3 Reasons Why You Need Wallpaper in Your Home
By Jenni Wileman, Writer for the Home décor and Home Improvement Markets
Wallpaper, yes, wallpaper is back in style. Oh, wait, was it ever actually out of style or just underutilized? I am not talking about your grandmother’s wallpaper, the ones with the vintage flowers streaming down a drab tan backdrop in her sitting room. And, I am definitely not talking about the little apples dancing across a border on the walls in her kitchen. Oh my!
I’m talking about jaw-dropping, cutting edge, designer wallpaper. I’m talking about wallpaper that can take a room from boring to exciting in just a couple hours. Here are 3 things that will change your opinion about wallpaper and have you running to the home improvement store.
1. It is easier than ever before to apply
Since the 1700s wallpaper has been making its way into the homes of the elite. Over the centuries it has evolved and become more accessible to the masses. And guess what, the days of messy glue brushed onto the back are a thing of the past. Today there are several easy-to-apply methods that will change the way you think about wallpaper.
Prepasted Wallpaper
Prepasted wallpaper is a great option. It comes in rolls and has the dried glue already applied to the back. You simply roll or spray water on the back to moisten the glue, wait 10 minutes, and then hang. It requires less skill and practice than the traditional types of paper. And is a DIY that anyone can do. With the right tools and patience, it can be applied in just a few short hours. Plus these days there are so many resources to help your confidence and skill. And when in doubt, Google, and learn as you go.
Another comforting note: The dreaded days of removal are also a thing of the past. Prepasted wallpapers are just as easy to remove as they are to apply.
Peel and Stick Paper
Then there is peel and stick. Sigh….and a smiley emoji. That sounds easy, right? It is!!! Peel and stick is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. Designed to be removable and reusable, meaning it’s foolproof too. Perfect for the first time DIY-ers and those who just want to keep it simple. And don’t we all need a little more simple in our lives?
Measure. Peel. Stick. Done.
Keep in mind that lining up the sticky paper, especially ones with patterns, can be tricky. But, because it is reusable you can remove and restick as many times as you need. And a good thing to keep in mind, keep the backing of the paper and you can take it with you when you move. It’s that easy.
And like the prepasted papers, peel and stick wallpapers also come in thousands of styles and patterns to choose from. And both types of wallpaper are sold at almost every home improvement store and of course, on-line.
Tip: Always prep your walls before applying any type of wall coverings. Fill holes with spackle and sand smooth, remove cover plates (those little things around your lights and plugs.) It’s also recommended to lightly sand any shiny paint and clean walls thoroughly before moving on to the application stage.
2. Variety Is the Spice of Your Home
With textures, patterns, and innovations to stun any home decorator. From papers made out of vinyl, fabric, woven grass, unique textures, beaded papers, to ones that even have led lights embedded. Your creativity is limitless with wallpaper. There are so many, but here are a few of the top 2020 trends.
If you want to make a bold statement go for a metallic.
We’ll be seeing a lot of monochrome décor in 2020. Check out this Scandinavian Living Room, Stockholm.
In 2020 designers are taking gradient to a whole new level. Watch for nature scenes and soft tones.
Wave patterns and jewel tones are also making a splash this year. Check out the wallpaper in the award-winning bathroom.
TIP: Be sure to consider the scale you don’t want a tiny pattern on a 10-foot wall. And you don’t want to use a large print in a tiny powder room either. But, don’t be afraid of expressive patterns and dramatic prints. Be bold and use your imagination.
3. You Can Use It Almost Anywhere
The good news is that there really are no rules that you need to follow. So consider unconventional uses like wallpapering a bookcase or using it in a small alcove. Jazz up a closet or bathroom by papering the ceiling. The right paper can add a distinctive look to overlooked rooms.
Check out this ceiling paper
Get crazy and even use a patterned wallpaper to brighten and old lampshades.
Leftover wallpaper can even be framed to create art.
The pantry is another overlooked nook that can be stylish as well as functional.
A waist basket covered with a lively pattern can serve as an accent and not an afterthought.
Wallpaper is also a much more durable drawer liner. And if you want an extra design element cover the edges too. You can also cover the drawer fronts to add some patterns to your room.
Papering inside the risers of the staircase is a way to bring a distinct look and create an elegant entryway. It will also make cleaning those dreaded black toe scuffs much easier.
Lining the top of a coffee table is a great way to add pizazz to your living space. Plus if you love variety, use peel and stick and you can change it out in minutes!
Tip: You can try to paper just about anything in your home that has a flat enough surface. Again, there are no real rules and with wallpaper being so easy to remove you can try to paper just about anything. And if it doesn’t work – take it off!
It’s Sticking Time
So whether you hire a professional or you’re a budget shopper. Home decorating is a way to bring your personality into your living space.
Using wallpaper for pops of color and patterns can liven a room that would otherwise be boring. Wallpaper is a fun DIY project too, so get with the 2020 tren and start sticking!