Decorating your bedroom can be an exciting way to update your personal space and create a relaxing oasis. Using wallpaper is one of the most effective ways to transform the look and feel of your bedroom. With so many colors, patterns, and textures to choose from, wallpaper offers endless possibilities to spice up your bedroom décor.
In this expert guide, we will share tips and ideas to help you select the perfect wallpaper to give your bedroom a fresh new look. We will cover everything from choosing colors and patterns, to properly preparing your walls, to expert installation advice. Read on for an in-depth look at using wallpaper to breathe new life into your bedroom!
Choosing Wallpaper for the Bedroom
When selecting wallpaper for the bedroom, the most important factors to consider are color/pattern, texture, and practicality. Follow these tips to choose wallpaper that complements your existing décor and creates the ambiance you desire.
Complementary Colors and Patterns
Think about the overall color scheme and style of your bedroom. Neutral wallpaper can act as a blank canvas, while bold prints make a dramatic statement. Choose patterns featuring colors already present in your bedding, furniture, and accessories for a cohesive look. Florals, geometrics, and nature themes are classic options for bedrooms.
Texture and Dimension
Add depth to your bedroom with textured wallpaper. Options include embossed patterns, flocked paper with a velvety finish, vinyl with a leather-like look, and more. This creates visual interest and a lush feel.
Durability and Washability
Bedrooms tend to need wallpaper that stands up to wear and tear. Vinyl-coated paper is scrubbable and peelable, while some materials like grasscloth add texture but are less durable. Prioritize washable, Stripable wallpaper for easy removal.
Suit Your Lighting and Layout
Consider the amount of natural and artificial light in your bedroom. Bold or dark wallpaper can feel overpowering in a small, dark room, while airy prints suit bright spaces. Also, measure wall dimensions so you purchase enough paper to properly cover the space.
Preparing Walls for Wallpapering
Preparing your walls correctly ensures wallpaper adheres properly for a flawless finished look. Follow these steps:
Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
Walls should be cleaned thoroughly before hanging wallpaper. Wipe away all grease, dirt, or flakes of old wallpaper adhesive with a degreasing cleaner. Rinse thoroughly.
Repair Imperfections
Fix any holes, cracks, or uneven surfaces with spackle or drywall compound. Sand smooth when dry. This provides an even base for wallpaper.
Remove Wallpaper Borders and Switch Plates
Take down existing wallpaper borders and outlet/switch plate covers. This avoids overlaps in the new paper.
Apply Wallpaper Primer/Sizing
Priming walls helps wallpaper adhere. Apply a clear primer or adhesive “size” to walls before installing the paper. Let the sizing fully dry before hanging wallpaper.
Hanging Wallpaper Expertly
Follow these tips for flawlessly hanging wallpaper:
Plan Ahead and Measure Carefully
Thoroughly measure wall dimensions and your paper rolls to determine how many rolls you’ll need. Plan the layout so edges meet neatly in corners and patterns line up correctly across seams.
Set Up Work Station
Cover floors/furniture and prep paste/tools like a smoothing brush and razor. Arrange a work table nearby to hold wallpaper tools and cut sheets.
Prepare the Paste
Use a wallpaper paste designed for the paper’s material. Mix paste thoroughly according to instructions. Don’t make batches too far in advance or paste may dry out.
Cut Paper to Fit Walls
Measure and cut strips to size with extra length for handling. Cut edges on the correct side so paper hangs properly. Avoid creasing the paper.
Apply Evenly and Smooth Out
Use a wallpaper brush and plastic smoother to press paper evenly against walls, working out bubbles for a smooth finish. Don’t overwork seams as paper may tear.
Seal Edges Carefully
Use a seam roller to seal edges so they adhere securely. Trim excess length neatly along ceilings, baseboards, and corners.
Design Ideas for Wallpapering the Bedroom
Here are some creative ways to use wallpaper to spice up your bedroom:
Bold Feature Wall
Make a dramatic statement by wallpapering one wall as a bold “feature wall” focal point. Try a vibrant print or color behind the bed or on the wall opposite.
Neutral Background
Use a textured neutral wallpaper like grasscloth as a background and accessorize with colorful bedding, art, and decor accents that pop.
Unique Headboard
Apply wallpaper just behind the bed to create a cool, customized headboard look. Opt for a fun print that complements your bedding.
Picture Frame Accent
Frame art, mirrors or a dresser area with eye-catching wallpaper. Contrast the print with surrounding neutral walls.
Ceiling Paper
For a playful, cocooning effect, adorn the ceiling with Moroccan-inspired patterned paper or “wallpaper up” with a celestial print.
Tips for Removing Wallpaper from Bedroom Walls
Taking down existing bedroom wallpaper cleanly can be tricky. Follow these pro tips:
- Score paper with a perforator tool then soak with hot water or a removal solution to activate the glue.
- Peel off paper gradually using a putty knife, working top to bottom. Removers help loosen glue residue.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbing as it may damage walls underneath the paper.
- Use glue dissolver to treat stubborn adhesive, then rinse walls thoroughly.
- Sand off remaining glue bumps and prime walls for a fresh start!
Frequently Asked Questions About Wallpapering Bedrooms
Still have questions about selecting and installing wallpaper in the bedroom? Here are expert answers to commonly asked questions:
What’s the best wallpaper for bedrooms?
Washable vinyl-coated papers work well in bedrooms because they stand up to wear, moisture, and scrubbing. Pre-pasted, strippable papers are also good choices that make future removal easier.
How difficult is it to wallpaper a room?
With some preparation and patience, wallpapering a bedroom is very doable. The key steps of measuring, cutting, pasting, smoothing, and sealing just take practice. Watch tutorials to familiarize yourself with the process.
Should I remove existing wallpaper or paper over it?
It’s best to remove old wallpaper if possible, to avoid bumps or seams showing through new paper. Covering over existing wallpaper should only be done once as a temporary fix.
How long does wallpapering take?
Hanging wallpaper takes about 2-4 days for an average 10’ x 12’ bedroom. Prep work takes 1-2 days, then 1-2 days are needed for installation. Drying time between steps adds time as well.
Is wallpaper expensive compared to paint?
Wallpaper is generally more expensive upfront, with rolls costing $20 to over $100 each. But it lasts much longer than paint without needing frequent repainting. The durability offsets higher initial costs.
Should I wallpaper all four bedroom walls?
It’s common to wallpaper just one statement wall or the area around the bed. Wallpapering all 4 walls can make a small room feel busy. Choose the most impactful wall for the print.
Conclusion
Revamping your bedroom with stylish, unique wallpaper instantly upgrades your space with color, texture and pattern. By choosing paper suited to your room’s layout and décor, prepping surfaces thoroughly and carefully installing the paper, you can enjoy a bedroom wallpaper makeover that feels fresh and inviting. From bold floral feature walls to textured neutral backdrops, wallpaper offers endless possibilities for breathing new life into tired bedrooms. With this expert guidance, you’re ready to spice up your bedroom walls with dazzling wallpaper designs!
