In the world of interior design, the transformative power of wallpaper has been proven time and time again. Among the myriad options available, peel and stick faux grass cloth wallpaper has emerged as a beautiful choice for those seeking to add texture and sophistication to their living spaces. In an effort to give Megan’s home office just that, we looked at using natural materials and decided to use a faux grass cloth as an affordable option that is peel and stick since this is our first wallpaper installation project.
In this post we will go through a step by step process of how we installed the wallpaper and what tools you will need to achieve the same look.
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Why Faux Grass Cloth?
Faux grass cloth wallpaper is a unique solution that offers the timeless appeal of natural grass cloth without the maintenance and fragility associated with the real traditional wallpaper. The natural texture look can make a room feel more finished and comfortable and can be applied as just an accent wall or be installed in an entire room. This synthetic alternative instead of actual natural fibers provides a durable and cost-effective solution and would be a great choice for those looking to infuse their homes with the charm and warmth of traditional grass cloth.
We have seen grasscloth used in many spaces and can easily be used in a dining room, living room, powder room, bedroom or even a laundry room! We have also seen it used to line the back of bookshelves. It is needless to say that grass cloth, faux or not, is extremely versatile and can be used in many spaces and comes in a variety of colors.
We chose to use it for Megan’s home office which is a small space attached to our primary bedroom and we thought it would be an easy way to add some texture and dimension to the space. We had a few different samples to choose from but ultimately decided on the Gray Crossweave pattern from WallPops because we love the look of gray grasscloth wallpaper and it’s neutral tones. However, the biggest reason we chose it is because it looked so close to the real thing. We also first thought about using the faux grasscloth peel and stick wallpaper on a single wall but then decided to install it around the entire interior room to make the room feel more cozy. It has become the perfect backdrop and was the right choice.
Installing Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Before embarking on your wallpaper installation journey, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools and familiarize yourself with best practices.
Tools you’ll need:
Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful wallpaper installation.
Utility Knife and Scissors: Essential for cutting the wallpaper to the correct size and also to trim and edge the wallpaper.
Laser Level: Ensure each panel of wallpaper is straight and aligned by shining the laser level on the wall..
Smoothing Tool: Smooth out air bubbles and wrinkles for a flawless finish.
Ladder: Because very few people are tall enough to reach the ceiling to start a new panel – haha!
Trash Bag: Keep nearby to put all the backing and scraps into and maintain a clean(er) workspace.
Installation Steps:
Step 1: Prep Your Canvas – The Wall
Before you unleash your faux grass cloth masterpiece, make sure your walls are ready to rock. Give it a good once-over, patch up any holes or cracks, and sand down any rough spots. Also wipe down any dust, dirt or cobwebs with a microfiber cloth. A smooth canvas is key to a flawless finish. We also recommend your wall color be a similar color to the wallpaper so seams don’t stand out.
Last but not least, as a safety precaution, cut power to outlets so you don’t electrocute yourself with the razor knife trimming the wallpaper.
Step 2: Measure Twice, Cut Once
Time to get up close and personal with that measuring tape. Measure the height of your wall and cut your wallpaper accordingly. Pro tip: leave a little extra at the top and bottom for some wiggle room – we’re aiming for perfection here.
Step 3: Peel and Stick Magic
Your first panel should begin 20 inches away from the corner you are starting at. Your first panel, depending on the width, will most overlap the corner slightly.
Start at the top and peel off a small section of the backing, just enough to get things rolling but we think 9-12inches is best. Align the top of your wallpaper with the guidelines you marked, and slowly peel away the backing while smoothing the paper onto the wall. Easy does it!
- PRO TIP: Save any extra wallpaper scraps you may have and use it to wallpaper your switch out outlet covers!
Step 4: Smooth Operator
Now, grab that smoothing tool – your new BFF for this project. Work your way down the panel, smoothing out air bubbles and wrinkles as you go. We found it worked best to go in a diagonal motion instead of straight up and down or side to side.
Step 5: Trim and Tidy Up
Once your first panel is in place and looking sharp, it’s time to trim the excess at the top and bottom. The utility knife or scissors will come in handy here. Precision is the name of the game, so take your time and make those cuts count. We found it helpful to use your smoothing tool to hold down the edges and use it as a guide to cut straight lines on the edges.
Step 6: Repeat and Rock On
Keep the momentum going! Repeat the process with the next panel, and if you have a pattern, making sure it aligns seamlessly. Use that laser level to mark guidelines for a straight-up stunning result. It’s like putting together a puzzle, but way more satisfying. Well, just as satisfying, we really like puzzles.
Step 7: Admire Your Handiwork
Stand back and admire your newly adorned wall. Revel in the fact that you just leveled up your interior design game without breaking a sweat. Faux grass cloth has never looked so good!
- PRO TIP: Can this be done by one person, yes, but do we highly recommend having two sets of hands available to tackle this project, yes! Especially for the third step. It is really difficult to peel the backing off of the wallpaper
Pros of Artificial Grass Cloth:
So why should you consider faux grasscloth wallpaper as an option for your walls? Here are a few that come to mind:
Durability: Engineered with longevity in mind, this synthetic alternative stands up to the challenges of daily life with impressive resilience. Its durability makes it an ideal option for high-traffic areas where wear and tear are inevitable (hello small children). Unlike its natural counterpart, faux grasscloth won’t easily succumb to stains, scratches, or fading from direct sunlight, ensuring that your walls stay looking fresh and vibrant for the long haul. This makes it a practical and low-maintenance solution for those who crave both style and substance in their interior design choices.
Easy Maintenance: Artificial grasscloth doesn’t demand a delicate touch. Cleaning is a cinch – a gentle wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep your walls looking as vibrant as the day you installed them. Say goodbye to the worries of stains or discoloration; this low-maintenance marvel ensures that your walls remain effortlessly chic with minimal effort on your part. Faux grass cloth allows you to revel in the joy of easy upkeep, making it a stress-free and enduring addition to your home.
Cost-Effective: Faux grasscloth peel and stick wallpaper proves to be a savvy investment for the budget-conscious decorator. Its super cost-effectiveness is a game-changer, offering the luxurious look of natural grasscloth without the hefty price tag (one roll of grasscloth wallpaper can be expensive). Synthetic materials make this wallpaper more affordable than its genuine counterpart, allowing you to achieve a high-end, textured aesthetic without draining your wallet. The upfront savings are just the beginning – add in the easy installation process that can be done without professional help, and you’ve got a double win.
Versatility: Whether you’re aiming for a rustic, farmhouse charm, a tropical oasis, or a sleek modern vibe, faux grasscloth adapts with ease. Its ability to play well with various design styles makes it a dynamic choice, ensuring that you can reinvent your space to reflect your evolving tastes. It isn’t bound by the limitations of its natural counterpart, offering a diverse range of patterns and colors to suit any aesthetic preference. From accent walls and focal points to entire rooms (dining room, living room, office, etc.) this wallpaper is a chameleon, proving that the versatility of peel and stick faux grasscloth is a canvas waiting for your creativity to unfold.
All this to say, natural grasscloth wallpaper could still be a good choice for you and here is why. It offers several advantages over artificial grasscloth, with one significant advantage being the authentic and natural texture that real grass cloth provides, lending a tactile and visually appealing element to interior spaces. Unlike artificial alternatives, real grass cloth has a very unique, organic look with subtle color variation and texture because of the natural fibres adding depth and character to walls. Additionally, real grass cloth can often be considered more environmentally friendly, as it is made from sustainable, renewable materials. Furthermore, real grass cloth wallpapers are known for their longevity and durability, ensuring that they can withstand the test of time and maintain their aesthetic appeal over the years which is one of the reasons it is such a traditional wallpaper! Overall, interior designers and purists love choosing real grass cloth wallpaper can bring an authentic, timeless charm to interior design, making it a favored option for those seeking a high-quality and visually rich wall covering. If this is the route you go, we recommend hiring a professional paper hanger to install the panels of grasscloth instead of doing it yourself.
Peel and stick faux grass cloth wallpaper is a versatile and stylish choice for homeowners and decorators alike. From its realistic textures to the ease of installation, synthetic wallpapers offer can offer the perfect balance of aesthetics and practicality. Whether you choose artificial or go with natural gorgeous grasscloth, your space will feel elevated with the timeless wallpaper and enjoy a classic, sophisticated look that stands the test of time.
