What’s one of the easiest, most inexpensive ways to change a room? Paint, right? While paint will do wonders in transforming a room, it is not the only option available. There’s wainscoting, tile, mirror, stone, brick and any number of other wallcovering options. There is also wallpaper. Wallpaper has made a comeback in recent years, and it’s not nearly as difficult to work with as it once was.
Gone are the days when you had to spend hours applying wallpaper, wetting strip after strip and working hard to get every strip just so the first time around. Manufacturers are now producing peel-and-stick wallpaper that can be applied, repositioned and removed in a matter of minutes. That’s right. No more wasted wallpaper because you didn’t get it right the first time around. If the strip is crooked, simply peel it off the wall and try again. No more scrapers or steamers either. When you are ready to change the look of the room, simply peel off the wallpaper and do whatever you want to the damage-free walls.
Damage-free walls? Yep, the peel-and-stick wallpaper is not only easy to apply and remove, but it is breathable. You don’t have to use a scraper to remove it and you don’t have to worry about moisture getting trapped behind it and leaving traces of mildew for you to scrub off. Your walls will look the way they did before you applied the wallpaper to them.
You will find peel-and-stick wallpaper at a number of retailers. If you’re not sold on the idea, the standard peelable and strippable wallpapers are still available and there are many colors, patterns and textures to choose from. Go into any store that carries wallpaper and you will find dozens of colors and patterns from muted florals to big, bold stripes and everything in-between. You will also find numerous textured wallpapers available from burlap to grasscloth.
Colorwashing. Dragging. Rag rolling. Sponging. Stippling. You know all about the faux finishes you can create with paint, but did you know you can find wallpaper with those faux finishes? Forget the work involved in painting a faux finish and shop for wallpaper with the effect you want. Then apply it and get a consistent faux finish around the room in a lot less time.
Looking for flair? Try metallic wallpaper. The iridescent inks in the paper will add a touch of shimmer and drama to any room. Metallic wallpapers come in various textures and colors from copper and bronze to silver and gold. If you’ve got the budget, you might also want to look into glass-beaded wallpapers. These can be rather expensive, but will create the dramatic effect you’re looking for. Wall murals and decals are another option. These depict various personalities, scenes, themes and more.
When it comes to wallpaper, there’s something for everyone. If it’s time to redo a room in your home, don’t overlook the value of wallpaper. Even if you use it just on the wall above your fireplace or on the backside of your bookshelves, it will add interest to the room.

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