Mixing Wallpaper and Paint for One-of-a-Kind Rooms

Have you ever walked into a room and felt an instant burst of creativity and inspiration?Chances are, that room had an interior design that flawlessly blended wallpaper and paint for a custom look. As an interior designer, I’m always looking for ways to create spaces that make people feel something.One of the easiest ways to craft a memorable room is by mixing wallpaper and paint. Don’t be afraid to combine different patterns, colors and textures. A little contrast can go a long way in making a statement. Forget the old rules about choosing one or the other. By embracing both wallpaper and paint in the same space, you open up a world of possibilities to craft a look that is completely and uniquely you. In this post, I’ll share some of my tried-and-true tips for mixing wallpaper and paint like a pro. Your rooms will never look boring again.

The Allure of Mixing Wallpaper and Paint

The mix of wallpaper and paint is an easy way to create one-of-a-kind rooms with character. Wallpaper adds visual interest, texture, and pattern to walls, while paint provides an affordable and DIY-friendly way to color the remaining wall space. Together, they create an eclectic look that is bold, vibrant and unique to your home.

Coordinate or contrast

You can coordinate your wallpaper and paint colors for a cohesive look or contrast them for an eye-catching style. Pairing complementary shades, tints or tones of the same color family, or matching the undertones of seemingly different colors are some ways to coordinate. For contrast, choose colors from opposite sides of the color wheel, like blue and orange or red and green.

Use wallpaper on an accent wall

Rather than wallpapering all four walls, do just one accent wall. This minimizes the busy factor and cost. An accent wall also draws attention and becomes a focal point in the room. For the remaining walls, paint them in a complementary shade for a cohesive look or in a contrasting color for maximum impact.

Extend the wallpaper onto adjacent walls

To create a custom look, have your wallpaper extend onto adjacent walls by 18 to 24 inches. The remaining walls can then be painted in a coordinating or contrasting color. This technique creates visual interest and the illusion of more wallpaper without the higher cost. The extended wallpaper also leads the eye, giving spaces a custom feel.

Consider the ceiling

Don't forget about the ceiling! Painting the ceiling a shade lighter or darker than the walls helps to visually balance the space. An unexpected pop of color or metallic on the ceiling creates a dramatic focal point above eye level. Coordinate or contrast the ceiling color to your wallpaper and wall paint for a custom look from floor to ceiling.

Mixing wallpaper and paint leads to creative spaces with personality. By coordinating or contrasting, using accent walls or extending wallpaper, and painting the ceiling, you can craft one-of-a-kind rooms to reflect your unique style.

Choosing Complementary Wallpaper and Paint Colors

When it comes to combining wallpaper and paint, complementary colors are key. Choosing hues

from the same color family or that sit opposite each other on the color wheel will create a cohesive look.

Choosing Complimentary Colors

For a monochromatic scheme, select wallpaper and paint in the same color family, like blues. Navy wallpaper pairs nicely with sky blue paint. Tonal variations in the same shade, such as sage wallpaper and seafoam green paint, also work well together.

For contrast, choose complementary colors across from each other on the color wheel, such as purple wallpaper and yellow paint. The vibrant colors balance each other out. Analogous colors that sit side by side on the wheel, such as teal wallpaper and blue-green paint, create harmony.

• Warm colors like red, orange and yellow make a space energizing. Cool colors such as blue, green and violet are more calming.
• Pairing warm and cool colors together adds visual interest. For example, brick red wallpaper with blue-gray paint.

Don't be afraid to mix patterns and solids. Wallpaper with a large scale pattern looks best with solid colored paint in the same color family. Smaller scale prints pair well with subtle texture like eggshell or satin paint.

With some experimenting, you'll find the winning wallpaper and paint combination to make your space one-of-a-kind. The options are endless! Play around on your walls or use design software until you find your perfect match.

Painting a Wallpaper Accent Wall

Painting an accent wall in your space is an easy way to make a big impact without a big commitment. Choosing to pair paint and wallpaper on a single wall creates visual interest and adds dimension to your room.

Select Your Wall

Choose a focal point wall in your room to serve as the accent wall. In living rooms, the wall behind the sofa or TV is always a good spot. For bedrooms, the wall behind the headboard is ideal. In small spaces like bathrooms or hallways, just one accent wall will do.

Pick Complimentary Patterns

Combining paint and wallpaper requires choosing designs that coordinate well together. Geometric shapes, botanical prints, and mural scenes are all options that pair nicely with solid color paint. Think about the overall style you want to achieve and choose patterns and colors that complement each other. It’s best to keep the wallpaper print small to medium in scale, as larger prints can overwhelm a space.

Use Trim for a Polished Look

Adding trim around the edges of your wallpaper accent wall helps achieve a custom, built-in look. Wood or vinyl trim also allows you to change or remove the wallpaper easily in the future without damaging the wall underneath. You can find wallpaper trim kits that include everything you need to get the job done.

Alternate Strips for Variation

Use the technique of alternating strips of wallpaper and paint for an eye-catching effect. Start by painting the wall in your chosen color. Then apply wallpaper strips, spacing them evenly apart with 4 to 6 inches of wall showing in between. This technique works well when using several different wallpaper patterns in coordinating colors. The result is a collage-inspired accent wall with visual texture.

Adding an accent wall to your space is an simple DIY project that can make a dramatic impact. By pairing paint and wallpaper together on a single focal wall, you can achieve a custom look that reflects your personal style. Get creative with different patterns, trim, and application techniques for a one-of-a-kind room that you'll love coming home to.

Adding a Wallpaper Border to Painted Walls

Adding a wallpaper border is an easy way to create visual interest in a room without fully committing to wallpapering the entire space. Border wallpaper placed just below the ceiling line or at chair rail height adds detail and color without being overpowering. It also allows you to combine wallpaper and paint for a custom look.

Choose a Style

Select a border wallpaper style that complements your existing wall color or the new paint color you have in mind. A pattern that incorporates colors from the walls will create a cohesive look. For contemporary rooms, consider geometric or nature-inspired prints. In traditional rooms, floral, damask or toile patterns work well. There are also themed borders with seashells, birds or garden motifs that can bring a whimsical touch.

Measure and Buy

Once you determine the style you want, measure the perimeter of the room to calculate how much border wallpaper you will need. Buy at least 10 to 15 percent extra to account for pattern matching and waste. Purchase your wallpaper and any additional supplies like primer, adhesive, a roller and seam roller.

Prepare the Walls

Make sure your walls are clean, smooth and primed. Apply a coat of primer if switching from a dark to light color. For the best results, paint walls at least two weeks before adding the border to allow adequate drying time.

Apply the Border

Apply wallpaper border adhesive or multipurpose adhesive to the wall, following the product directions. Position the first strip of border along your layout lines, smooth with a seam roller and trim away excess with a utility knife. Apply remaining strips, matching the pattern and trimming edges for a precise fit. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess adhesive.

Protect the Border

To protect the border wallpaper from damage, avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners. Gently wipe away dirt and stains with a microfiber cloth and water or mild detergent. Place furniture and hang wall decor cautiously to avoid ripping the delicate edge of the border.

With some careful planning and patience, adding a stylish wallpaper border is an easy DIY project that can transform the look of your room. Combined with a fresh coat of paint in a complementary hue, wallpaper borders create custom interiors with minimal cost or commitment.

Using Wallpaper on the Lower Half of a Wall

Using wallpaper on just the lower half of your walls is a simple way to create interest in a room. It allows you to take advantage of a bold print without it being overpowering. The wallpapered section serves as an accent, with the upper portion of the wall painted in a coordinating color.

Choose a focal wall.

Select one wall in the room to serve as the focal point. The other walls can remain painted. For example, wallpaper the lower half of the wall behind a bed, sofa or sideboard. This draws attention to the key furniture piece in the space.

Determine the dividing line.

Decide how high up the wall you want the wallpaper to extend. A good rule of thumb is to have the wallpaper reach somewhere between the halfway point and two-thirds of the way up the wall. The specific height depends on the ceiling height of your room and the scale of your wallpaper pattern. Have an assistant hold the wallpaper in place at different heights so you can evaluate what looks most balanced.

Use painter's tape for a clean edge.

Apply painter's tape along the edge where you want the wallpaper to end. Make sure the tape is level for the best results. Wallpaper up to the edge of the tape. Once done, carefully remove the tape. This will provide a crisp, straight edge between the wallpaper and paint.

Coordinate with paint color.

Choose a paint color for the upper portion of the wall that coordinates well with your wallpaper design. Stick to the same color family or choose a complementary shade on the color wheel. For example, pair blue wallpaper with a navy blue paint, or pair red wallpaper with an orangey paint. The coordinated color helps seamlessly blend the wallpaper and paint.

Wallpapering only part of a wall is an easy DIY project that can dramatically transform the look of a room. It allows you to incorporate pattern and color in a creative, custom way. Using this technique, you can achieve a high-end designer look for a fraction of the cost. Your one-of-a-kind room will be the envy of all your friends and family!

Painting Intricate Designs Over Wallpaper

Painting Over Wallpaper for Unique Accents

Painting intricate designs or patterns over existing wallpaper is an easy way to create one-of-a-kind accent walls. The wallpaper provides an interesting textured base for the paint to adhere to, allowing the paint to take on a whole new dimension.

To get started, choose a wallpaper that has an embossed or raised pattern. Florals, geometrics and damasks all work well for this technique. Next, select a paint color that contrasts with the wallpaper to make the details pop, or choose a complementary shade for a more subtle look.

Apply a coat of primer to the wallpaper first. This helps the paint stick better to the surface. Let the primer dry as directed.

Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you want to remain unpainted, like the edges or seams of the wallpaper. Carefully brush or roll the paint onto the wallpaper, following the pattern of the design. A small angled brush works well for getting into intricate areas. Go slowly, inspecting your work as you go to ensure full, even coverage.

Apply two or more coats of paint, waiting for each coat to dry completely between applications. Remove the tape immediately after painting. The longer it’s left on, the more likely you are to damage the wallpaper when removing it.

Consider using a sealant like polyurethane over the painted wallpaper. This protects your work of art and provides a durable finish. The sealant also enhances the depth and dimension, making the details even more pronounced.

With some patience and a steady hand, you can create stunning works of art on your walls. Painting over wallpaper allows you to upcycle and customize your space, all while keeping costs down. The end results are sure to spark lots of interest and become conversation pieces in your home.

Creating an Ombre Effect With Wallpaper and Paint

Creating an ombre effect with wallpaper and paint is an easy way to make a bold statement in your space. By blending wallpaper and paint, you can achieve a custom look for a fraction of the cost of hand-painting an ombre design.

Select Your Hues

Choose 2-3 complementary colors that flow together, like blues and greens or oranges and reds. For the wallpaper, select a pattern that incorporates your chosen shades. Then purchase paint samples in the same color family to find your perfect ombre blend.

Start With Wallpaper

Install the wallpaper on one focal wall, like behind your bed or sofa. For the best results, choose a wallpaper with a gradual color gradation or an abstract pattern where colors mesh together. A mural-style wallpaper with a scenic ombre design works great for this technique.

Blend With Paint

To create an ombre fade with paint, start with the darkest shade at the top of the wall, above the wallpaper. Use a paintbrush to apply the first coat, then use a roller for subsequent coats. As you work your way down, introduce the lighter shades in thin layers, blending and overlapping the colors as you go. Add the lightest shade along the bottom edge of the wallpaper so the colors transition smoothly from dark to light.

Consider the Ceiling

For a dramatic statement, consider bringing the ombre effect up to the ceiling. Use the same technique, starting with the darkest shade in the corner where the focal wall meets the ceiling. Blend the shades as you work across the ceiling, ending in the lightest color above the opposite end of the wallpaper.

An ombre wall created from wallpaper and paint is a great way to bring color and depth to any room. With some patience and the right tools, you can achieve a high-end custom look in your own home. Let your creativity shine through by choosing a color palette and design that reflects your unique style.

Incorporating Metallic Wallpaper and Shimmery Paints

Metallic wallpapers and shimmery paints are a fun way to inject glamor and pizzazz into any room. The reflective, luminous qualities give spaces an opulent feel. When combined, they create eye-catching feature walls and accents that dazzle.

Metallic Wallpaper

Gold, silver, copper—metallic wallpapers come in a variety of lustrous hues. Foil or Mylar coated papers have an ultra-shiny, mirror-like sheen while flocked metallics have a raised velvety texture. Either works well as an accent wall. For small powder rooms or tight spaces, metallic wallpaper on all four walls can make a bold statement without overwhelming.

Shimmer Paint

Pearlescent or metallic paints contain mica or aluminum flakes that reflect light, giving walls a shimmery glow. Brands like Ralph Lauren, Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore offer metallic paint collections in colors ranging from champagne to graphite. For the most dramatic effect, choose a dark, intense shade. Apply two coats, waiting for each to dry completely. The shimmer is more pronounced when the light grazes the surface, so sloped ceilings, trim and doors are ideal for metallic paint.

Combining Them

Using metallic wallpaper and shimmer paint together creates an ultra-glam space with depth and dimension. Some stylish ways to combine them:

• Accent wall: Apply metallic wallpaper to one wall and paint the remaining walls in a coordinating shimmery shade.
• Ceiling: For a jewel box feel, paper the walls in a metallic print and paint the ceiling in a contrasting metallic color.
• Trim: Paint the walls in a pearlescent hue and use metallic wallpaper on the trim and doors for a dramatic frame.
• Geometric shapes: Cut metallic wallpaper into geometric shapes to create a striking collage on one wall, then paint the surrounding walls in a shimmery paint for a glittering effect.

The reflective and radiant qualities of metallics and shimmers create showstopping spaces. When mixed and matched, they take on a life of their own, glowing and glistening in the light. Dare to shine in your home decor with these resplendent materials!

FAQ: Tips for Successfully Combining Wallpaper and Paint for Unique Interiors

Combining wallpaper and paint is a great way to create unique interiors with lots of character. Here are some tips to help you successfully mix wallpaper and paint:

Start with a focal wall.

Choose one wall to be your statement wall with wallpaper. The other walls can be painted in a complementary color. This helps avoid an overpowering look.

Consider the scale.

Make sure the pattern size of the wallpaper suits the size of the room. Large patterns in a small space can feel closed in. Small patterns in a big room may get lost.

Coordinate colors.

Select a paint color in the same color family as the wallpaper. Look for a shade lighter, darker or more muted. This creates cohesion. Or choose a contrasting color for a bolder look.

Accent with trim.

Use the wallpaper on the wall and paint the trim and ceiling in a contrasting color. The trim helps frame the wallpaper and adds dimension.

Pay attention to lighting.

The way a room is lit has a big impact on the final look. Make sure you view the wallpaper in the actual lighting conditions of the space. Natural light and overhead lighting can change the look.

Consider sheen.

Choose a paint sheen that matches or contrasts with the finish of the wallpaper. Matte finishes help the wallpaper stand out while glossy finishes reflect more light. Combining different sheens adds more interest.

Don't forget the ceiling!

Painting the ceiling a different color than the walls helps make a space feel more cozy and intimate. A darker ceiling color paired with lighter walls also makes a ceiling appear higher.

Test it out first.

If possible, buy samples of the wallpaper and small sample pots of paint to test in the space. This allows you to see how they work together before committing to the full project. You may find you prefer different colors or patterns than you originally thought!

Following these helpful tips will ensure your mix of wallpaper and paint creates a one-of-a-kind room you'll love! Let your creativity shine through in the details.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, some simple tips for combining wallpaper and paint to create one-of-a-kind rooms with serious wow factor. Don't be afraid to experiment - the key is choosing patterns and colors you love, then just diving in. Start with an accent wall and see how it makes you feel. If you crave more, go ahead and do the whole room or extend onto adjacent walls. Mixing and matching wallpaper and paint is all about following your instincts and having fun with it. The results will be rooms that reflect your unique style and personality. So grab some samples, pick up a brush, and get creative! The only limit is your imagination.