Grass cloth wallpaper is making a major comeback in interior design, bringing natural texture and organic pattern to modern rooms. The textured, fibrous material pairs beautifully with all styles from modern to traditional. When working with grass cloth wallpaper, pay special attention to the wall preparation and installation. With the right approach, walls and grass cloth can live in perfect harmony.

What is Grass Cloth Wallpaper?

Grass cloth wallpaper, also known as fibrous wallpaper or grasspaper, is a type of wallcovering made from natural fibers like grasses, reeds, or bamboo. The long strands are woven together to create a textured, organic surface with visible fibers.

The grass cloth is attached to a paper backing, then printed or dyed to create different colors and patterns. The muted tones and striated texture bring nature indoors. Grass cloth adds rustic flair to any room with its raw, textural appeal.

Key features:

• Made from natural plant fibers like grasses, jute, ramie, or bamboo
• Has a bumpy, fibrous texture with visible strands
• Often has uneven coloring with variations in hue
• Adds a casual, organic look to walls
• Available plain or with prints and patterns
• Durable and long-lasting with proper installation

Grass cloth originally comes from Asia where it’s been used for centuries. It rose in popularity in Europe during the Arts & Crafts movement. Today it’s back in style once again, covering modern high-rise apartments and farmhouse-chic homes.

Why Choose Grass Cloth Wallpaper?

Grass cloth wallpaper offers some unique benefits that make it a standout choice for wall décor:

Natural Texture

The visible strands and organic surface bring natural depth and interest to walls. Grass cloth adds tactile, textural appeal to any space.

Variation in Color

Since it’s made from natural fibers, grass cloth has color variations that give it character. Subtle shifts in tone add authenticity.

Casual Sophistication

Grass cloth is refined yet relaxed. It pairs well with both formal spaces and casual rooms equally. It adds a touch of elegance without being stuffy.

Durability

Grass cloth is woven from durable plant fibers that hold up better than regular paper wallpaper. Properly installed, it can last for many years.

Versatility

From modern to farmhouse, grass cloth suits a range of design aesthetics. It pairs well with both bold colors and neutral palettes.

Eco-Friendly Material

Made from plant-based fibers, grass cloth is a more sustainable wall covering option than vinyl alternatives. It’s a green material choice.

Beyond its appealing look and feel, grass cloth offers practical advantages as well. Keep reading to learn how to make the most of grass cloth in your home.

Preparing Walls for Grass Cloth Installation

The key to successfully installing grass cloth wallpaper is proper wall preparation. Taking time to ready your walls will ensure the grass cloth adheres neatly for a flawless finish.

Remove existing wallpaper – Strip down old wallpaper or other existing wall coverings. Grass cloth will look uneven over imperfections.

Fix imperfections – Fill any holes, cracks or uneven spots with spackle for a smooth surface. Sand bumps or rough patches.

Prime the walls – Use high-quality primer like Zinsser Bulls Eye to create a uniform foundation.

Consider lining paper – Lining paper creates an extra smooth finish for grass cloth to stick to evenly.

Clean thoroughly – Wipe down walls to remove dust, oils and soap residue that could impede adhesion.

Proper prep removes bumps and flaws so your grass cloth will lie flat. This helps the fibers hang neatly and prevents visible seams or bubbles.

How to Install Grass Cloth Wallpaper

Once your walls are prepped, it’s time to install the grass cloth wallpaper. Have patience and work methodically for the best outcome.

Gather your materials – This includes grass cloth rolls, wallpaper adhesive, seam adhesive, smoother/roller, spray bottle, sponges, razor and straight edge.

Plan the layout – Determine the layout to minimize seams and waste. Cut rolls according to measurements.

Apply adhesive – Use a paint roller or brush to spread wallpaper adhesive evenly across the wall surface.

Mount the grass cloth – Carefully align the grass cloth sheets and smooth from top to bottom. Avoid tugging to keep fibers straight.

Trim seams – Use a sharp razor and straightedge to cut seams. Take care not to catch and pull fibers.

Seal seams – Apply seam adhesive to bond grass cloth edges together. Use a damp sponge to remove excess.

Smooth surface – Gently roll over the grass cloth, working top to bottom to remove bubbles and ensure adhesion.

Clean up – Use a lightly damp sponge to wipe away any adhesive residue or overage.

Let dry – Allow the adhesive to fully cure overnight before hanging any items on the grass cloth.

With attention to detail, your grass cloth will hug the wall flawlessly for a cohesive organic look.

Hanging Artwork, Fixtures, and More

Once installed, special care should be taken when decorating walls covered in grass cloth. The fibrous material is durable but also delicate. Here are some tips for accessorizing grass cloth walls:

• Use picture rail molding for easy artwork hanging without damaging walls
• Choose lightweight frames and avoid heavy mirrors or large shelving
• Opt for narrow nails and map pins when hanging items to minimize holes
• Use low-tack removable adhesive hooks that won’t leave marks behind
• Attach sconces, shelves and more into wall studs to disperse weight
• Touch up any nail holes or damage spots with grass cloth filler pens
• Add panels of timber, tiles or wallpaper for accents without puncturing grass cloth

Take precautions when decorating to keep your grass cloth pristine. The natural material will bring unique texture to your rooms for years to come.

Common Questions about Grass Cloth Wallpaper

Is grass cloth suitable for every room?

While it can work in any room, grass cloth is best suited to bedrooms, living spaces, dining rooms and studies. The textured finish helps make relaxing spaces feel cozy and welcoming. Use caution in humidity-prone spaces like bathrooms.

Does the texture rub off over time?

When properly sealed and cared for, grass cloth maintains its fibrous texture for many years. Avoid repeatedly touching, scrubbing or scuffing the grass cloth surface to prevent wear over time.

Can you paint over grass cloth?

It is possible but extremely difficult to paint over grass cloth wallpaper. The textured surface takes paint unevenly. Remove old grass cloth and prepare walls to achieve the best finish.

Is special adhesive required?

Yes, you must use a wallpaper adhesive made specifically for grass cloth. The fibers require a stronger grip. Do not attempt to use regular wallpaper glue or paste.

How durable and long-lasting is it?

Grass cloth is surprisingly durable compared to regular wallpaper when installed correctly on properly prepared walls. It also hides minor scuffs better than flat paint. With care, it can last over a decade.

Decorating with Grass Cloth Wallpaper

Grass cloth instantly infuses spaces with texture, nature, and cozy appeal. Here are some top tips for decorating rooms featuring grass cloth walls:

Highlight natural features – Let the grass cloth be the star. Avoid competing busy patterns. Opt for solid fabrics and furniture in natural hues.

Layer in texture – Pair grass cloth with coarse woods, rattan accents, cowhides, linen bedding, velvet pillows. Mixing textures creates depth.

Incorporate greenery – Compliment the organic grass cloth with live plants, dried palms and floral arrangements. Add a welcoming dose of nature.

Use warm minimalism – Grass cloth calls for an edited approach. Focus on warm woods, clean lines, and muted colors to let the walls stand out.

Play with lighting – Grass cloth has dimension and shadow. Use strategic lighting like sconces or picture lights. Natural light also brings out the texture.

Keep furnishings light – Visually balance the dark grass cloth with lighter-hued furnishings and decor. Avoid overpowering the walls.

Let the grass cloth make a natural statement. Enhance the organic motif with strategic contrasts and accents throughout the space.

Types of Grass Cloth Patterns

Beyond solid colors, grass cloth wallpaper comes in a range of printed patterns and effects. From subtle textures to bold graphics, grass cloth adapts to a variety of styles.

Solid – Single color grass cloth can be dramatic on its own. Opt for neutrals or make a bold statement.

Bamboo – Bamboo grass cloth features visible bamboo fibers for prominent vertical texture.

Striated – Horizontal lines pressed into the grass cloth create subtle striped texture.

Basketweave – A woven basketweave pattern impressed into the grassy fibers adds dimensional detail.

Palm – Vertical frond-like patterns mimic tropical palm leaves for organic impact.

Banana Leaf – Oversize banana leaf shapes printed on grass cloth add a jungalow vibe.

Metallic – Shimmering metallic grass cloth adds glamour and catches the light beautifully.

Ombre – Grass cloth printed in ombre gradients from light to dark make a soft statement.

Textured – Small bumps or irregularities applied to grass cloth increase dimension.

Flocked – Flocked grass cloth is printed with velvet flocking for extra depth and sheen.

Whether going for a bold jungle print, natural bamboo, or tone-on-tone stripes, grass cloth offers endless possibilities. Choose a pattern that captures your style.

Ideas for Rooms with Grass Cloth Accents

Beyond covering full walls, grass cloth can be used strategically as an accent in several clever ways:

Backsplash – Use grass cloth behind kitchen or bathroom sinks in place of tile for natural flair.

Ceiling – Install strips or panels of grass cloth on the ceiling for an unexpected detail.

Ceiling Coffers – Grass cloth gives ceiling coffered sections beautiful organic texture.

Soffits – Box out grass cloth recessed sections for shelving or cabinetry.

Wrapped Beams – Add strips of grass cloth to wrap exposed ceiling beams or rope lighting.

Wainscoting – Use grass cloth below chair rail molding to emulate wainscoting texture.

Door Panels – Grass cloth instantly livens up plain doors. Try inside closets too.

Staircase – Use grass cloth to cover stair risers while treads remain wood.

Niche Displays – Frame out display nooks wrapped in grass cloth to highlight decor.

With smart placement, a little grass cloth goes a long way to elevate rooms with natural flair.

Adding Focal Points to Grass Cloth Walls

Once grass cloth is installed across an entire room, the uniform texture can compete with other elements like artwork. Clever tricks help certain features stand out against the busy backdrop.

Gallery Wall Frames – Outfit artwork with wide frames to create contrast from grass cloth texture.

Picture Ledges – Display art and objects on wall-mounted ledges that pop against the grass cloth.

Collections – Cluster collections of objects together for more visual impact.

Bold Wallpaper – Use panels of contrasting wallpaper as a graphic statement against grass cloth.

Sconces – Strategic lighting illuminates artwork while adding shine to grass cloth fibers.

Mirrors – Hang framed mirrors to amplify light and illuminate focal points.

Wainscoting – Use contrasting grass cloth only on lower walls below chair rail molding.

Focal Walls – If using grass cloth on multiple walls, choose one feature wall in a different texture.

With smart contrasts and accents, you can make art and furniture stand out beautifully against ornamental grass cloth walls.

Maintaining Grass Cloth Over Time

Grass cloth will retain its handsome, textural appeal for many years when properly maintained:

• Gently dust walls with a feather duster or soft brush periodically
• Use a specialty grass cloth wallpaper cleaner for occasional deeper cleaning
• Blot spills quickly with a dry cloth to prevent stains from setting
• Avoid abrasive cleaners, scrub brushes or anything that could catch on the grass fibers
• Use tack putty when hanging artwork to prevent adhesive residue on walls
• Limit direct sunlight exposure to prevent UV fading over time
• Consider touch-up filler pens to disguise any minor nicks or marks
• Repair any moisture related issues immediately to prevent mold or mildew growth

With reasonable care and gentle cleaning, your grass cloth walls will stay looking fresh as new. Redecorate surrounding furniture and art without redoing the foundational grass cloth.

When to Call a Professional

While minor grass cloth repairs can be attempted yourself, know when it’s wise to call in a wallpaper installation pro:

• If you have large sections of grass cloth pulling away from the walls or ceiling
• If moisture problems have caused the grass cloth to grow mold, mildew or bubble
• If you need to remove all existing grass cloth to install a new style
• If the existing grass cloth was installed improperly and needs complete reapplication
• If your grass cloth walls have extensive damage beyond just a few nicks and scratches
• If you want to install new grass cloth in a room without prior experience

Don’t risk further damage by overdoing DIY repairs. Professional installers have the skills to fix or replace grass cloth properly.

Grass Cloth Sets the Scene

Walls covered in natural, textural grass cloth set the foundation for a welcoming, lived-in space. The organic pattern pairs perfectly with both vintage and modern furnishings alike. With proper installation and care, grass cloth will bring cozy cottage character or refined sophistication to your rooms.

Let this renewable material make an eco-chic statement in your home. Grass cloth sets walls and decor alike in their natural glory. No matter your personal style, this fiber full of flair sets a warm, elemental scene.

Conclusion

Grass cloth wallpaper can bring natural depth, texture and character to any space when thoughtfully incorporated. With proper wall prep and careful installation, grass cloth and walls play nicely together for a flawless finish. Maintenance is straightforward, just requiring gentle care. Decorating with grass cloth is also simple by following basic design principles like mixing textures and defining focal points. With its casual sophistication and eco-friendly composition, it’s easy to see why grass cloth is making a major comeback in today’s interiors.