Wallpaper

Wallpaper is a product made of paper, fabric or vinyl which is printed in various graphic patterns and applied to walls for decorative purposes only in residential or commercial settings. There is a difference in the weight, serviceability and quality specifications for residential and commercial applications. The latter being more stringent and must past the Chemical Fabrics and Film Association tests.

Typically, there are four printing techniques for wallpaper which affects the cost. These are surface printing which is the oldest technique still being used today and is best suited for multi-colours, floral patterns and classic document design. Then there is the gravure printing method which produces a recessed image which copy the look of real art and is generally used for borders. Silk screen printing is also known as hand screening where stencils are used to transfer the design to the paper. Rotary printing has the ability to print vibrant opaque colours with crisp edges and is the most expensive printing technique.

A wall paper installation can last from five to 15 years depending on the quality of the wallpaper, the installation techniques and maintenance. Some wallpapers are costly, more so than paint but you get more longevity with wallpaper.

When purchasing wallpaper especially if there is a pattern, look for the pattern match or the pattern repeat which gives the distance from one point of the motif to the same point either before or after the following motif. Depending on this distance, 24 inches or more, you will need to purchase about 15%-20% extra material instead of the standard 10% extra.

In addition to adding decorative flare, wallpaper can also cover up flaws like cracks and imperfect surfaces because you can create visual tricks with patterns and textures. Because there are thousands of designs from traditional to modern patterns you should be able to find one that is beautiful and also hide unsightly imperfections.

Wallpaper can bring bold design, colour, texture or simpler elements into the space and can be used in several ways to add interest or set the mood.

• The most obvious use for wallpaper is to create a focal point by adding it to one wall in the room.

• Hang lengths of wallpaper in framed panels instead of plastering it from floor to ceiling on every wall.

• Why not put it on the ceiling? Create the element of surprise with an interesting pattern.

• You can also frame the wall paper like art.

• Set the scene for the room by using an oversized city scape or a landscape print.

• What about lining the back of a cabinet or a bookshelf to highlight the items on the shelves.

• Add wallpaper to a closet door to add fun, texture and pattern to a room.

• Do you feel creative? Then you can try using two complimentary wallpaper patterns.

Remember the design principles here and let one pattern dominate.

• Not confident. Then removable wallpaper is the thing for you.

• Add a bit of ambience with LED wallpaper first.