Most people who have decorated a house feel that decorating with wallpaper can be difficult. However, this isn't necessarily true. If you plan the process well and use the correct techniques, you can easily enhance your living space with wallpaper. These five tips will help guide you through the process of decorating with wallpaper.

 

article continues below ↓

1. Consider the Size of the Room

Before choosing the color and pattern of wallpaper, consider the size of the room. This consideration can greatly affect the final appearance of the room because various color and pattern choices impact the perceived room size. For example, if your goal is to make the room appear larger, then you may consider choosing light colors and simple, subtle patterns. To make a room appear smaller or cozy, you may choose dark colors or more bold patterns.

2. Consider the Age and Architecture of the Home

Before purchasing wallpaper for your home, it is crucial to consider the age of the home, its architecture, and any unique characteristics. For example, a colonial style home can accommodate certain patterns that would not necessarily "fit" in an art deco home. By choosing a pattern that coincides with the era or style of the home, it actually enhances the home's character and exemplifies its original style.

3. Prepare the Walls before Applying

Visible wear and tear on walls is common — from nails, or from uneven areas caused by paint or surface imperfections. It is vital for the quality of the final product that the walls are completely smooth. Prior to application, remove any visible nails, clean the walls with mild soap and water, then spackle and sand visible holes or uneven areas. When the walls are smooth and clean, the wallpaper will stick better.

4. Verify the Wallpaper is Appropriate for the Room

Wallpaper comes in different thicknesses and qualities. Some are more durable than others. Before purchasing your wallpaper, determine how the room will be used. If it is a high traffic area, such as a hallway or kid's room, it is essential that you purchase a high quality, high durability wallpaper. If it's a master bedroom or guest room, a less durable wallpaper may work perfectly. There is a suitable wallpaper for virtually any type of room. The chore is picking the right paper.

5. Use Wallpaper in Innovative Ways

Wallpaper is versatile and is not restricted to use on walls. Consider using wallpaper to line the bottom of bookcases or china cabinets. Use creative wallpaper designs to cover electrical outlets. For example, highlight a certain children's theme by placing a similar pattern on the electrical outlets throughout the child's bedroom. Consider wallpaper for covering picture frames or using as matting for a standard picture frame. For special occasions, bring out your leftover wallpaper scraps to wrap gifts. This is a unique and innovative way of designing a creative gift. Lastly, cover an old table that may need to be rejuvenated.

 

Ultimately, wallpaper can serve versatile needs within the home. In addition to the points above, just add imagination.

 

 

 

About James Adams

James Adams has written on a wide range of topics including house cleaning and decorating.