecorate frequently.
Repositionable: You can often lift and reposition mistakes during application.

While convenient, peel and stick can sometimes be less durable than traditional vinyl wallpapers and may be more prone to peeling at the edges over time if not applied correctly, especially in humid environments. For more details on this popular type, check out our guide to peel and stick wallpaper.

4. Traditional Paper Shiplap Wallpaper

This is the most basic type, made entirely of paper. It’s usually the most budget-friendly but also the least durable.

Least Durable: Prone to tearing, water damage, and fading.
Requires Paste: You’ll need to apply wallpaper paste to the back of the paper.
Difficult to Clean: Not washable or scrubbable.

This option is best suited for low-traffic areas where moisture and frequent cleaning are not issues.

Choosing the right color and finish

The color and finish of your shiplap wallpaper will significantly impact the overall look and feel of your room.

Color options:

Classic White: The most popular choice, evoking a bright, airy, and quintessential farmhouse aesthetic. It works well in any room and pairs with most decor styles.
Off-White/Cream: Offers a softer, warmer version of white, perfect for creating a cozier atmosphere.
Grey: A modern take on farmhouse. Grey shiplap can add sophistication and depth. It pairs well with rustic elements or a more contemporary farmhouse style. Our guide on grey shiplap wallpaper installation can offer specific tips.
Beige/Tan: Provides a natural, earthy feel, ideal for a more subdued or rustic look.
Distressed/Aged Finishes: Some wallpapers feature a pre-distressed or aged look with subtle variations in color and texture, adding to the rustic charm.

Finish options:

Matte: Absorbs light, providing a soft, velvety look that mimics natural wood. It’s excellent for hiding minor wall imperfections.
Satin/Eggshell: Offers a slight sheen, which can make the color appear richer and is slightly more durable and easier to clean than matte.
Glossy: Less common for shiplap, but some might opt for it to create a more modern, high-impact look. It reflects light and can highlight wall imperfections.

Where to use shiplap wallpaper

Shiplap wallpaper is versatile and can enhance various spaces. Consider these popular applications:

Accent Walls

This is the most common use. Apply shiplap wallpaper to a single wall to create a focal point. It’s particularly effective behind a bed in a bedroom, behind a sofa in a living room, or on the wall behind a dining table.

Full Room Coverage

For a truly immersive farmhouse experience, cover all the walls in a room. This works best in smaller spaces like powder rooms, entryways, or studies where the effect can be contained and impactful.

Ceilings

Adding shiplap wallpaper to a ceiling can dramatically change the perception of a room, making it feel more enclosed and cozy, or adding an unexpected architectural element.

Kitchen Backsplashes

While not ideal for areas directly exposed to grease and heavy moisture (like behind a stovetop), vinyl or laminate-backed shiplap wallpaper can work well as a decorative backsplash in areas away from direct cooking splatter. Ensure it’s a washable type.

Entryways and Hallways

These transitional spaces can benefit from the character shiplap wallpaper adds, making a welcoming statement as guests enter your home.

Bedrooms

It’s perfect for creating a calming, rustic retreat. A white or soft grey shiplap wall behind the headboard adds texture and visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Installation: Step-by-step guide

While specific instructions vary by product, here’s a general guide to installing shiplap wallpaper:

1. Preparation is Key

Clean the Walls: Ensure your walls are clean, dry, and free of dust, grease, or old wallpaper. Repair any holes or cracks. A smooth surface is crucial.
Measure and Plan: Calculate the square footage of the area you want to cover and purchase enough rolls, accounting for pattern matching and potential errors. It’s always best to buy a little extra.
Gather Supplies: You’ll need wallpaper, a sharp utility knife or razor blade, a smoothing tool (like a plastic smoother or a squeegee), a measuring tape, a level, a stepladder, and potentially wallpaper paste (if not using peel and stick).
Cut Your First Panel: Unroll your wallpaper and carefully measure and cut the first panel. For shiplap, you’ll typically want to hang it vertically, ensuring the pattern starts correctly at the ceiling.

2. Hanging the Wallpaper

Apply Adhesive (if needed): If using traditional or non-woven wallpaper, apply the recommended paste to the wall or the back of the paper according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For peel and stick, skip this step.
Position the First Panel: Carefully align the top edge of the first panel with the ceiling and use a level to ensure it’s perfectly vertical. This is critical for the entire installation.
Smooth Out Bubbles: Use your smoothing tool to push out any air bubbles and wrinkles, working from the center outwards.
Trim Excess: Once the panel is smoothly adhered, use your utility knife to trim any excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboard.

3. Continuing the Installation

Hang Subsequent Panels: Apply the next panel, ensuring the shiplap lines match up seamlessly with the previous panel. This pattern matching is vital for the shiplap effect.
Overlap or Butt Joint: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some wallpapers require a slight overlap, while others are designed for a butt joint (edges touching).
Work Around Obstacles: Carefully cut around outlets, switches, or windows. It’s often easier to cut an ‘X’ in the paper over an outlet and then trim away the excess.

4. Final Touches

Clean Up: Wipe away any excess paste with a damp sponge.
Allow to Dry: Let the wallpaper dry completely according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Common mistakes to avoid

Installing shiplap wallpaper is generally straightforward, but a few common pitfalls can lead to a less-than-perfect result:

Not preparing the walls properly: Applying wallpaper over dirty, bumpy, or damaged walls will result in a poor finish.
Not using a level for the first strip: If your first panel isn’t perfectly vertical, every subsequent panel will be crooked, making the shiplap lines look wonky.
Skipping pattern matching: For shiplap, the horizontal lines must align perfectly between panels to create the illusion of continuous planks. Mismatched lines are very noticeable.
Using a dull blade: A dull utility knife will tear the wallpaper, leaving ragged edges that are difficult to conceal.
Applying too much or too little paste (for traditional types): Too little paste means the wallpaper won’t adhere, leading to peeling. Too much can cause it to bubble or seep through seams.
Rushing the process: Take your time, especially when aligning seams and smoothing out bubbles.

Shiplap wallpaper vs. other shiplap alternatives

While shiplap wallpaper is an excellent option, it’s helpful to compare it against other ways to achieve the shiplap look:

1. Real Wood Planks

Pros: Authentic texture, depth, and durability. Can be painted or stained.

Cons: Expensive materials and labor, time-consuming installation, requires tools (miter saw, nail gun), can be heavy.

Best for: Those prioritizing authenticity and willing to invest significant time and money.

2. MDF or Plywood Panels

Pros: More affordable than real wood, consistent look.

Cons: Still requires cutting, fastening, and finishing. Can be heavy and require tools. Susceptible to moisture damage if not sealed properly.

Best for: A more budget-conscious option than real wood, but still a significant DIY project.

3. Peel and Stick Wood-Look Planks

Pros: Very easy to install, often self-adhesive, lightweight.

Cons: Can look less realistic than wallpaper or real wood, edges can lift over time, may be more expensive per square foot than wallpaper.

Best for: Quick temporary transformations or renters who want a textured look.

4. Shiplap Wallpaper

Pros: Most affordable option, easiest to install (especially peel and stick), wide variety of colors and styles, lightweight, no special tools needed beyond basics.

Cons: Less tactile depth than wood, can be less durable than vinyl wallpaper or real wood, requires careful pattern matching.

Best for: Achieving the shiplap look quickly and affordably, DIYers, renters, accent walls.

Maintaining your shiplap wallpaper

Keeping your shiplap wallpaper looking its best is simple, especially with washable vinyl or non-woven types:

Regular dusting: Use a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust.
Spot cleaning: For minor marks or smudges, use a damp (not wet) cloth with a mild soap solution. Wipe gently and dry the area immediately.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Never use abrasive cleaners or strong solvents, as they can damage the print or the material.
Check edges: Periodically inspect the edges, especially in high-moisture areas or if using peel and stick, and re-adhere any lifting sections with appropriate wallpaper adhesive if needed.

Styling with shiplap wallpaper

Shiplap wallpaper is a fantastic base for creating various looks:

Modern Farmhouse: Pair white or light grey shiplap with black metal accents, natural wood tones, and simple, clean-lined furniture.
Rustic Charm: Combine with vintage furniture, burlap accents, and greenery. Distressed finishes enhance this look.
Coastal Vibe: Use light blues or whites with natural textures like rattan and linen.
Transitional Decor: Shiplap can bridge traditional and modern elements. Use it to add architectural interest to a room with more contemporary furniture.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns. While shiplap itself is a pattern, it can pair well with floral accents, as seen in some beautiful flowers on wallpaper designs, or bold graphics. Consider how Rifle Paper Co. wallpaper, with its distinctive artistic flair, could complement a shiplap accent wall for a unique blend of styles. Rifle Paper Co. wallpaper often brings a curated, high-end feel to a space.

For a dramatic, naturalistic look, explore options like Yellowstone wallpaper designs, which can add a rugged, adventurous element to rooms with a shiplap backdrop. The key is balance – let the shiplap provide texture and structure while other elements bring color, pattern, and personality.