Wallpapers

Wallpaper is not in the least outdated—in fact, it’s making a fashionable comeback and it’s fast becoming a key element in interior decorating. Today, wallpaper is brilliant! The choices are vast and the decorating possibilities immense. A metallic look, imitation wood grain, stone, brick, sober motifs or completely contemporary… Placed horizontally or vertically… They’re used to breath new life into cupboard doors, create a headboard, outline windows, a fireplace or an alcove, decorate a ceiling…

Next time, take a stroll through the wallpaper section of the store!

Simply click on the picture for a closer look!
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Washable and non-washable wallpapers
How much should you buy
Wallpapers with printed outer surfaces
Vinyl papers
Textured papers
Flocked papers
Textured and embossed papers
Metallic papers
Textile papers
Primer papers
Decorative decals
New looks for old patterns
Wallpaper as a complement to a decor
Learn to play with wallpaper

Washable and non-washable wallpapers

Standard wallpaper is not washable. However, stains can be removed using a damp cloth, but no more than damp. You also will need to be more careful not to leave glue residue when you hang it.

So called washable papers are a great deal more resistant to water and stains. They are covered with a transparent protective coating. They will cope with a mild detergent, but remain sensitive to scrubbing and strong detergents. They are, however, difficult to remove because of their protective coating which does not let water through to the underlying layers. To remove it, you need to perforate it or scratch through it before beginning the actual stripping.

How much should you buy

When purchasing wallpaper, measure the entire surface you intend to cover and add an extra 15 to 20% in order to make up for waste.

We recommend you purchase more rolls rather than fewer in order to ensure your paper comes from the same production lot. Otherwise, colours could vary slightly from one lot to the next.

Wallpapers with printed outer surfaces

Wallpapers with printed outer surfaces are available in a variety of patterns, textures and quality. They are usually easy to hang, except for those with matching patterns which require that you cut every strip to ensure a perfect match. This type of paper is the most popular.

Paper quality depends on the number of layers of paper used in the manufacturing process. Cheaper wall paper is usually thinner and fragile. It is more difficult to hang and tends to get out of shape more quickly. On the other hand, it is easier to remove, because it is more permeable.

Vinyl papers

Vinyl papers which include a plastic coating are even more resistant and washable. Vinyl papers are made of a printed plastic-coated layer glued to standard paper and are available in smooth embossed textures. Some pre-pasted varieties need only be soaked in a tray before hanging. Contrary to washable paper, vinyl paper is easy to remove. You need only peel the plastic coating before applying warm water or, in rare cases, using a steam machine to remove the base layer. Vinyl paper is recommended for bathrooms, kitchens, playrooms, hallways and stairways.

Textured papers

Textured papers are leading the current trend. Technology has enabled manufacturers to develop wall coverings that are a perfect imitation of wood, stone, brick, leather, straw and cork—there’s even a cork paper infused with metallic copper that’s currently all the rage. Textured wallpapers create illusions by adding volume to patterns or surfaces. These papers give a room personality and look so authentic that they’re easily mistaken for the real thing.

Flocked papers

Flocked papers, which look like velvet, are making a big comeback. They give a sophisticated new look to any lacklustre decor and add warmth to a room. They are hard to hang because their finish is allergic to glue. Despite a finish some consider fragile, they are known to be long-lasting.

Textured and embossed papers

Textured and embossed papers are as popular as ever. Paintable with either oil or latex, these papers work miracles on damaged walls by hiding imperfections. Embossed designs are even more striking when coated with metallic paint that catches the light. Vinyl "painting" papers feature different types of embossing that lend themselves to custom washable finishes. However, this type of paper can be fragile, and will tear if furniture or other objects rub against it. Luckily, damaged spots can be repaired easily, especially if you make sure to keep a few leftover pieces.

Metallic papers

On the subject of metallics, there exists a wide variety of metallic papers that will add a touch of elegance to any interior. Both bold dazzles or subtle shimmers make stylish statements and, according to the chosen design (geometric patterns or paisley motifs, for instance), they adapt easily to different decor styles, from art deco to contemporary. However, they need to hang over a smooth, completely faultless surface. To remove them, you need to proceed in two steps (dry and wet) as you would for vinyl paper.

Textile papers

Textile paper in natural finishes such as jute, silk, raffia, wool or linen is expensive and can only be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or a special shampoo. It is also tricky to hang.

Primer papers

Primer papers, like primer paint, are used as a base to cover rough surfaces before hanging decorative wallpaper. Only very thin papers or lesser quality papers require "primer" papers. Good quality papers usually do not require them.

Decorative decals

Also available in the wallpaper department are decorative wall stickers, or decals, which are a trendy and versatile way to liven up a plain wall or piece of furniture. These stickers can easily be removed or repositioned and are simple to clean with a damp cloth. They come in an attractive variety of designs: fauna or flora, urban themes, words, decorative patterns, Chinese calligraphy and more. With such a wide choice, you can personalize your walls to suit your every whim!

New looks for old patterns

From tiny, busy patterns to large or oversized motifs, wallpaper designs come in all shapes and sizes. Botanical patterns, redesigned to cater to modern decorating tastes, bring the outdoors inside. If you’re feeling nostalgic for the ‘60s or ‘70s, give your room a retro feel with geometric or psychedelic patterns. Panoramic landscapes are also back: adorn a single wall with a lush forest, windswept seashore or burning desert and voila, the entire room will be transformed.

Wallpaper is also well suited to kids’ bedrooms, as it allows them to personalize their own space with themes based on their favourite TV characters, sports or hobbies.

In fact, the only products that seem to be losing popularity are borders. With so many new coloured and textured papers on the market, people are going for wallpaper in a big way. This new-found confidence is rewarded by a stylish, elegant look.

Wallpaper as a complement to a decor

Wallpaper can create illusions (lowering or raising ceilings) or highlight decorating details. But you must be careful not to let it overpower other aspects of your decorating plan or other items you might want to see stand out in a room.

In the bathroom, vinyl paper will resist the attacks of humidity. Expanded vinyl is a surprising stand-in for ceramic tiling.

Imitation mouldings or finely-worked plaster on walls, frames or ceilings are also possible with embossed wallpapers. They lend charisma and presence to a room while allowing you to juggle styles to suit yourself. Likewise, half-walls covered in embossed paper that imitates sculpted wood or other finishes.

Learn to play with wallpaper

Before choosing your wallpaper, take a good look at the room you want to decorate. If it’s small, go for subtle patterns rather than large, overpowering florals. Similarly, large motifs won’t work if you must negotiate too many obstacles like furniture or doors. Cutting the paper will break the pattern and spoil the overall effect.

Because it reflects light metallic wallpaper is, in fact, a great choice for small spaces. For rooms with low ceilings, choose papers with vertical stripes or wood panelling effects to add height to the walls. Hung horizontally, the same stripes will create the illusion of making a small room appear larger.

And don’t forget the fifth wall—the ceiling. Cover it with textured, embossed paper and paint it Victorian-style, or make a bold statement with ultra-fashionable geometric prints.
Fallen in love with a really special paper but can’t afford to cover the whole wall? Use a piece on a small area. Framing it will create a custom-made picture. Are your melamine cupboard doors looking tired? Give them a new lease on life by pasting the wallpaper you like in the centre and framing it with a smart moulding. Wallpaper can also be used to cover headboards (the higher the board the better, if the design is to be appreciated to the full).
Whatever your project, today’s wallpaper is so versatile you can really let your imagination run wild.

The pictures shown in this project are for inspirational purposes. Therefore, it is possible that certain products may not be sold at RONA.
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