From Drab to Fab: How to Use Custom Wallpaper to Upcycle Old Furniture

It has never been easier to upcycle old furniture into trendy decor statements. Instead of removing old dressers, cabinets or tables, a touch of creativity with wallpaper can restore them to new life. Upcycling using wallpaper is an affordable and eco-friendly way to redesign your home decor and personalize your space. It can transform a vintage nightstand, an old bookshelf or a plain coffee table into a piece of art you won't find anywhere else.

Why Is Wallpaper Perfect for Upcycling?

Wallpaper is no longer confined to walls alone. With its adaptability, a single roll can add color, texture and style to nearly any surface. It adheres well to wood, laminate and even metal, so it can cover furniture and offer a complete makeover. The good news? You don't have to be a professional to produce dramatic results. Even beginners can restore the furniture to its original glory with patience and imagination.

Where to Find the Best Custom Wallpaper

A site like Photowall custom wallpaper gives you endless choices if you're looking for high-end designs. From classic florals to modern abstracts, they offer designs to suit any style and decor. From transforming an antique dresser to adding personality to a plain cabinet, their custom prints easily give you a professional-looking finish.

Choosing the Right Wallpaper for Furniture

All wallpapers aren't created equal, so selection counts. Vinyl wallpaper is durable and low-maintenance, great for high-traffic items like dressers and tables. Fabric-backed wallpaper provides an elegant appearance and can add depth to furniture pieces. Peel-and-stick options are flexible, with simple removal and rearranging, so they are perfect for renters or frequent decor changers.

Top Furniture Items to Repurpose with Wallpaper

Not much furniture can be given a new look with wallpaper applications, but some respond better than others. Drawer fronts are a great place to start with a pop of color or a bold print to offer a style update each time they are opened. The bookshelf's back panels appear luxurious and are edited with a printed background. Tabletops can be covered with wallpaper to update a dated surface and protect it from further damage. Cabinet doors with wallpaper add texture and style to otherwise plain surfaces to offer a designer aesthetic.

Application of Wallpaper to Furniture

It is easier than you would imagine to wallpaper furniture. The process begins with surface preparation by cleaning and sanding to ensure a smooth surface. The second process includes measurement and cutting with precision to ensure a snug fit. Traditional wallpaper may require glue, but peel-and-stick wallpaper simplifies the process immensely. Once in place, using a tool or a credit card to press bubbles yields a professional and smooth look. A clear sealer or Mod Podge can cover and protect the surface from scratches and scuffs to promote longevity.

Mix and Match Patterns to Create a Chic Appearance

One of the most exciting aspects of upcycling with wallpaper is the ability to pair and contrast patterns. Bold patterns can be paired with neutral color schemes to create a unified look. Geometric patterns work well in modern spaces and floral patterns add a touch of vintage style. Stripes can stretch a piece of furniture to appear higher or longer. The bold and adventurous can layer several wallpapers on one piece to create a genuine one-of-a-kind piece of art.

The Benefits of Using Wallpaper for Upcycling

Aside from being a cost-effective way to refresh furniture, wallpapering has numerous other advantages. It is a green solution because upcycling prevents old furniture from ending up in landfills. Wallpaper's ability, with infinite choices to suit the style of any home, makes it a favorite among many. Peel-and-stick solutions ensure easy updating and low commitment levels. Wallpapering also protects furniture from scratches, stains and general wear and tear.

Creative DIY Ideas to Repurpose with Wallpaper

Wallpaper offers a world of design options beyond furniture decoration. Add wallpaper to the sides of drawers for a burst of design when opened. Line a cabinet with a strong print to have a splash of color where you least expect it. Cut up wallpaper in geometric designs like hexagons and triangles to have a one-of-a-kind effect. The small touches can have a dramatic impact and make a plain piece a conversation piece.

How to Maintain Wallpapered Furniture

After a piece of furniture has been refinished, maintenance keeps it in new condition—clean surfaces with a mild cleaner and a soft cloth to prevent dirt buildup. Use minimal moisture, especially with paper-based wallpaper, to prevent peeling. A dab of adhesive will secure an edge that starts to peel away. A clear varnish or topcoat on busy floors will defend the wallpaper from day-to-day usage.

Upcycling as a Sustainable Home Trend

Upcycling with wallpaper is part of the new sustainable home decor movement. Instead of buying new, using old furniture reduces waste and promotes conscious consumerism. Placing wallpaper on furniture allows for custom, one-of-a-kind designs not found in stores. Upcycling with wallpaper is a trendy and sustainable choice as people seek to green up their homes.

Last Thoughts

Upcycling wallpaper is an easy and cost-effective way to revamp your space and reduce waste. Whether you're an expert DIYer or just beginning to dabble in home makeover projects, wallpaper provides an easy solution to creating trendy and customized decor. With minimal equipment, creativity and high-quality designs like Photowall's range, turning plain furniture into eye-catching showpieces has never been simpler!