Have you ever found yourself staring at a blank wall, itching to give it some personality? Well, you're in for a treat. Today, we're diving deep into the wonderful world of wallpaper. These days, wallpaper comes in a veritable smorgasbord of styles, textures, and designs that can transform any space from drab to fab.

With so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for your space? Don't worry; we're going to break down the main types of wallpaper, exploring their quirks, perks, and best uses. By the end of this post, you'll be a wallpaper wizard, ready to tackle any room with confidence.

Non-woven Wallpaper

First up, we have non-woven wallpaper - the cool, modern option that's taking the design world by storm. Made from a mix of natural and synthetic fibres, this stuff is like the superhero of wallpapers. It's strong, versatile, and oh-so-easy to work with.

Why you'll love it:

• It's a breeze to hang and remove (hello, renters!)
• Breathable material keeps mould at bay, perfect for those slightly damp corners
• Doesn't shrink or expand, so it stays put like a well-behaved child
• Resists tears, making it ideal for homes with pets or little ones

Perfect for: DIY newbies, rental homes, or anyone who likes to frequently switch up their décor. It's particularly great for those tricky areas like hallways or kids' rooms where you need something durable but still stylish.

Pro tip: No need to soak this paper - just paste the wall and go! This 'paste the wall' technique means less mess and faster application. Plus, if you make a mistake, you can easily reposition the paper without damaging it. Win-win!

Vinyl Wallpaper

Next, meet vinyl wallpaper - the durability champion. With its plastic coating, this wallpaper can take a beating and still look fabulous. It's like the James Bond of wall coverings - smooth, sophisticated, and able to withstand whatever life throws at it.

Why you'll love it:

 

• Wipes clean like a dream - perfect for those inevitable spills and marks
• Laughs in the face of moisture and stains so perfect for high moisture rooms
• Lasts longer (we're talking years here!)
• Comes in a wide range of designs, from subtle textures to bold patterns

Perfect for: High-traffic areas, kitchens, bathrooms, or anywhere prone to spills and splashes. It's also great for commercial spaces or rental properties where durability is key.

Pro tip: Consider using lining paper first if your walls are less than perfect. Also, be aware that while vinyl is great at resisting moisture, it doesn't let walls 'breathe' as much as other options, so ensure your room is well-ventilated to prevent any moisture build-up behind the paper.

Paper Wallpaper

Ah, good old paper wallpaper. It's been around forever, and for good reason. This eco-friendly option is like the vinyl record of wall coverings - a timeless classic that never goes out of style. It's the wallpaper your grandparents probably used, but don't let that put you off - modern designs have come a long way.

You might be wondering how paper wallpaper differs from its modern cousin, non-woven wallpaper.

While paper wallpaper is made from traditional paper, often with a thin vinyl coating, non-woven wallpaper is a blend of natural and synthetic fibres. This difference in composition leads to some key distinctions. Paper wallpaper is generally less durable and more prone to tearing, but it allows walls to 'breathe' more easily. It's typically less expensive, but can be trickier to hang as it requires soaking before application and can shrink or expand with humidity changes.

Non-woven wallpaper, on the other hand, is more durable and dimensionally stable. It's easier to hang using the 'paste-the-wall' technique and simpler to remove when you fancy a change.

However, it's usually pricier and slightly less breathable than its paper counterpart. Each type has its own charm and suits different needs, so consider your priorities when making your choice.

Why you'll love it:

• Lets your walls breathe, helping to regulate room humidity
• Often cheaper than its fancy cousins, so you can splash out on that designer lamp instead
• Can be recycled when you're ready for a change
• Offers a huge variety of designs, from traditional to contemporary
• Provides a lovely, matt finish that's perfect for creating a cosy atmosphere

Perfect for: Bedrooms, living rooms, or anywhere you want a traditional vibe. It's particularly good for period properties where you want to maintain an authentic feel.

Pro tip: Handle with care - this can tear easily. Consider using a pre-mixed paste for easier application, and don't oversaturate the paper when hanging. Also, be prepared for a bit of shrinkage as the paper dries - leave a little extra at the edges and trim once it's fully dry.

Textile Wallpaper

Feeling fancy? Textile wallpaper is here to add some serious class to your space. Made from natural or synthetic fibres, it's like a couture gown for your walls. Think silk, linen, or even velvet - this is wallpaper that begs to be touched.

Why you'll love it:

• Adds warmth and texture like nobody's business
• Absorbs sound (goodbye, echo!) making rooms feel cosier
• Hides wall imperfections like a pro
• Creates a truly luxurious feel that paint just can't match
• Often hand-made, adding an artisanal touch to your décor

Perfect for: Formal living rooms, master bedrooms, or anywhere you want to impress. It's particularly stunning in period properties or as a feature wall in modern spaces.

Pro tip: This one's tricky to hang - might be worth calling in the experts! The delicate nature of textile wallpaper means it can be easily damaged during hanging, and patterns can be trickier to match. Also, be prepared for a heftier price tag.

Grasscloth Wallpaper

Bring the outdoors in with grasscloth wallpaper. Made from natural fibres like jute, sisal, or sea grass, each roll is as unique as a snowflake. It's perfect for those who want to add a touch of nature to their interiors without going full jungle theme.

Why you'll love it:

 

• Adds organic texture and warmth to any room
• Environmentally friendly - a great choice for eco-conscious decorators
• Creates a one-of-a-kind look (no two rolls are exactly alike)
• Offers excellent sound absorption properties
• Ages beautifully, developing a lovely patina over time

Perfect for: Accent walls, home offices, or anywhere you want to create a zen vibe. It's particularly effective in rooms where you want to create a calm, natural atmosphere.

Pro tip: Avoid hanging in humid areas - this paper doesn't play well with moisture. Also, be prepared for visible seams - it's part of the charm of grasscloth, but if you're after a seamless look, this might not be the option for you. Consider using a dark colour in high-traffic areas as it can show wear more easily than other types of wallpaper.

Embossed Wallpaper

Want to add some depth to your décor? Embossed wallpaper is your go-to. With its raised patterns, it's like 3D art for your walls. From subtle textures to bold designs, embossed wallpaper can add interest to even the plainest of rooms.

Why you'll love it:

• Adds interest and depth to flat walls
• Can hide minor wall imperfections - great for older properties
• Some types are paintable for extra customisation
• Creates a tactile surface that begs to be touched
• Available in a wide range of designs, from traditional to ultra-modern

Perfect for: Accent walls, covering up not-so-perfect walls, or creating a focal point. It's particularly effective in rooms that lack architectural features.

Pro tip: Use a heavy-duty adhesive to keep those raised patterns in place. When painting embossed wallpaper, use a roller with a long nap to ensure you get paint into all the nooks and crannies. And remember, lighting can really enhance the 3D effect - consider using wall lights or lamps to create interesting shadows.

Flocked Wallpaper

Last but not least, we have flocked wallpaper. Modern flocked wallpaper offers all the texture and luxury of the original, but with contemporary designs that bring it firmly into the 21st century.

Why you'll love it:

• Adds a touch of luxury to any room
• Great for sound absorption - perfect for media rooms or bedrooms
• Creates a striking focal point
• Offers a tactile surface that's irresistible to touch
• Available in a range of designs, from traditional damasks to modern geometrics

Perfect for: Formal dining rooms, bedrooms, or anywhere you want to add a touch of opulence. It's particularly effective when used on a feature wall or in smaller spaces where you want to create impact.

Pro tip: Handle with care to avoid crushing that beautiful flocked pattern. Use a very soft brush or cloth when cleaning to avoid damaging the raised pattern. And be aware that flocked wallpaper can be a dust magnet - regular gentle vacuuming with a soft brush attachment can help keep it looking its best.

So there you have your comprehensive crash course in wallpaper types.

Remember, choosing wallpaper is like picking out an outfit for your room. Consider the function of the space, your DIY skills, and your personal style.

Whether you're a minimalist, a maximalist, or somewhere in between, there's a wallpaper out there with your name on it.

Experiment, be bold, and most importantly, have fun with it. And, if you end up with paper paste in your hair and patterns swimming before your eyes, just remember - it's all part of the grand adventure of home decorating.