Pattern scale and repeat
Large motifs read best where you can step back from them; small patterns can look like texture from across the room. The repeat type (straight, drop or random match) affects the layout and how much paper a wall uses.
Wallpaper guide
Choosing wallpaper for your room
Pattern, scale, material and the wall itself all affect how a wallpaper looks once it's up. A few practical points make the choice easier.
Four things to consider
Choose the pattern with the whole wall in mind.
A sample in your hand is only part of the story. Here's what changes once the paper covers a full wall.
Room, light and use
North light, warm lamps and afternoon sun all change how a color reads. Busy spaces like hallways and kitchens may call for a more durable, wipeable material.
Material and paste
Traditional papers, non-woven, vinyl, grasscloth and peel-and-stick wallcoverings each handle differently and have their own paste or adhesive requirements.
Surface before style
A wall with cracks, glossy paint, heavy texture or old adhesive may need preparation before any wallpaper, especially a self-adhesive one, will sit well.
Accent walls
One wall can be the whole idea.
An accent wall is a good way to try a bold pattern without committing a whole room. Behind a bed, a sofa or a dining table, a mural or a large print gives the space a focal point.
Pick the wall the eye meets first when you walk in, and notice how doors, windows and outlets interrupt it. They affect both the look and the layout.
See wallpaper installationCommon questions
Questions worth asking
Have a sample or a product link?
Mention it when you call or add it to your estimate request. It helps, but it isn't required.
How do I estimate how much wallpaper to buy?
Start with the width and height of each wall, then check the roll size and pattern repeat on the product label. Larger repeats need more allowance for matching. Many manufacturers publish calculators, and if you're unsure, call before you order.
Can wallpaper go over textured walls?
Heavy texture usually shows through and can stop seams from sitting flat, so the wall may need smoothing first. The right answer depends on the texture and on the wallcovering.
Is peel-and-stick a good choice for a bathroom?
Humidity, ventilation and the product's own specifications matter. Some self-adhesive products aren't meant for damp rooms, so check the manufacturer's guidance first.
Next step
Found a pattern you love?
Tell us about the room it's meant for, and we'll talk through the next step.