Why wallpapering furniture is the ultimate modern design trend
Have you ever held on to an old piece of furniture - not because it was beautiful, but because it had potential? Maybe it was the rickety dresser that survived three moves or the coffee table you picked up at a flea market "just in case". In the last few months, our community of DIY enthusiasts and customers have started sending incredible photos of these "maybe someday" pieces, transformed into jaw-dropping works of art with nothing more than wallpaper, a bit of creativity, and a lot of heart. A quiet design revolution is taking over the DIY world and honestly, it’s easy to see why!
Viral videos on social media, showing how wallpaper can transform a plain bookshelf into an eye-catching focal point, have sparked a frenzy of projects, putting wallpapered furniture firmly on the design map. Wallpapering furniture also aligns perfectly with the current upcycling ethos (rethink, reuse, and revive), while for Gen X renters it is a game-changer, as a roll of peel-and-stick wallpaper lets them express their style without losing their deposit.
While delighted by this new trend, we also noticed that with the flood of photos came the questions, lots of them! People want to know everything: Can I use wallpaper on IKEA furniture? What’s the best way to cover a coffee table? Will it even stick to glossy surfaces? The enthusiasm is clear, but so is the need for guidance. That’s why we decided to create a series of in-depth articles, answering every question and covering all there is to know about wallpapering furniture!
So, what are the benefits of wallpapering furniture?
If there’s one thing we love about wallpapering furniture, it’s how effortlessly it ticks all the boxes: budget-friendly, sustainable, and endlessly creative.
It allows for budget-friendly furniture makeovers
Buying new pieces or even having old ones refurbished professionally can cost a small fortune. However, with just one roll of wallpaper, you can transform an entire piece for a fraction of the cost. That dated coffee table you were about to throw away? It’s now a bold statement piece. The scratched-up dresser you thought was beyond saving? It provides a chic focal point for your bedroom. Wallpapering furniture is all about high-impact, low-cost design, allowing you to refresh your home without draining your wallet.
It's an eco-friendly way to reduce waste
Wallpapering furniture also lets you reduce waste and embrace the ethos of upcycling. Got leftover scraps from a wallpapering project? Don’t throw them away! Use them for smaller accents, like lining drawers or creating decorative coasters. Wallpapering furniture isn’t just a design solution; it’s a step toward a greener, more resourceful lifestyle.
It gives you the freedom to redesign furniture any way you want
Want to match a piece to your existing décor? Done. Want to try out a daring design you wouldn’t commit to on a whole wall? Furniture is the perfect canvas. Plus, wallpapering gives you the freedom to experiment. If you don’t love it, peel-and-stick options make it easy to start over or try something new.
How to choose the right wallpaper for your furniture
One of the most common questions we hear is “Which wallpaper should I use for my furniture project?”. This is not too surprising, considering all the options out there. From peel-and-stick to traditional models, from smooth finishes to embossed textures, and from matt to glossy, it can feel like there’s a lot to figure out.
Should I use peel-and-stick or traditional wallpaper for wallpapering furniture?
Peel-and-stick wallpaper has become a DIY favourite because it is so easy to use. If you’re wondering whether it can also be used to wallpaper furniture, or if traditional wallpaper might actually work better, you’re not alone.
Both options have their advantages and limitations, and the best choice depends on your furniture, your skill level, and what you’re looking to achieve. Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision and get the best results for your project!
Advantages of peel-and-stick wallpaper
- It’s incredibly easy to apply, making it perfect for beginners. Just peel off the backing and stick it onto your furniture.
- It’s removable and repositionable, a huge benefit for anyone who likes to change things up often.
- It eliminates the need for sticky adhesives, i.e. there will be no mess to clean up.
Downsides of peel-and-stick wallpaper
- It doesn’t adhere as well to glossy, uneven, or textured surfaces, so some prep work is generally required.
- Without proper sealing, it does not hold up well in high-traffic or moisture-prone environments (e.g. coffee tables or bathroom cabinets).
For some people, traditional wallpaper may seem a bit old-school, but it offers some advantages that peel-and-stick simply can’t match.
Advantages of traditional wallpaper
- Its stronger adhesion makes it perfect for tricky surfaces and long-term projects.
- With a vast range of patterns, materials, and premium options, traditional wallpaper offers unmatched variety.
- It can be custom-cut to fit unusual shapes, intricate carvings, or detailed furniture designs.
Downsides of traditional wallpaper on furniture
- It requires additional adhesive, which can make application messier and more time-consuming.
- Removal is far from easy, so it’s not the best choice for temporary projects.
Deciding between the two really depends on your project. If the piece of furniture in question has smooth, flat surfaces, peel-and-stick wallpaper is a solid option, while for pieces with curves or carvings, traditional models tend to work better because of the stronger adhesion. If you are just looking for a temporary refresh, peel-and-stick is perfect, while if you’re aiming for a long-lasting transformation, traditional wallpaper offers durability and flexibility for creative designs.
Which wallpaper offers the best durability for my furniture project?
When it comes to wallpapering furniture, the right choice is primarily about how it will hold up and how it will look and feel once applied. Durability, texture and finish all play crucial roles in determining the success of your project.
Durability
Durability is perhaps the most practical aspect as the demands on your furniture. Whether it’s in a high-traffic area or serves a more decorative purpose will dictate the type of wallpaper you need and any necessary steps to protect it:
- High-traffic areas
Furniture in high-use areas like desks, coffee tables, or kitchen cabinets require wallpaper that can handle wear and tear. Vinyl wallpaper is an excellent choice for these situations because it’s durable, washable, and scratch-resistant. - Decorative pieces
For furniture pieces that are more about aesthetics than function (e.g. bookcase backs or accent tables), durability isn’t as critical, so you can prioritise patterns and textures that enhance the overall look of the room. Lightweight wallpapers or peel-and-stick options work well in these cases.
- Resistance to moisture, heat, and UV exposure
If your furniture is in a kitchen or bathroom, you should opt for a moisture-resistant wallpaper designed to withstand humid conditions. In sunny rooms, choose a UV-resistant wallpaper to prevent fading. Also, adding a clear topcoat will provide an extra layer of defence against environmental wear and tear.
Texture
The texture of your wallpaper affects how it feels and how easy it is to work with during application.
- Smooth wallpaper
Smooth wallpaper is great for creating a polished, modern look. It’s often easier to align (and clean!), making it a practical choice for furniture that sees regular use. This type of wallpaper works beautifully in minimalist or contemporary interiors, where clean lines and simplicity are key. Its flat surface also allows the pattern or print to shine without any visual interruptions. - Textured wallpaper
Textured wallpaper adds depth and dimension to furniture, turning an ordinary piece into a tactile and visual statement. Embossed wallpapers can mimic materials like leather, wood, or fabric, giving your furniture a high-end custom look. Textured options are particularly effective for creating statement pieces, like a bold dresser or a dramatic headboard.
Finish
Whether you’re aiming for a sleek vibe, a timeless classic, or a bold statement, the right finish helps you achieve the style you’re after while ensuring the piece fits seamlessly into your space.
- Glossy finishes: a sleek, modern look
The shine of a glossy finish catches the light, making your furniture appear brighter and more dynamic. This can be especially effective in smaller rooms, where reflective surfaces help create the illusion of more space. Glossy finishes also amplify bold patterns and vibrant colours, making them perfect for statement pieces like coffee tables, sideboards, or accent cabinets. They are relatively easy to wipe clean, which is a bonus for pieces like dining tables or desks, but tend to show smudges, fingerprints, and scratches more than other finishes. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep them looking their best.
Remember: Glossy finishes work best in spaces with good lighting, as the reflective quality can appear dull or flat in poorly lit areas.
- Matte finishes: understated elegance
Matt finishes provide a soft, non-reflective surface that adds a more subtle touch of elegance to your furniture. Their understated quality ensures they won’t overwhelm the rest of your décor and will also do a great job of camouflaging small flaws, making them ideal for older furniture pieces that may have uneven surfaces or slight damage. They are a practical option for high-use furniture since they don’t show fingerprints or smudges as easily as glossy ones.
Remember: Matt finishes can sometimes be more prone to staining, so you should consider sealing your wallpaper with a protective coat (particularly for heavy use pieces or those that may be subject to spills). - Specialty finishes: bold and unique
If you are looking to make a statement, specialty finishes like metallic or glitter can transform furniture into showpieces that determine the look of a room or serve as conversation starters. Metallic finishes add a touch of glamour and sophistication, working beautifully in luxurious or modern settings. Glitter finishes can be an original solution for girls’ rooms or bold, playful spaces, adding sparkle and whimsy to your furniture. These finishes are best used for furniture that you want to stand out.
Remember: Specialty finishes often come with a higher price tag, so they’re ideal for projects where you want to splurge on something truly unique.
Transforming unexpected furniture pieces with wallpaper
The beauty of wallpapering furniture is that even the most unexpected pieces can be transformed into something stunning. Sure, dressers and bookshelves might come to mind first, but the real magic happens when you start thinking outside the box. Below are some of the themes we explore in our article "Unique furniture makeovers: wallpaper ideas you haven’t thought of".
Give common furniture a new life
The most obvious starting point for many is repurposing common furniture. Take a simple dresser, for example. Applying bold, vibrant patterns to the drawer fronts can instantly make it a standout piece in your bedroom or living space. For those who prefer a subtler approach, wallpapering the interiors of the drawers adds a hidden charm, a small detail that brings a smile every time it’s opened.
Bookshelves are another perfect canvas for creativity, as adding wallpaper to the back panels creates depth and visual interest, while applying it to the side panels can bring an unexpected twist to an otherwise basic piece. Even coffee tables, often overlooked, can be transformed with wallpaper!
Renovating unexpected surfaces
Why stop with the usual suspects? Picture a wooden chair with a bright, patterned back or a simple plastic chair elevated with a touch of texture. Bed frames, too, can benefit from a little creativity. Applying wallpaper to the headboard or the slats of the frame can completely change the character of a bedroom, turning the bed into a work of art. Cabinets and wardrobes, often functional but plain, can be completely transformed with intricate patterns or bold designs that turn doors into statements. Even stair risers, often overlooked, are an ideal spot for wallpaper.
Real-Life DIY furniture transformations with wallpaper
Some of the most exciting wallpaper projects come from real-life DIY transformations. IKEA furniture, for instance, offers a blank canvas for endless creativity. A basic bookshelf or side table can be completely reinvented with a few strips of wallpaper. Vintage furniture, too, can be given a new lease on life, and for families, bright, playful designs on desks, dressers, or toy boxes can make a child’s room feel magical and fun.
Advanced Techniques
For those who love to experiment, wallpaper opens up even more possibilities. Combining paint and wallpaper allows for beautiful mixed-media effects, while leftover scraps of wallpaper can also be used for smaller accents, such as highlighting furniture legs, handles, or trims.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into the ideas we’ve touched on here, be sure to check out our in-depth article, "Unique furniture makeovers: wallpaper ideas you haven’t thought of". It covers everything from creative transformations to expert tips and techniques to help you get started and bring your vision to life.
Mastering wallpaper application: tools, techniques, and pro tips for perfect furniture makeovers
Like for any project, the key to success in wallpapering furniture is all in the preparation. Let’s start by answering one of the most common questions:
Which tools do I need?
Make sure you have all these basic tools on hand before getting started:
- Measuring tape and ruler
Accurate measurements are key to avoiding mistakes and wasting wallpaper. - Utility knife or craft scissors
For precise cuts around edges, corners, and detailed areas. - Smoothing tool
A plastic or rubber smoothing tool helps eliminate air bubbles and ensures even application. - Wallpapering adhesive
Depending on your wallpaper type, you may need a high-quality adhesive for strong and long-lasting results. - A pencil
For marking cut lines and guiding your wallpaper placement. - Soft cloth or sponge
To clean surfaces before application and smooth out small imperfections during the process.
Additional tools and materials
Depending on the type of furniture you are planning to work on, you might need some of the following items to make your project even easier and more successful:
- Sandpaper
Essential for preparing surfaces, especially glossy or uneven ones, to improve adhesion. - Primer
For glossy or non-porous surfaces, primer helps create a base that the wallpaper can stick to more effectively. - Sealant
A topcoat of polyurethane or a decoupage medium protects your wallpaper and enhances durability, especially in high-use areas. - Painter’s tape
Use it to hold wallpaper in place temporarily while you adjust and align patterns.
Specialty tools for intricate designs
For furniture with detailed carvings, curves, or hard-to-reach areas, consider adding these specialty tools to your kit:
- Heat gun or hairdryer
Helps soften wallpaper for better adhesion around rounded or uneven surfaces. - Small rollers
Ideal for applying wallpaper smoothly to tight corners or grooves. - Set of small brushes
Perfect for adding adhesive or pressing wallpaper into intricate areas like carved designs or ridges.
How do I prepare furniture surfaces for optimal wallpaper adhesion?
Furniture isn’t like walls; each individual piece has its own personality. Some pieces are sleek and glossy, others are a little rough around the edges, and then there are the ones with all those fiddly details.To achieve a flawless finish, you’ll have to apply some good old-fashioned elbow grease. Cleaning and sanding might not be the most glamorous part of your wallpapering journey, but trust us, it’s the foundation for success. Skip this step and the result will be bubbles, peeling edges, and a lot of frustration down the line.
Clean the surfaces, because dust and grease are the enemy
First things first, you need a squeaky-clean surface. Any dust, grease, or sticky residue left behind will only sabotage your hard work later.
Start by mixing a few drops of mild detergent with warm water and grab a soft sponge. To tackle tough stains consider using a commercial degreaser, just make sure to wipe the surface thoroughly afterward and let it dry completely.
Remember: avoid oil-based cleaners as they’ll leave a residue that wallpaper adhesives cannot stick to properly.
Sand to give your surface some grip
For glossy or varnished wood or plastic pieces, this is a crucial step as sanding gives your wallpaper something to hold on to. Use fine-grit sandpaper and gently sand the surface.
You’re not trying to strip it bare, just create a little texture for better adhesion. Sand evenly to prevent raised patches that might show through the wallpaper.
Remember: wipe the surface down with a damp cloth to remove any dust particles, as they might interfere with the next step.
Prime the surface for better adhesion
While priming might seem like an extra step, it can really help with slick, non-porous surfaces, making then more receptive to adhesive.
Consider it if:
- You’re working with non-porous surfaces
Materials such as glass, metal, or plastic are naturally non-porous and lack the surface texture required for optimal wallpaper adhesion. - You’re using traditional wallpaper
Wallpaper requiring adhesive benefits greatly from a primed surface, especially on furniture that’s been heavily sanded or has uneven textures. - Your furniture has imperfections
For surfaces that are scratched, chipped, or uneven, a primer helps smooth things out, providing an even base for your wallpaper to adhere to seamlessly. - You’re dealing with old paint or varnish
Older finishes can sometimes repel wallpaper adhesive. A coat of primer deals with this issue and ensures better adhesion.
For furniture, water-based primers are often the best choice, but make sure you pick one specifically designed for your surface type. Check that your furniture is clean and dry, then apply a thin, even coat of primer using a brush or roller. Most primers dry within an hour but check the product information for exact drying times.
Navigating challenging furniture features: curves, carvings, and veneers
When working with furniture, not every surface is a flat, straightforward canvas. Some pieces come with curves, intricate carvings, or delicate veneers. While these features might seem intimidating, with the right techniques, you can turn them into stunning focal points that highlight the unique character of your furniture.
Wallpapering curves: making wallpaper bend to your will
Curves add elegance and softness to furniture, but also present a challenge when applying wallpaper. The key is to use flexible wallpaper and tools that help it conform seamlessly to rounded edges:
- Choose the right wallpaper
Avoid overly thick or rigid wallpapers as they can wrinkle or come off curved areas. Peel-and-stick wallpaper often works best for curved surfaces, as its inherent flexibility makes it easier to manipulate. - Heat is your best friend
A heat gun or hairdryer can make wallpaper more pliable, allowing it to stretch slightly and mould to the curve.
![Using a heat gun to make wallpaper pliable and conform to the curves of a furniture piece.]()
Warm the wallpaper as you apply it, working slowly and smoothing it out with clean fingers or a soft tool. - Smooth as you go
Use a smoothing tool or your hands to press the wallpaper firmly onto the surface, working from the centre outward to eliminate air bubbles or crinkles.
Wallpapering carvings: highlighting intricate details
With its ornate patterns and grooves, carved furniture offers an opportunity to showcase wallpaper in a truly unique way. However, these details require precision and patience to ensure a professional finish.
- Cut smaller sections
Trying to apply a single sheet of wallpaper over a detailed carving can lead to creases and misalignment. Instead, cut the wallpaper into smaller sections that can be worked into the grooves more easily. - Apply adhesive with great care
Use a small brush to apply adhesive directly into the carved areas. - Press into grooves
Use a small, fine-tipped brush, soft sponge, or even your fingers to gently press the wallpaper into the carvings. Avoid tools that might tear or damage the paper. - Trim excess precisely
Use a sharp utility knife for trimming excess wallpaper along the edges of carvings. Take your time to ensure clean lines that highlight the intricate details of the design.
Step-by-step guide for a seamless finish when wallpapering furniture
While achieving a seamless, professional-looking finish requires careful planning and attention to detail, the process of wallpapering furniture is pretty straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these steps:
Measure twice, cut once
Use a measuring tape to carefully measure every surface you plan to cover, including edges and corners and label the pieces as you cut them.
Account for patterns and allow for overhang
If your wallpaper has a repeating design, consider how the pattern will align across surfaces. Pre-cutting allows you to plan and match patterns seamlessly, minimising visible seams.
Remember: add about an inch (3 cm) to your measurements when cutting the wallpaper. This extra margin gives you room to adjust positioning and ensures full coverage. You can trim the excess later for a clean finish.
Organise your wallpaper pieces
Lay out your pre-cut pieces in the order you’ll apply them and keep them nearby. This way, you’re not scrambling to find the right piece mid-project.
Dry-fit the wallpaper
Before applying adhesive, lay the wallpaper over the surface to check alignment and fit. This step can save you from annoying mistakes and lets you adjust for pattern placement.
Apply wallpapering paste (if needed)
If you’re working with traditional wallpaper, use an adhesive that’s compatible with your wallpaper type. Use a roller or brush to apply it evenly across the surface, paying special attention to the edges and corners (where wallpaper is most likely to lift over time). A little extra adhesive in these areas can make a big difference.
Align wallpaper
This is the make-or-break moment where precision really pays off. Start from the centre, smoothing outward using a plastic smoothing tool or a soft cloth to press the wallpaper firmly onto the surface while removing air pockets.
Trim the edges
Using a sharp precision cutter, carefully cut along the edges of your furniture, following the contours closely. A metal ruler or straightedge can help guide your cuts to achieve perfectly straight lines. Take your time with corners as they can be tricky. Apply small, careful cuts to ensure the wallpaper fits snugly.
Note: how to handle intricate patterns
If your wallpaper has a repeating design, decide in advance how you want it to align. For example, centre bold motifs on drawer fronts or cabinet doors for symmetry. If you are using multiple pieces of wallpaper, align the patterns at the seams to create a continuous flow. Use painter’s tape to hold sections in place temporarily while you adjust.
For further instructions on how to install wallpaper on furniture, you can also check our instruction page “How to decorate furniture with wallpaper”.
Protecting and troubleshooting wallpapered furniture
Congratulations! You’ve measured, smoothed, trimmed, and transformed an ordinary piece into something extraordinary. Now that your project is complete, let’s talk about protecting your masterpiece and tackling any hiccups along the way. After all that effort, the last thing you want is peeling edges, scuffed surfaces, or a bubble popping up to ruin the vibe. We’ll dig deeper into these topics in our article “How to protect and fix wallpapered furniture: tips, maintenance, and repairs”, but here’s what you need to know:
Sealing your wallpapered furniture
Sealing your wallpapered furniture is particularly important for pieces that face daily wear or potential moisture exposure, like coffee tables, cabinets, or even bedside tables. A good sealant not only enhances the durability of the wallpaper but also adds a polished finish, whether you prefer a subtle matte look or a bold glossy shine.
There are several options to consider when choosing a sealant: from polyurethane to decoupage medium, from varnishes to spray sealants, each is suited to different requirements and styles. Head to our article for a more detailed look into this topic.
Maintaining and cleaning wallpapered surfaces
For day-to-day cleaning, a soft, damp cloth is all you need to wipe away dust and smudges. Steer clear of harsh chemicals, as these can damage the sealant or the wallpaper itself. For tougher spots, mild soap solution is a safe option, just be sure to test it on a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the finish. Gentle cleaning not only keeps your furniture looking fresh but also protects the hard work you’ve put into it. Beyond cleaning, it’s wise to keep an eye out for early signs of wear. Peeling edges, scuffs, or small tears can happen, especially on high-use pieces. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from worsening.
Troubleshooting common issues with wallpapered furniture
Adhesion problems are among the most common hurdles, especially with tricky surfaces like laminate or metal. If you notice wallpaper lifting at the edges or corners after application, a small dab of adhesive and a firm press should secure it back in place. Bubbles, creases, and misalignments can also happen, often as a result of rushing the process. Bubbles are easier to tackle, while wrinkles can sometimes be coaxed out with a little heat from a hairdryer, softening the paper so you can smooth it out. For misaligned patterns, carefully peel back the wallpaper and reposition it, taking extra time to align the design perfectly. Wear-and-tear is inevitable, but most damage can be repaired to keep your furniture looking as good as new.
To find out more about these topics, don’t forget to check our in-depth article: “<How to protect and fix wallpapered furniture: tips, maintenance, and repairs”.
DOs and DON’Ts when wallpapering furniture
Wallpapering furniture is one of the topics our customers most frequently ask about, and it’s easy to see why. The possibilities are endless, but so are the potential pitfalls. To help you navigate the process, we’ve put together some essential tips that address common challenges and ensure a flawless result. From experimenting with unusual surfaces to combining wallpaper with paint and stencils to the role of lighting, these DOs and DON’Ts will help you to achieve success. Find out more about them in our article: “Top tips and mistakes to avoid when wallpapering furniture”.
How to showcase your wallpapered furniture project and draw inspiration from the DIY community
Your furniture makeover isn’t just another project, it’s your creative journey, your labour of love! And where’s the fun in keeping that to yourself? Documenting the transformation not only gives you a chance to celebrate your hard work but also inspires others to dive into their own wallpapering adventures. Plus, who doesn’t love a little recognition (and maybe even some bragging rights)? We would love to see your finished project and be able to show it to the community, like many other passionate DIYers have done already:
We also run a competition where each quarter a project is randomly selected, and winners are entitled to a full reimbursement of their purchase price up to €1000 (or equivalent in your local currency). That’s right, your creative vision could literally pay off!
For more information on how to take part, head over to “Customer photos cashback”.
Conclusion
Wallpapering furniture is more than just a project - it’s a chance to reinvent the familiar, to take something ordinary and make it truly extraordinary. Maybe it’s about bringing a little colour into your life, or maybe it’s about making a piece of furniture feel like it’s part of your story. Whatever the reason, don’t be afraid to dive in and let your imagination lead the way. There’s no right or wrong - just a world of creative possibilities waiting for you to explore.
