Peel-and-stick wallpaper offers the classic look of traditional wallpaper at a fraction of the price and without the need for a lengthy commitment or intricate installation process. A key concern is whether this popular do-it-yourself wall covering is genuinely simpler to handle than conventional wallpaper. To gain insights, we consulted Jennifer Matthews, the Chief Creative Officer at Tempaper & Co., who has hands-on experience with both types of wallpaper.
Matthews’ response was affirmative: peel-and-stick wallpaper is indeed more manageable. It eliminates the need to hire a professional installer, there’s no need to deal with messy paste, no time constraints during application, and it can be easily removed. Moreover, it’s particularly suitable for renters. If you’re interested in understanding how the product operates, its advantages, and how to select the perfect design for your home, here’s what the expert had to share.
Traditional wallpaper and peel-and-stick wallpaper are distinct products, and Matthews advises treating them as such. After working with both, she believes that peel-and-stick wallpaper is simpler to apply for three main reasons.
Firstly, there’s no need for a sticky mess to clean up; all you have to do is peel off the backing and affix the paper to your surface. Secondly, it’s DIY-friendly and doesn’t necessitate professional installation, unlike traditional wallpaper. Lastly, there’s no urgency when using peel-and-stick wallpaper. “In contrast to traditional wallpaper, where you must act swiftly before the paste dries, peel-and-stick wallpaper offers the convenience of working at your leisure,” Matthews explains. This means you can install panels at your own pace, taking breaks as needed.
Furthermore, the product is typically more affordable than traditional wallpaper and doesn’t incur the additional expense of hiring a professional installer, as peel-and-stick wallpaper is designed for a DIY approach.
“Peel-and-stick wallpaper empowers renters to refresh their space and make it feel like home without the drawbacks of traditional wallpaper,” Matthews states. She emphasizes that it’s suitable for both short-term and long-term use, allowing for easy removal when moving out of a rental.
Matthews also notes that their peel-and-stick wallpaper is designed to be resistant to steam and moisture, making it an ideal choice for humid areas like bathrooms.
Not all peel-and-stick wallpapers are created equal, and it’s crucial to refer to the product label for specific instructions. However, Matthews offers some expert advice for applying the wall covering.
To achieve the best outcome, select the appropriate surface for a seamless application and a perfect finish. Matthews suggests working with a clean, smooth, and dry surface. Be as accurate as possible when measuring the peel-and-stick wallpaper and remember to measure twice before cutting once. “Take your time and ensure each panel is perfectly aligned,” the expert advises. Find the application method that suits you best. Matthews notes that you can work directly from the roll or use pre-cut panels, choosing the method that is most convenient and effective for you. Avoid rushing the process. Matthews points out that one of the significant benefits of peel-and-stick wallpaper is the flexibility to work at your own pace without the worry of paste drying too quickly. If you find yourself feeling frustrated or making errors, take a break and step away from the project for a moment.
“Selecting the right design is a personal choice, and we encourage you to take your time to explore options,” Matthews says. To begin, she recommends taking the brand’s design quiz, which can assist you in finding the ideal print for your project. Before making a final decision on wallpaper, Matthews strongly advises ordering a sample to test factors such as:
Adhesion: A sample will show how well the wallpaper adheres to your walls, which is particularly important if your walls have a textured finish. Texture evaluation: If you’re considering a textured wallpaper like grasscloth, a sample allows you to assess the texture and determine if it’s suitable for your space. Color coordination: Examining the sample in person ensures you see the true color of the product and how it complements your existing decor and paint colors. Lighting and room colors can affect the appearance of a design, and samples provide a better sense of how the wallpaper will integrate into your space. Natural lighting assessment: Colors can look different throughout the day, and it’s crucial to view the sample in various lighting conditions to ensure it suits your space at different times. Matthews also notes that metallic elements in some designs may appear differently in different lights, and a sample can help you decide if the wallpaper aligns with your aesthetic.
Ultimately, Matthews advises trusting your instincts. “Whether it’s color or style that influences your choice, you can’t go wrong with what brings you joy,” she says.
