If you have been reading my newsletter for anytime at all… you know I’m NOT a Huge Fan of Wallpaper. But – you might be one of those that thinks that adding wallpaper will just be “easier” than painting. 
I have used wallpaper. It’s not so much the installation that I don’t like… It is usually the thought of removal that keeps me up at night.
Choosing the right wallpaper should be thought through first. If not, you may get stuck with a pattern that you are not completely happy with. The worst thing to happen is if you are short a few rolls of wallpaper when in the middle of a job. So make sure you are totally prepared.
Here is a Checklist to Help You Choose The RIGHT Wallpaper.
Research – You will need to make sure you do your research before just picking up a couple rolls of wallpaper.
Take some time to go to your local wallpaper supplier and go through the many books and sample portfolios that they have.
In some store they offer a design consultant who will sit down with you and discuss your project. They can help you choose the right color and style that will fit your decor.
Bring home samples – In most stores, you can borrow the wallpaper sample books and take them home to see what the actual paper will look like in the room.
Look at them during different times of the day. Light can change the way colors look. Make sure you are happy with your wallpaper choice in the day light and evening light.
Types of wallpaper – There are a number of different types of wallpaper, such as: textured, embossed, metallic, and scenic (if you are going for the look of a mural).
Textured wallpaper is very popular, and there is a wide variety of textured papers on the market. They give a three-dimensional effect.
There are also fabric wall coverings available. They have a canvas-backing and they are even washable with soap and water. They can be used in bathrooms, kitchens, and even chilÂdren’s rooms.
Ordering the Wallpaper – Once you have picked your choice of wallpaper, talk to the wallpaper dealer. You will need to give them the dimensions of the room (how long and how high the walls are).
You will also need to let them know how many windows and doors are in the room so they can come up with the exact amount of rolls that you will need. It is always good to buy a few more rolls just in case of mistakes in cutting and pasting.
The dealer will usually take back any unused rolls. Before you leave the store, check the salvage (run number) numbers on each roll. They all need to be the same.
The last thing you want to do is get home, start the job, and find that you have the wrong paper.
Be sure to ask the dealer if there are any special instructions for applying the paper, especially if you have gotten fabric or metallic paper. I know it sounds like a lot of work…. but you will be so happy when all the wallpapering goes smoothly and turns out gorgeous.
And… if it doesn’t… well don’t say I didn’t warn you!
