Wallpapers design for wall guide

The first decision when selecting wallpaper is the material. Vinyl wallpapers offer durability and are washable, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. They often come with a paper or fabric backing. Peel-and-stick wallpapers are a popular choice for renters or for DIY enthusiasts as they don’t require paste and are easy to remove. These are typically made from vinyl or fabric with a strong adhesive backing. For a more luxurious feel, consider fabric-backed vinyl or even natural fiber wallpapers like grasscloth or cork, though these require more careful installation and are not always washable.

Understanding wallpaper construction and types

Wallpaper is constructed in layers. The base layer, often called the substrate, can be paper or a vinyl compound. The design is printed on top of this. The type of substrate and the finish determine the wallpaper’s characteristics. Let’s break down the most common types you’ll encounter:

Paper wallpapers

These are the most traditional and generally the least expensive. They are made entirely of paper, sometimes with a vinyl coating for a degree of washability. They are best suited for low-moisture areas like bedrooms and formal living rooms. Installation can be tricky as they can tear easily when wet with paste, and bubbles are common if not applied carefully. They are also susceptible to fading in direct sunlight.

Vinyl wallpapers

Vinyl wallpapers are a workhorse for many homes. They consist of a paper or fabric backing with a solid vinyl layer on top. This vinyl layer makes them highly durable, washable, and scrubbable, which is why they are excellent for kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and kids’ rooms. There are several types of vinyl wallpaper:

Strippable vinyl: This is the most common type. It can be removed in strips from the wall without leaving much residue.
Peelable vinyl: Similar to strippable, but may leave the paper backing on the wall, requiring a wetting agent to remove.
Solid vinyl: This type has a thick vinyl coating and is the most durable and washable. It’s often used in commercial settings but is also great for residential use in high-moisture or high-traffic areas.

Non-woven wallpapers

Non-woven wallpapers are made from a blend of synthetic fibers and paper pulp. They are breathable, resistant to shrinking and expanding with humidity changes, and are generally easy to hang and remove. They offer a matte finish and can be scrubbed. Many modern designer wallpapers use non-woven material.

Textured and specialty wallpapers

Beyond the basic material types, you’ll find wallpapers with added textures or unique finishes:

Grasscloth: Made from natural plant fibers woven together. It has a unique, organic texture but is delicate, difficult to clean, and cannot be used in high-moisture areas.
Cork: Made from the bark of cork trees, offering natural insulation and a unique textured look. It’s often applied as wallpaper.
Fabric wallpapers: These can include silks, linens, or suedes adhered to a paper or vinyl backing. They add a rich, tactile dimension but are expensive and difficult to clean.
Embossed wallpapers: These have a raised design, often created by pressing a heated roller onto the paper. They can mimic textures like damask or even wood.
Metallic wallpapers: These incorporate metallic foils or inks for a shimmering effect, reflecting light and adding a glamorous touch.

Choosing the right wallpaper design for your walls

Once you’ve settled on a material, the design possibilities are endless. Your choice will depend on the room’s purpose, your personal style, and the existing decor. Consider the scale of the pattern relative to the room size and furniture. A large, bold pattern can make a small room feel overwhelming, while a tiny, intricate pattern might get lost in a large space.

Shop by color

Color plays a crucial role in setting the mood of a room. Lighter colors can make a space feel larger and airier, while darker colors can create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Consider how the wallpaper color will interact with your existing furniture, flooring, and natural light. Blues and greens often evoke a sense of calm, yellows and oranges bring warmth, and grays and neutrals offer versatility. You can explore exquisite designer wallpaper options that come in a wide spectrum of colors to match any aesthetic.

Shop by design

Designs range from classic to contemporary, abstract to pictorial. Here are some popular categories:

Floral: From delicate botanicals to large, dramatic blooms, floral patterns add a touch of nature and romance.
Geometric: Crisp lines, shapes, and repeating patterns create a modern and sophisticated look. Think chevrons, hexagons, and abstract geometrics.
Stripes: Timeless and versatile, stripes can make walls appear taller or wider depending on their orientation. Vertical stripes draw the eye upward, while horizontal stripes can make a room feel wider. Timeless striped wallpaper designs are a safe bet for many spaces.
Damask: An ornate, symmetrical pattern often featuring scrolling vines and floral motifs. It lends a classic and elegant feel.
Toile: Features intricate pastoral or historical scenes, often in a single color on a contrasting background. It adds a traditional, storybook charm.
Abstract: Free-flowing, non-representational designs that can add a contemporary artistic touch.
Animal prints: Bold and fashionable, these can range from subtle leopard spots to dramatic zebra stripes.
Kids’ patterns: Fun and playful designs featuring characters, animals, or whimsical motifs.

Living room considerations

The living room is often the focal point of the home, where guests are entertained and family gathers. When choosing wallpaper for this space, consider the overall style you want to achieve. A bold pattern can create a dramatic accent wall, while a more subtle texture can add depth and sophistication. For a serene and natural feel, consider patterns inspired by nature, like a coastal design or botanical prints. If you’re aiming for a more dramatic look, think about deep jewel tones or intricate damask patterns.

‘Garden in the sky’ with Kate Berry

Kate Berry’s ‘Garden in the Sky’ collection offers a breathtaking blend of nature-inspired artistry and whimsical charm. These wallpapers often feature lush, oversized florals and botanical elements that evoke a sense of an enchanted garden. They are perfect for creating a statement in a bedroom, a reading nook, or even a powder room where you want to add a touch of extraordinary beauty and escapism.

Celebrating 80 years

Brands that have been in the wallpaper industry for decades, like Graham & Brown celebrating 80 years, often offer a rich heritage of design. This longevity signifies a deep understanding of trends, quality, and customer preferences. When looking at collections from such established brands, you’ll find a blend of iconic historical designs reimagined for contemporary spaces, alongside innovative new patterns that reflect their enduring legacy. This can be a great place to find reliable quality and timeless style.

Installation: Getting it right the first time

Proper installation is key to achieving a professional-looking finish and ensuring your wallpaper lasts. While professional installation is always an option, many homeowners tackle this themselves. Here’s a breakdown of the process and common pitfalls.

Preparation is paramount

Before you even unroll your new wallpaper, thorough preparation is essential. The wall surface must be clean, dry, smooth, and free of any imperfections.

Clean the walls: Remove all dirt, grease, and old adhesive. A sugar soap solution is often recommended.
Repair imperfections: Fill any holes or cracks with spackle or joint compound and sand them smooth once dry.
Prime the walls: Applying a wallpaper primer is crucial. It seals the surface, making it easier to hang the wallpaper, prevents the paste from soaking into the drywall too quickly, and aids in future removal. Use a water-based primer specifically designed for wallpaper.
Remove old wallpaper: If you’re covering existing wallpaper, ensure it’s fully removed. Sometimes, covering old wallpaper directly can lead to peeling and bubbling issues down the line.

Tools and materials you’ll need

Gather these items before you start:

Wallpaper (enough for your project, plus extra for mistakes and future repairs)
Wallpaper paste (if not using pre-pasted or peel-and-stick)
Wallpaper primer
Measuring tape
Pencil
Level or plumb bob
Utility knife with sharp blades
Straight edge or metal ruler
Smoothing tools (a plastic smoother or wallpaper brush)
Seam roller (for vinyl wallpapers)
Bucket for paste and water
Sponge and clean cloths
Drop cloths to protect your floor

Hanging your wallpaper

The exact steps can vary slightly depending on the wallpaper type, but the general process is as follows:

Measure and cut your strips: Measure the height of your wall from ceiling to baseboard. Add 4-6 inches to this measurement for trimming at the top and bottom. Cut your first strip. For patterned wallpapers, you’ll need to match the pattern on subsequent strips, so cut extra length to account for the repeat.
Apply paste (if necessary): If using non-pasted wallpaper, apply an even coat of paste to the back of the strip, working from the center outwards. For pre-pasted paper, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wetting the paper (usually involves soaking in water). Peel-and-stick requires no paste.
Book the paper (for pasted wallpapers): Fold the pasted ends of the wallpaper strip towards the middle, paste-to-paste, without creasing. Let it ‘book’ for the time recommended by the manufacturer (usually 5-10 minutes). This allows the paste to activate and the paper to expand.
Hang the first strip: This is the most critical step. Use a level or plumb bob to draw a perfectly vertical guideline from the ceiling. Align the edge of your first strip with this guideline, allowing for the extra length at the top and bottom.
Smooth out bubbles and wrinkles: Using your smoothing tool, work from the center of the strip outwards, pressing firmly to eliminate air bubbles and wrinkles. Ensure the edges are well-adhered.
Trim the excess: Once the strip is in place and smoothed, use a sharp utility knife and a straight edge to carefully trim the excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboard.
Hang subsequent strips: Apply the next strip, butting the edges tightly against the previous strip. Avoid overlapping unless specifically instructed to do so. Match the pattern carefully. Use a seam roller on vinyl wallpapers to ensure seams are flat and well-adhered.
Clean as you go: Wipe away any excess paste with a damp sponge or cloth immediately. Dried paste can stain or leave a sheen.

Common installation mistakes to avoid

Poor wall preparation: This is the number one cause of wallpaper failure. Unprimed, dirty, or uneven walls will lead to peeling, bubbling, and tearing.
Not cutting enough wallpaper: Underestimating the amount needed, especially with patterned papers that have a repeat, will lead to having to stop mid-project to buy more, potentially from a different dye lot (which can result in color variations). Always buy at least 10-15% extra.
Overlapping strips (when not instructed): Most wallpapers are designed to be hung butt-jointed. Overlapping can create visible seams, especially as the wallpaper expands and contracts.
Using a dull blade: A dull utility knife blade will tear the wallpaper instead of cutting it cleanly, leaving a ragged edge. Change blades frequently.
Not using a level for the first strip: If your first strip isn’t perfectly vertical, all subsequent strips will be off, resulting in a visibly crooked wall.
Ignoring the pattern repeat: For patterned wallpapers, understanding and correctly matching the pattern repeat on each strip is essential. If you don’t, the pattern won’t align across seams, looking messy.

Inspiration & ‘How To’ Guides

Beyond the practicalities of hanging, there’s a wealth of inspiration to be found. Many brands and design blogs offer guides and lookbooks to help you visualize different styles. For example, exploring collections like the ‘Garden in the Sky’ with Kate Berry can spark ideas for a unique feature wall. You can also find guides on how to create specific looks, such as achieving a modern minimalist aesthetic or a cozy farmhouse feel. If you’re looking to make a bold statement, consider the dramatic flair of stunning peacock wallpaper designs, which can add a touch of exotic luxury to any room.

Perfectly Partnered: Style and Functionality

Choosing wallpaper isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality. For high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, selecting a scrubbable vinyl or a durable non-woven paper is essential. In bedrooms, you might opt for a softer, more muted design. When considering how your wallpaper will integrate with your furniture and existing decor, think about creating a cohesive look. For instance, if you have a lot of wood tones, a wallpaper with subtle texture or a complementary color can enhance the warmth of the space. Similarly, for spaces that need a touch of drama or whimsy, a bold pattern can serve as an excellent focal point. For those seeking to truly transform their space with eye-catching visuals, exploring options like stunning Yellowstone wallpaper can bring the grandeur of nature indoors.