What is Wallpaper for Walls? A Comprehensive Guide

A wallpaper for wall is a cover on the wall, designed with creative patterns and prints made with superior-quality paper and materials. Unlike paint, it is affordable and looks more beautiful and catchy. They come in various themes and patterns, such as nature, flowers, geometry, and abstract, displaying stunning artistry that interests the space. Wall wallpaper is used to cover some unexpected spaces that paint could never do. From small racks in the kitchen to tiling the bathroom wall without an actual tile, there are some wonders that wallpaper can bring to your space, but paint cannot.

Reading further, you will understand the different wallpaper types and designs that make wallpapers a new-age thing.

Types of wallpaper and their unique qualities

The wallpaper industry works in two categories. First, the traditional or woven material (made with fabric), and second, the modern and non-woven material (made with special papers)

Woven wallpapers are hectic to install and stay permanently on walls, whereas some non-woven wallpaper (peel and stick) is removable & seamless while keeping the wall safe. At Giffywalls, we consider non-woven materials over woven wall coverings due to their eco-friendly raw material and ease of installation. Traditional wallpapers are built with synthetics and VOC fabrics that pose a threat to the environment and increase production wastage.

Our four main categories are

Standard paper

Standard home wallpaper has a matte finish and high quality, adding a textured effect with good print. It is non-shimmery and beautifully blends in high-engaging areas, proving its heavy duty. They eliminate synthetic fibres and are tear- or scratch-resistant. It is breathable, keeping the environment safe and fresh. It requires extra glue to paste it on the wall and needs a professional’s help to hang it for a smooth finish.

Premium paper

A premium, eco-friendly wallpaper has a feather finish and is a non-glossy paste-on-wall wallpaper. While it needs installation support to hang it, it is easy to unroll and apply due to its lightweight. The picture quality is good, and it is durable with scratch-resistant and eco-centric content. It is applicable to ceilings, foyers, and even small shelves for its versatile texture and rich effect. It is also known as feather paper, as feathers show up when tearing or damage takes place.

Peel and stick wallpaper

Peel and stick removable wallpaper is the ultimate adornment for modern homes. It is loved for its handiness and is practical with easy installation. No external support is required to hang peel and stick, as it is DIY and directly sticks to the wall once peeled off from the back. No wallpaper other than peel and stick is applicable on a bathroom wall or kitchen, as its water-resistant texture exudes dryness even in humid, high-moisture spaces. It is popular among renters for its temporary option that comes out easily when peeled off the wall.

Canvas paper

Just like other eco-friendly wallpapers, canvas paper is one hundred per cent PVC-free. It doesn’t carry harmful contents and is safe for the environment around it. It is safe for baby nurseries, kids' rooms, and other sensitive areas, adding breathable and fresh air. Applicable on ceilings, it’s perfect for a modern appeal with no gloss. The texture is smooth and works well, particularly with dark-themed imagery. It is non-removable and stays permanently on the wall, and might damage the surface while removing it.

What are some popular wallpapers for each room?

Many style ideas are trending and beautifying each space with a lot of vibrance. With little planning and appropriate wallpaper designs, you can style your space with stunning artistry that does the job of a perfect interior.

Here are the top wallpaper choices for every room, designed to bring stunning elegance indoors.

Bedroom

Bedrooms are about cozy atmospheres and comfortable interiors that relax the mind as soon as we enter. The wallpaper we choose has a significant impact on its energy and decides the mood of the space. To complement its comfort, a flower wallpaper with a nice warm tone is suggested by designers to enhance the appeal and snugness of a restful bedroom.

Living room 

The living room is the first space you see while entering a house. Therefore, it has to be striking and impactful with lots of personality. It needs something gender-neutral and catchy for a captivating view, just like a nature wallpaper featuring vibrant forests and jungles, and many natural characters. Adding such designs refreshes the space and makes it intriguing with unique imagery.

Kids room

Kids' room wallpaper is made with cute characters and adorable features, adding fantasy for little dreamers. It helps create a playful environment for children and makes their moment special. It also makes them learn new things and sparks their imagination with creative ideas. Themes such as animal safari, fairytale castle, hot air balloon, and sky adventure are some popular wallpapers designed to add value to your little one’s room.

Bathroom

Nowadays, a leaf wallpaper with a tint of green is on-trend for a bathroom wall. It infuses greenery and evokes a spa-like freshness in the space. Please bear in mind that you choose only peel-and-stick temporary wallpaper for bathrooms to keep the decor dry and timeless for years to come.

Try Giffywalls if you’re a beginner

We have got your walls wrapped in warmth and luxury with a complete guide to wallpaper installation. We offer no-cost delivery on orders from anywhere around the world and send free samples for a look test. We send instructional pamphlets on DIY orders and tools for a seamless installation required for effortless wallpapering. We are right here to reach out to you for any queries or product-related issues on every order. We care about your walls and desire to speak your personality through creative coverings.

FAQs on Wallpaper for Walls

1. What types of wallpaper are available?

Wallpaper types include Standard Paper (budget-friendly but less durable), Premium Paper (thicker and longer-lasting), Peel and Stick (easy to apply and remove, great for renters), and Canvas Wallpaper (luxurious texture, ideal for feature walls). Choose based on durability, style, and installation preference.

2. How do I choose the right wallpaper for my room?

Consider your room’s purpose, lighting, and size. Go for bold patterns in spacious rooms, light colors in small spaces, and durable, washable types for high-traffic or humid areas. Choose peel and stick for easy updates or rentals, and textured or canvas for a luxe finish. Match colors and style with your décor theme.

3. How much wallpaper do I need?

Measure the height and width of each wall, add up the total square footage, then subtract doors and windows. Divide that by the roll coverage area (usually listed on the packaging). Always order 10–15% extra for pattern matching and errors.

4. Can I wallpaper over existing wallpaper or painted walls?

Yes, you can wallpaper over painted walls if they’re clean, dry, and smooth. For existing wallpaper, it's possible but not ideal — ensure the old layer is firmly attached, flat, and not vinyl. Use a primer or liner for better adhesion and results.

5. How do I prepare my walls for wallpaper?

Clean the walls to remove dust, grease, or old adhesive. Fill holes and sand rough areas for a smooth surface. For painted walls, lightly sand and apply primer if needed. If wallpapering over dark paint or patterns, use a white primer or lining paper for best results.

6. What are the main wallpaper installation methods?

The main wallpaper installation methods are:

1. Peel and Stick: Self-adhesive, easy to apply and remove — ideal for renters and DIYers.
2. Pre-Pasted: Activated with water; no extra glue needed.
3. Paste the Wall: Apply adhesive to the wall, then hang the wallpaper — quicker and cleaner.
4. Paste the Paper: Apply paste directly to the wallpaper — requires more care and time.

7. What tools do I need for wallpaper installation?

You'll need a smoothing tool, utility knife, measuring tape, level, pencil, paste/adhesive (if not peel and stick), a paint roller or brush for paste, seam roller, sponge or cloth for cleaning, and a step ladder. A wallpaper tray is helpful for pre-pasted types.

8. Can I customize wallpaper with my own design or color?

Yes, many wallpaper companies offer custom wallpaper options where you can upload your own design, artwork, or choose custom colors. It's ideal for personal branding, murals, or unique décor themes. Make sure your design is high-resolution for best print quality.

9. Can I wallpaper over any surface?

No, not all surfaces are suitable. Wallpaper adheres best to smooth, clean, and dry walls. Avoid textured, greasy, or damp surfaces. Glossy paint should be sanded, and raw surfaces like concrete or wood may need sealing. Test a small area if unsure.

10. How do I wallpaper around obstacles like sockets, windows, and corners?

Turn off power near sockets/switches, cut the wallpaper slightly larger, then trim neatly around the edges. For windows, overlap slightly into the frame and trim. In corners, don’t wrap one strip—use two, slightly overlapping for a clean finish. Always smooth out air bubbles.