Brewster wallcoverings: a buyer’s guide

When you’re ready to update your walls, understanding the breadth of options from a brand like Brewster wallcoverings is key. You’re not just picking a color; you’re selecting a material, a texture, and a style that will live with you for years. This guide breaks down what you need to know to make an informed choice, from material types to installation tips.

Understanding Brewster’s Material Offerings

Brewster offers a wide array of wallcovering materials, each with distinct characteristics and best-use scenarios. Your decision hinges on durability, ease of cleaning, and the desired aesthetic. The primary categories include:

Vinyl Wallcoverings

Vinyl is a workhorse in the wallcovering world, prized for its toughness and versatility. It’s an excellent choice for high-traffic areas and rooms where moisture is a concern, like kitchens and bathrooms. Brewster’s vinyl offerings typically fall into a few sub-types:

• Solid Vinyl: This is the most durable type. It consists of a vinyl layer fused to a fabric or paper backing. It’s highly scrubbable, water-resistant, and can often withstand heavy cleaning. Look for this if you need maximum resilience.
• Vinyl Coated: A paper or fabric substrate is coated with a thin layer of vinyl. This offers some washability and durability but is generally less robust than solid vinyl. It’s a good mid-range option for living rooms or bedrooms.
• Expanded Vinyl: This type has a textured, bubbly vinyl surface that can mimic materials like stucco or fabric. It’s often used to cover minor wall imperfections due to its thickness and texture, but it may not be as easy to clean as smoother vinyl types.

Key Considerations for Vinyl: Check the manufacturer’s specific rating for scrubbability and water resistance. While generally durable, some lighter-weight vinyls might not stand up to aggressive scrubbing. Ensure proper ventilation during and after installation, especially in humid environments.

Non-Woven Wallcoverings

Non-woven, often referred to as ‘paste-the-wall’ or ‘easy-up,’ is a popular modern choice. Made from a blend of synthetic fibers and paper pulp, it’s breathable, durable, and easier to remove than traditional paper. Brewster offers many designs in this format.

• Benefits: Non-woven wallpapers are dimensionally stable, meaning they don’t stretch or shrink significantly when wet, which makes installation on the wall much simpler. They are also easier to strip off in large, dry sheets when it’s time for a change, reducing the mess and effort associated with removal.
• Durability: While not as inherently water-resistant as vinyl, good quality non-woven wallpapers can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. They are a great option for most rooms, including bedrooms, living areas, and even low-moisture bathrooms or kitchens.

Installation Note: The ‘paste-the-wall’ method significantly speeds up the process compared to traditional ‘paste-the-paper’ methods. You apply the adhesive directly to the wall, then hang the dry paper strip.

Textured Wallcoverings

Beyond standard vinyl and non-woven, Brewster features various textured options that add depth and character:

• Embossed papers: These papers have a raised design, often created by pressing a pattern into the material. They can add a subtle or dramatic tactile element.
• Grasscloth and Natural Fibers: While less common in mass-market collections, some higher-end Brewster lines might include these. They offer a unique organic texture but are typically more delicate and harder to clean, best suited for low-traffic areas like dining rooms or studies.
• Flocked wallpapers: These feature velvety, raised patterns on a smooth background. They offer a luxurious feel but can be sensitive to moisture and heavy cleaning.

When to Choose Texture: Textured wallcoverings are excellent for hiding minor imperfections in drywall. They also add a sophisticated layer of interest that flat paint cannot replicate.

Navigating Brewster’s Collections and Styles

Brewster’s strength lies in its diverse collections, catering to a wide range of tastes. When browsing, consider these style categories:

• Traditional & Classic: Expect damasks, florals, paisleys, and intricate patterns. These often come in rich colors and metallic accents.
• Modern & Contemporary: Look for geometric patterns, abstract designs, subtle textures, and often a more muted or sophisticated color palette.
• Farmhouse & Rustic: This category includes designs like shiplap effects, distressed finishes, simple stripes, and botanical prints with a natural feel.
• Kids’ & Themed: Brewster offers a substantial selection for children’s rooms, featuring popular characters, playful patterns, and educational designs.
• Specialty Finishes: Including metallic, glitter, chalkboard, or whiteboard finishes.

Tip for Choosing: Always order a sample if possible. Seeing the wallpaper in your room’s lighting, next to your furniture, is invaluable. Pay attention to the pattern repeat—a larger repeat means you’ll need more wallpaper and may have more waste, especially on complex patterns.

Brewster Wallcoverings: Installation Essentials

Proper installation is crucial for a professional-looking finish and the longevity of your wallcovering. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or hiring a professional, understanding the steps is vital.

Preparation is Paramount

This is the most critical phase and often where mistakes happen. Skipping or rushing prep work leads to peeling edges, bubbles, and an unprofessional appearance.

1. Clean the Walls: Ensure walls are free of dust, grease, and old adhesive residue. Wash with a mild detergent and water, then rinse thoroughly. Let them dry completely.
2. Repair Imperfections: Fill any holes or cracks with spackling compound. Sand smooth once dry. Any bumps or divots will be magnified by the wallpaper.
3. Prime the Walls: Use a wallpaper primer or a high-quality latex primer. This seals the surface, prevents the drywall from absorbing too much paste (which can cause it to swell), and makes future removal easier. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For heavily textured or previously papered walls, a strippable primer might be beneficial.
4. Check for Square: Use a level to ensure your first strip is perfectly vertical. This is the foundation for all subsequent strips.

The Hanging Process

The method depends on the type of wallcovering:

• Paste-the-Wall (Non-Woven): Unroll the wallpaper and cut strips to the required length, adding a few inches for trimming top and bottom. Apply an even coat of wallpaper adhesive directly to the wall, covering an area slightly wider than one strip. Book the paper (fold ends towards the middle, paste-to-paste) for a few minutes if recommended by the manufacturer. Hang the strip, aligning the edge with your plumb line. Smooth out from the center to the edges with a wallpaper brush or smoother, working out any air bubbles.
• Paste-the-Paper (Traditional Paper/Vinyl): Cut strips and lay them paste-side up on a pasting table. Apply adhesive evenly, ensuring full coverage. Book the paper (fold ends to the middle, paste-to-paste) and let it relax for the time specified by the manufacturer (this allows the paper to expand and prevents shrinkage on the wall). Hang the strip on the wall, aligning the edge. Smooth out bubbles.
• Peel-and-Stick (less common for Brewster, but available in some lines): These are typically self-adhesive. Ensure the wall is clean and dry. Peel back a portion of the backing and carefully align the top edge. Smooth down as you peel off the backing, using a squeegee to remove air bubbles.

Trimming and Finishing

Once a strip is hung and smoothed:

• Use a sharp utility knife or a specialized wallpaper trimmer with a fresh blade.
• Trim the excess paper at the ceiling and baseboard. A metal straight edge or a plastic wallpaper guide can help achieve a clean, straight cut.
• For corners, allow the paper to wrap slightly around the corner by about 1/2 inch, then make a relief cut. Hang the next strip, overlapping the corner by about 1/2 inch, and cut through both layers where they meet for a seamless finish.
• Clean off any excess paste immediately with a damp sponge or cloth.

Maintaining Your Brewster Wallcoverings

The durability and maintenance requirements of your Brewster wallcovering depend heavily on its material. Always consult the manufacturer’s specific care instructions, usually found on the wallpaper roll’s label or packaging.

• Scrubbable Vinyl: These are the easiest to clean. Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild soap and water. Gently wipe away stains or marks. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh scrubbing, which can damage the surface or print. Rinse with a clean damp cloth.
• Washable Vinyl and Non-Woven: These can typically be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tougher spots, a slightly more vigorous (but still gentle) wipe may be needed. Blot spills immediately.
• Textured or Delicate Papers (e.g., flock, grasscloth): These require the most care. Often, only dusting with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner’s brush attachment is recommended. Spot cleaning should be done with extreme caution, using minimal moisture and a very soft cloth. Avoid water contact where possible.

Important Note on Cleaning: Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first, such as behind a piece of furniture or near the baseboard, to ensure it doesn’t damage the color or texture.

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Even with careful planning, minor issues can arise. Here’s how to tackle them:

• Bubbles: Small air bubbles can often be smoothed out during installation. Larger ones that appear after drying might require pricking with a fine needle and gently pressing the air out, then smoothing. If the bubble persists or is large, it might indicate an adhesion issue, and the strip may need to be lifted and re-adhered.
• Seams Not Lying Flat: This can be due to insufficient paste, uneven paste application, or if the paper dried out too much before hanging (especially in paste-the-paper). Ensure adequate paste coverage and proper booking time. If the seam is slightly open, a tiny amount of wallpaper adhesive applied with a fine brush or syringe into the gap might help.
• Pattern Not Matching: Ensure you are aligning the pattern correctly before smoothing the strip. If a slight misalignment occurs, you may be able to gently shift the strip before the paste sets. For significant mismatches, you might need to trim and re-hang the affected strip.
• Tears or Rips: Handle the wallpaper carefully, especially when wet. If a small tear occurs, it might be repairable with a tiny amount of adhesive and careful smoothing. Larger tears usually mean the strip needs to be replaced.

Choosing the Right Brewster Wallcovering for Every Room

Selecting the appropriate wallcovering for each space in your home is essential for both aesthetics and functionality.

Entryways and Hallways

These high-traffic areas benefit from durable materials. A scrubbable vinyl or a robust non-woven wallpaper is ideal. Patterns can be bold and welcoming, setting the tone for the rest of your home. Consider a darker color or a pattern that hides minor scuffs and marks.

Living Rooms

This is a space for personality. You have more flexibility here. Traditional papers, contemporary designs, or subtle textures all work well. Think about the mood you want to create – calming, energetic, sophisticated. Non-woven is a good general choice for ease of installation and removal.

Dining Rooms

Often a more formal space, the dining room can accommodate richer, more decorative patterns. Damasks, elegant florals, or textured wallpapers can add a touch of luxury. Since traffic is usually lower, even slightly more delicate materials can be suitable.

Kitchens and Bathrooms

Moisture and potential splashes make durability and cleanability paramount. High-quality vinyl wallcoverings (solid vinyl or vinyl-coated) are the best choice. Ensure the product is specifically rated for use in kitchens and bathrooms. Non-woven can be used in powder rooms or well-ventilated bathrooms, but avoid it in very humid or splash-prone areas.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms are personal sanctuaries. You can opt for calming, serene designs or more vibrant patterns depending on your preference. Non-woven wallpapers are excellent for bedrooms due to their breathability and ease of application. Consider softer textures or muted colors for a relaxing atmosphere.

Children’s Rooms

Durability and ease of cleaning are key here. Brewster offers many playful and themed designs specifically for kids. Vinyl or washable non-woven papers are recommended to handle crayon marks and sticky fingers. Opt for designs that can grow with the child or are easily replaceable.

The Impact of Pattern Repeat on Your Project

Pattern repeat is a critical factor often overlooked by first-time wallpaper buyers. It refers to the vertical distance on the wallpaper after which the pattern starts to repeat. This measurement significantly impacts how much wallpaper you need and how much waste you’ll generate.

• Small Repeat (e.g., 0-6 inches): These patterns are generally more forgiving. You’ll need less wallpaper, and matching is usually straightforward.
• Large Repeat (e.g., 20 inches or more): These patterns require more careful planning and can lead to substantial waste, especially on smaller rooms or rooms with many windows and doors. You might need to purchase an extra roll to ensure you can align the large pattern across different strips without awkward cut-offs.

Calculating Your Needs: Always check the pattern repeat on the wallpaper roll. If you’re unsure, consult the manufacturer’s website or a professional. Buying slightly more than calculated is always safer than running out mid-project.

Where to Buy Brewster Wallcoverings

Brewster wallcoverings are widely available through various retail channels. Your choice might depend on convenience, price, and selection.

• Online Retailers: Many dedicated online wallcovering stores and large home improvement retailers carry Brewster products. This often provides the widest selection and competitive pricing. Websites like BrewsterHomeFashions.com, Amazon, Wayfair, and others are good starting points.
• Specialty Paint and Wallpaper Stores: Local stores can offer personalized service and expert advice. They may have a curated selection of Brewster’s higher-end or specialty collections.
• Big Box Home Improvement Stores: Stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s may carry a limited selection of popular Brewster patterns.

Pro Tip: Compare prices across different retailers. Sometimes, a slightly higher price at a specialty store is worth the expert advice you receive. Remember to factor in shipping costs for online purchases.

Brewster vs. Other Brands

While Brewster offers a vast range, understanding how it compares to other major brands can refine your choice. For example, York Wallcoverings, another prominent American manufacturer, also provides extensive collections. York is known for its high-quality printing processes and a blend of traditional and contemporary designs, often with a premium feel. Both brands offer a wide spectrum of materials, from durable vinyl to eco-friendlier non-wovens. When comparing, look at the specifics: pattern detail, material thickness, ease of installation, and price point. For instance, if you’re seeking authentic grasscloth or unique textured papers, you might find specialized offerings at one brand over the other. Ultimately, the best brand depends on your specific project needs and aesthetic preferences. Transforming a space with wallcoverings is a personal journey, and both Brewster and York provide excellent starting points.

Your Cart is Empty

This is a common message encountered when browsing online stores. It signifies that no items have been added to your shopping cart yet. Before you see this message, you’ve likely been browsing products. To proceed with a purchase, you’ll need to select items and add them to your cart.

Your Cart

Your shopping cart is where all the items you intend to purchase are temporarily stored. It allows you to review your selections, adjust quantities, and see the subtotal before committing to a checkout. It’s your virtual shopping basket. From here, you can typically remove items, save them for later, or proceed to payment.

Subtotal

The subtotal represents the total cost of the items in your shopping cart before taxes, shipping fees, or any applied discounts. It’s a preliminary cost to help you gauge the overall expense of your selected products. Once you proceed to checkout, you’ll see the final total including all additional charges.

1793 Products

This number typically indicates the total count of available products within a specific category or across an entire website. In the context of Brewster wallcoverings, seeing “1793 products” suggests a vast and diverse inventory, offering a wide range of styles, colors, and materials to choose from. This large selection means you are likely to find a design that perfectly matches your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Brewster Wallcoverings

What is the difference between vinyl and non-woven wallpaper?

Vinyl wallpaper has a vinyl layer, making it highly durable, scrubbable, and water-resistant, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Non-woven wallpaper is made from synthetic fibers and paper pulp, is breathable, easier to install (paste-the-wall), and easier to remove than traditional paper, making it suitable for most rooms.

Can I install Brewster wallpaper myself?

Yes, many Brewster wallpapers, especially non-woven types, are designed for DIY installation. Proper preparation, tools, and following the instructions are key to a successful outcome. For complex patterns or large areas, hiring a professional is always an option.

How do I measure my walls for wallpaper?

Measure the width and height of each wall in feet. Multiply width by height to get the square footage of each wall. Add the square footage of all walls. Consult the wallpaper’s coverage information (usually per double roll) and add about 10-15% extra for pattern matching and waste.

How long does Brewster wallpaper last?

The lifespan of Brewster wallpaper varies depending on the material, installation quality, and room conditions. High-quality vinyl can last 10-15 years or more in optimal conditions, while paper-based options might last 5-10 years. Proper maintenance extends its life.

Is wallpaper more expensive than paint?

Initially, wallpaper can have a higher upfront cost than paint. However, good quality wallpaper is very durable and can last much longer than paint, which may need refreshing every few years. When considering longevity and aesthetic impact, wallpaper can be a cost-effective choice.