Have you ever wished you could add a touch of elegance to your textured walls? Well, there’s a solution that might surprise you: wallpaper. Yes, that’s right. Wallpaper can be used on textured walls, depending on the level of texture. Let’s explore this heartfelt and transformative approach to interior design.
First, let’s address the common question: Can you really use wallpaper on textured walls? The answer is a reassuring “Yes!” However, it’s important to consider the level of texture. Light to moderate textures, like stippling or orange peel, can provide a lovely backdrop for wallpaper. Keep in mind that heavily textured walls may require additional preparation.
Evaluating the level of texture
In more humid climates, homes are built with untextured walls. While this is more expensive during renovations, it’s done because of the moisture build up that can happen in textured walls leading to mold. For that reason, most homes in more humid climates are custom to having wallpaper (just think of Reese Witherspoon in her southern home!) However, in the dryer climates a way to save on the renovations of a home is to texturize the walls and this is done in a variety of styles.
The style of texture will decide on whether or not you can use wallpaper. Peel and stick paper is best for the smoothest wall possible because the adhesive isn’t as strong (making it easy to remove down the road). This is also true for the Modern Magic wallpapers that come with water activating adhesive (again, an easy to remove wallpaper.)
While there are a variety of wallpaper textures out there, below are some of the most common that will give you an understanding of what will and won’t work for your home.
Heavily Textured Walls: Popcorn and Lace
The popcorn + lace wall textures are a heavy texture with little flat space for an adhesive to stick. That’s ideally what we’re looking for. With such a sharp texture, it will poke at the wallpaper showing the texture all the way through and most likely not staying to the wall for a long period of time. This is a style of wall texture is one that I would suggest not apply wallpaper of any kind to. You’ll either want to retexture your walls (best to do this through a wallpaper installation company, it will save you money, vs. going through a contractor) or choose to use wallpaper in other places like the back of bookcases, in drawers or on the side of furniture as a unique pop of color and pattern in your design.
Medium Textured Walls: Orange Peel
Now, orange peel texture can come in a few different degrees. The one shown here is a medium to high level of texture but there is enough flat surface that a strong glue can use. This is the type of texture that won’t work for easily removable paper like peel and stick or water activated pre-pasted paper. Instead, you’ll want the heavy duty adhesive to use for these textured wall. This is also the case that a thicker paper (all of the Modern Magic’s wallpaper come on thick paper to prevent anything showing through) and a design that doesn’t have a white or super light background.
Low Textured Walls: Knockdown
Knockdown textured walls are great for a glue based adhesive paper. Because there is so much flat surface, they are the ideal when it comes to textured walls. You could try a peel and stick paper or water activated pre-pasted wallpaper but odds are they won’t last for the long run. So, just to be safe, on all textured walls I encourage applying your own wallpaper paste. Same rules apply as with Orange Peel that you should still stick with thick paper and to not have too light of a background to ensure texture isn’t showing through. Also the more complex/busy the pattern, the harder it will be to see any texture coming through.
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Choosing the Right Wallpaper for Textured Walls
Opt for wallpapers with a forgiving pattern or design, such as large-scale motifs, organic textures, or abstract prints. These styles can help minimize the visual impact of the wall texture, creating a cohesive and appealing look. Consider vinyl or fabric-backed wallpapers, as they are more flexible and can adhere better to textured surfaces.
As stated above, the color palette of the paper will also make a difference as well as the thickness of the paper. White or light colored background papers will often show off more of the texture and the thinner the paper the more the texture comes through. I love a grasscloth wallpaper but it’s extra thick and needs a good amount of support. The least amount of wall texture is ideal for this paper.
Preparing the Walls for Installation
Proper wall preparation is crucial for a smooth wallpaper application. Start by cleaning the walls thoroughly, removing any dust, dirt, or loose debris. Repair any damaged areas or imperfections, filling in cracks and smoothing rough spots. Sand down high points of texture, taking care to maintain the overall integrity of the wall texture. Finally, apply a primer to create a suitable surface for the wallpaper adhesive. (This step will also help with making removal easier in the future. By bypassing this step, paper removal will be a lot harder so know that if you think you’ll ever want to change these walls.)
Using Wallpaper to Conceal Flaws
Now, let’s talk about the beauty of wallpaper. Imagine walking into a room adorned with a captivating wallpaper design from Modern Magic’s home decor collection. Their range of designs, from delicate florals to captivating geometrics, will bring a sense of wonder to your space. The right wallpaper can complement your existing decor and add a touch of sophistication to your textured walls.
But wallpaper offers more than just aesthetics. It can also help conceal minor imperfections, giving your textured walls a smoother appearance. It’s a simple yet effective way to create a polished and inviting space.
When applying wallpaper to textured walls, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and seek professional guidance if needed. Proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful installation. Smooth out any rough patches, fill in gaps, and prime the wall before applying the wallpaper. With a little care, you can achieve a seamless integration between the texture and the design.
When to call a Wallpaper Installer
While DIY installation of wallpaper on textured walls is certainly possible with the right preparation and patience, there may be instances when it’s best to call a professional wallpaper installer. Consider seeking their expertise if you have heavily textured walls that require extensive preparation or if you’re working with delicate or intricate wallpaper patterns that demand precision and expertise. Additionally, if you lack experience or feel unsure about tackling the installation process, a professional installer can provide peace of mind and ensure a flawless result. Their knowledge and specialized tools can save you time and potential frustration, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of wallpaper on your textured walls with complete confidence.
Cover more than your Walls
Wallpaper is a versatile design element that can go beyond walls, allowing you to explore creative possibilities throughout your living space. If your walls are simply too textured for wallpaper and it’s not in your budget to smooth them out, consider using wallpaper to breathe new life into various areas and objects. For instance, you can apply wallpaper to the back panels of bookshelves or cabinets, instantly adding depth and visual interest. Dressing up the drawer fronts of dressers or desks with wallpaper can provide a delightful surprise every time you open them.
Lastly, smaller DIY projects like lining the inside of trays or framing wallpaper as unique art pieces can bring an unexpected touch of style and personality to your home. By thinking outside the box, you can find numerous opportunities to incorporate wallpaper and infuse your space with its charming allure.
Add Wallpaper to your Space
So, whether you’re looking for a striking focal point or a subtle accent, don’t let textured walls limit your creativity. Embrace the beauty of wallpaper and unlock the potential of your space. Take a moment to explore Modern Magic’s home decor shop and discover their captivating wallpaper designs. Let your imagination guide you as you transform your textured walls into a personal expression of style and warmth.
Remember, with the right wallpaper, your textured walls can become a canvas for heartfelt self-expression. It’s time to infuse your space with beauty and create an atmosphere that speaks to your soul.
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