How To Decorate A Big Blank Wallpaper

By | September 15, 2023

How To Decorate a Big Blank Wall With Wallpaper

A large, blank wall can present both a challenge and an opportunity in interior design. While it can feel intimidating to fill such a vast space, it also provides a considerable canvas for expressing personal style and enhancing the overall aesthetic of a room. Wallpaper offers a versatile and impactful solution for transforming a large, blank wall from a void into a focal point. When approaching this decorating task, careful consideration of scale, pattern, color, and application techniques is crucial for achieving the desired result.

Key Considerations Before You Start: Planning and Preparation

Prior to applying any wallpaper, a thorough assessment of the wall and the surrounding environment is necessary. This preliminary step ensures a smooth application process and prevents potential problems later on. Specifically, assessing the wall's dimensions, surface condition, and the room's overall aesthetic is key to making suitable design choices.

Measuring the wall's height and width is paramount for determining the required amount of wallpaper. Always add a few extra inches to both dimensions to account for trimming and pattern matching. Accurate measurements prevent the frustrating scenario of running short on wallpaper mid-project.

The surface condition of the wall significantly affects the wallpaper's adhesion and final appearance. Any imperfections, such as cracks, holes, or uneven textures, must be addressed before application. Fill small holes with spackle, sand rough patches smooth, and apply a primer to create a clean, even surface. This preparation enhances the wallpaper's grip and prevents imperfections from telegraphing through the material.

Understanding the surrounding room's aesthetic is essential for selecting a wallpaper that complements the existing décor. Consider the color palette, furniture style, and overall mood of the room. A wallpaper that clashes with the existing elements will detract from the room's harmony. If the room is already heavily patterned, a more subtle wallpaper design may be preferable. Conversely, if the room is relatively neutral, a bold wallpaper pattern can add visual interest and personality.

Selecting the Right Wallpaper: Pattern, Texture and Color

The choice of wallpaper pattern, texture, and color significantly impacts the room's atmosphere. Understanding the effects of different design elements is crucial for creating the desired visual impact. Pattern scale, texture, and color saturation all contribute to the overall perception of the space.

Large-scale patterns are well-suited for large walls, as they prevent the design from feeling lost or repetitive. A large floral print, geometric design, or abstract motif can create a bold statement and visually fill the space. However, be mindful of the room's size. If the room is small, a large-scale pattern might overwhelm the space. In such cases, consider a medium-scale pattern or a smaller repeat.

Texture adds depth and interest to a wall, creating a tactile dimension that paint cannot replicate. Textured wallpapers can mimic the look of natural materials like brick, wood, or fabric. These textural effects can add warmth and visual richness to a room. Embossed wallpapers offer a subtle raised pattern, while grasscloth wallpapers provide a natural, organic feel. Consider the room's function when selecting a texture. For example, a heavily textured wallpaper may not be ideal for a high-traffic area where it might be easily damaged.

Color profoundly affects the mood and perception of a room. Light colors tend to make a room feel larger and brighter, while dark colors can create a more intimate and cozy atmosphere. Consider the room's natural lighting when selecting a color. A dark room may benefit from a light-colored wallpaper to enhance brightness, while a room with ample natural light can handle bolder, darker hues. Additionally, consider the psychological effects of different colors. For example, blue is often associated with calmness, while red is associated with energy and excitement. Choose colors that align with the desired mood and atmosphere of the room.

Application Techniques and Considerations

Proper wallpaper application is crucial for a professional and long-lasting result. This involves accurate cutting, precise matching of patterns, and meticulous attention to detail. The type of adhesive used and the technique for smoothing the wallpaper are equally vital for preventing bubbles, wrinkles, and other imperfections.

Cutting the wallpaper to the correct size is a fundamental step. Using the wall measurements obtained earlier, cut the wallpaper panels, adding a few extra inches at the top and bottom for trimming. When working with patterned wallpaper, carefully align the pattern before cutting each panel to ensure a seamless match. Lay the wallpaper on a clean, flat surface and use a sharp utility knife or wallpaper cutter to make precise cuts. Consider using a cutting guide to maintain straight lines and prevent errors.

Matching the pattern correctly is essential for creating a visually cohesive wall. Before applying the adhesive, dry-fit the wallpaper panels on the wall to ensure the pattern aligns properly. Pay close attention to the edges of each panel and adjust as needed. Some wallpapers have a "straight match," where the pattern repeats horizontally, while others have a "drop match," where the pattern repeats diagonally. Understanding the type of match is crucial for accurate alignment. Use a plumb bob or level to ensure the first panel is perfectly vertical, as this will serve as the foundation for all subsequent panels.

Applying the adhesive evenly and smoothing the wallpaper carefully are critical for preventing bubbles and wrinkles. Use a wallpaper paste brush or roller to apply the adhesive to the back of the wallpaper panel, ensuring even coverage. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the type of adhesive to use and the recommended soak time. Fold the pasted wallpaper panel onto itself, paste-side to paste-side, to allow the adhesive to soak into the paper. This process, known as "booking," helps to prevent the wallpaper from drying out too quickly. After the recommended soak time, unfold the panel and carefully align it with the wall, using the plumb line as a guide. Use a wallpaper smoothing tool to smooth the wallpaper onto the wall, working from the center outwards. This removes any air bubbles and ensures the wallpaper adheres firmly to the surface. Overlap seams slightly for a tighter bond and trim any excess wallpaper at the top and bottom with a sharp utility knife.

Consider hiring a professional wallpaper installer if the project seems overwhelming or if intricate patterns or difficult wall conditions are involved. A professional can ensure a flawless application and prevent costly mistakes. However, with careful planning, preparation, and attention to detail, decorating a large blank wall with wallpaper can be a rewarding and transformative experience.


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