Ever found yourself with a leftover roll of wrapping paper, "-" you might wonder, can you use wrapping paper as wallpaper? The idea is creative and budget-friendly, but it's essential to consider various aspects before you dive in.
Wrapping paper, with its vibrant designs and colors, can transform a room, bringing a festive cheer that lasts beyond the holiday season. But let's explore if it's a practical and durable option for your walls.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Before you start redecorating, let's weigh the pros and cons of using wrapping paper as wallpaper.
The most apparent advantage is the sheer variety of designs. From geometric patterns to whimsical illustrations, wrapping paper offers a world of choice that's often more affordable than traditional wallpaper.
Cost-Effective and Instant Gratification
Wrapping paper is significantly cheaper than traditional wallpaper. You can often find rolls for under $5, allowing you to cover a room for less than $30.
Moreover, it's an instant transformation. Unlike traditional wallpaper or paint, you can cover a wall in mere hours, with no drying time needed.
Durability and Maintenance
The downside is durability. Wrapping paper isn't designed to withstand scrubbing, heat, or humidity. It can tear, peel, or fade over time, especially in high-traffic areas or bathrooms.
Maintaining it can be tricky too. Dirt can't be wiped off; instead, you'll need to spot-clean gently or replace any damaged sections.
How to Use Wrapping Paper as Wallpaper
If the pros outweigh the cons for your specific situation, let's dive into how to make it work.
Preparation is key. Before you start, ensure your walls are clean, dry, and free from any damage. Slightly sanding the walls can help the adhesive stick better.
Materials and Application
You'll need: scissors or a sharp craft knife, a cutter, wrapping paper, wallpaper paste (or PVA glue in a pinch), a paintbrush, a smoothing tool or soft brush, and a measuring tape.
Measure your walls, and cut your wrapping paper strips slightly wider than the width to allow for trimming. Apply glue to the wall, not the paper, and smooth it on using a brush or roller. Place the paper, working from one corner, and use your smoothing tool to eliminate any bubbles or creases.
Trimming and Touch-ups
Once dry, trim the edges with a craft knife, and touch up any rough spots. For seams, you can overlap slightly for a seamless look or match patterns carefully.
Pro tip: Don't apply too much glue. If it bleeds through, it can discolor the paper and make touch-ups challenging.
Alternatives and Care Tips
If you're not ready to commit to the potential maintenance of wrapping paper, consider removable adhesive wallpaper. It's easier toposition and remove when the time comes.
For wrapping paper, here are a few care tips: keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading, be gentle when cleaning, and reapply a light layer of glue if any edges start to peel back.
Redecorating with Ease
One of the best aspects of wrapping paper is that it's a trial run. Don't love the pattern anymore? Just peel it off and try something new. It's a no-commitment way to express your creativity and taste.
So, can you use wrapping paper as wallpaper? Absolutely, with the right know-how and expectations. It's not a permanent solution, but it's a quick, affordable way to spruce up a space until you're ready for something more lasting.