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Wallpaper ... It's Not What It Used To Be

By Elizabeth Crudup

For many, the very mention of the word “wallpaper” invokes visions of gaudy flowers in outdated colors. Oh, and don’t forget the horror stories you’ve heard of installation and removal. Well, pull out your mental trash bags and throw away those notions. The wallpaper sold now is a far superior product than its predecessor. There is a right way and a wrong way to do things. Unfortunately for wallpaper, more often than not things have been done the wrong way. The results have been scary, to say the least, causing the total omission of a product that could truly be that ambience-enhancing “oomph” for which your décor has been calling. To make your wallpaper experience a happy one, here are a few simple rules of thumb that must be followed.

Always prime your walls with pre-wall covering primer. This point cannot be over-stressed, so I will say it again … always prime your walls with pre-wall covering primer. If it does not say “pre-wall covering primer” on the can, then it is not pre-wall covering primer in the can. Accept no substitutes. Primer comes in both white and clear, and unless you are very dexterous with a paintbrush and roller, I recommend using the clear. Keep in mind that primer is not paint; it does not have to be perfectly applied. If you prefer, you may choose to have a wallpaper installer do this for you. 

This brings to mind the next point. Consider having your wallpaper professionally installed. A professional installer is one whose bread and butter depends on him or her doing an excellent job of installing your wallpaper. If you already have paper on your wall that you would like removed, do not score your walls. Attend a wallpaper removal class in a specialty store (not a hardware store). Or better yet, get a free estimate from a wallpaper professional.

The final rule I suggest is shop for paper in a wallpaper store. The big home improvement stores are certainly okay, but if you really want to optimize your choices and make an informed decision, wallpaper specialty stores are the way to go. Look for tips on choosing wallpaper in the next issue.

Elizabeth Crudup, along with her partner Lisa Shapiro, own Wallpaper & Beyond in Raleigh. They may be reached at 878-0610 or via their website at www.wallpaperandbeyond.com.