Creative Ways to Use Wallpaper: Hacks, Applications, and Styling Tips for Every Home

Wallpaper has made a serious comeback in the world of interiors and for good reason. Whether you're a renter, homeowner, or design enthusiast, this versatile decor element offers endless ways to transform your space without breaking the bank. From traditional full-wall applications to renter-friendly options and unexpected styling ideas, wallpaper is more than just a backdrop, it’s a design tool.

In this blog, we’ll explore:

• How to apply wall coverings(self-application tips included!)

• Smart hacks for renters

• Creative ways to use and display it like art

• How to make it last longer

• Best adhesives for different needs

• Styling inspiration for every room

Let’s dive into the world of wallpaper and all the ways it can elevate your home.

Gone are the days of intimidating floral prints and impossible-to-remove glue. Today’s wallpaper is chic, removable, and made for all kinds of surfaces and styles. It’s perfect for:

• Creating accent walls

• Highlighting architectural niches

• Refreshing furniture

• Framing like art

• Customizing rental spaces
  
  No longer just a wall-covering, it is now an expression of personal style. 

Whether peel-and-stick or traditional paste, applying wallpaper can be a satisfying DIY weekend project. Here's a simple guide to self-applying it:

1. Prep the Wall

• Clean the surface thoroughly

• Fill any holes or cracks

• Use a level to draw vertical guide lines

2. Measure and Cut

• Always cut 2–3 inches extra on both ends

• Match up patterns if using printed wallpaper

3. Apply with Care

• For peel-and-stick: peel off backing as you press

• For pasted wallpaper: apply adhesive to the back or wall as instructed

4. Smooth It Out

• Use a smoothing tool or credit card to press out air bubbles

• Trim the excess with a utility knife

Tip: Always start from the middle of the wall and work outward for better alignment. 

Love the look of wallpaper , but stuck in a rental? These hacks let you decorate without risking your security deposit.

Peel-and-Stick Options

• Easily removable and damage-free

• Available in trendy prints, metallics, textures, and even faux tile

Frame It Like Art

• Use large samples of it in gallery-style frames

• Mix different patterns for a statement wall

Temporary Panels

• Adhere it onto foam boards or MDF panels

• Lean against the wall or mount with Command strips

Use on Furniture

• Apply to drawer fronts, table tops, or cabinet panels for a custom look

• Wrap around shelves for a peek-a-boo effect

Renter bonus: When you move, just peel and pack.

Thinking beyond the obvious? There are so many innovative ways to incorporate wallpaper into your space.

Framed Like Art

• Choose one or more bold patterns

• Use oversized frames to create large-scale art

Ceilings Covered

• Create drama by wallpapering the fifth wall

• Great for bedrooms, powder rooms, or reading nooks

Stair Risers

• Add a pop of color or texture to plain staircases

• Use different patterns for a playful look

Inside Bookshelves or Cabinets

• Line the interior backs for an unexpected splash

• Great for open shelving units

It doesn’t just belong on the wall- it can elevate ceilings, stairs, furniture, and more. 

Make Wallpaper Last Longer: Care & Maintenance Tips

A little maintenance goes a long way. To keep your wall coverings looking fresh for years:

• Dust regularly with a dry microfiber cloth

• Spot-clean with a damp sponge and mild soap

• Avoid harsh chemicals or scrubbing

• Use a dehumidifier in high-moisture areas

• Protect edges with clear wallpaper seam adhesive

Protecting your wallpaper = protecting your investment. 

Not all wallpapers or walls, are created equal. Choosing the right adhesive ensures a longer-lasting finish and less peeling.

Peel-and-Stick 

• Built-in adhesive, best for rentals and temporary looks

• Works well on smooth, primed walls

Pre-Pasted 

• Activated with water

• Good for low-traffic areas

Paste-the-Wall 

• Requires separate adhesive

• Easier for large-scale projects and repositioning

Heavy-Duty Paste

• Best for textured or fabric wallpapers

• Choose mildew-resistant glue for bathrooms

Always match your adhesive to your material type and room conditions. 

Even if you're not a DIY pro, self-applying wallpaper can be smooth sailing with these extra tips:

• Work with a friend for larger walls

• Use a sponge to smooth, not stretch

• Match the pattern carefully before committing to position

• Cut around switches and sockets after applying the sheet

• Use painter’s tape to temporarily hold edges while adjusting

Need ideas on where to use wallpaper? Here’s how different rooms can shine with a touch of print:

Living Room

• Accent wall behind the sofa

• Framed wallpaper above a console or fireplace

Bedroom

• Bold style headboard wall

• Romantic floral or toile ceiling detail

Bathroom

• Powder room statement wall

• Waterproof vinyl wallpaper behind the sink

Kitchen

• Backsplash mimicry using vinyl materials

• Line open shelves with pattern

From luxurious textures to playful prints, it  offers one of the most versatile, customizable, and impactful ways to update your space. Whether you're sticking it up temporarily or making a long-term style statement, it opens the door to creativity and charm like no other decor element.

So go ahead- frame it, paste it, peel it, or panel it, but don’t underestimate the power of wallpaper .