Wallpaper knowledge base

Use non-woven wallpaper adhesive such as Arte Clearpro. On absorbent/powdery walls, prime first.

No. Corners are rarely 100% square. By carrying a seam 50 to 60 cm around the corner, you prevent the wallpaper from coming loose or gaping visibly.

Yes, provided the surface is clean, dry, sound and even. Degrease, lightly sand, and if in doubt use a primer for better adhesion.

Because corners are often not straight. If you start there, your length can run crooked and visible deviations occur. By starting 50–60 cm out from the corner with a guideline, you prevent crooked lengths and achieve a neat join.

With patterned wallpaper or natural/textile wallpaper, you decide in advance how the design is distributed across the wall. This ensures that the pattern comes out nicely in visible places and does not partly disappear into a corner. For natural/textile wallpaper it is also important, so that your seams are nicely distributed across the wall. This gives a calm appearance.

Work at 18–22 °C and around 40–60% RH. Avoid draught and direct sun/heating. Close windows/doors while pasting and leave to dry for 24 hours.

With plain wallpaper you do not need to match a pattern, but do pay attention to direction/texture and the incidence of light. Do not reverse the lengths.

Wet the wallpaper with warm water (with a stripping agent if necessary) and let it soak in. Pull it loose with a putty knife. Non-woven wallpaper is often strippable dry, depending on the type/surface.

Yes, as long as you choose the right type. Washable vinyl wallpaper works well in the splash zone; for the area around the bath or shower, choose a waterproof system such as the WET SYSTEM™ by Wall & Deco. Browse all suitable designs in the bathroom wallpaper collection.

Acoustic wallpaper is a wall covering that absorbs sound instead of reflecting it. The top layer consists of textile, non-woven or micro-perforated material, often with a felt or foam backing. The result: less echo, more pleasant sound and a warm, tactile wall. It looks like design wallpaper and works as sound dampening at the same time.

That depends on the product. Leading brands such as Texdecor and Omexco provide acoustic reports per collection, with concrete absorption values (αw). In living rooms and bedrooms, acoustic wallpaper is often enough to noticeably reduce echo. For heavy noise loads, it can be combined with other sound-absorbing measures.

Yes — modern acoustic wall coverings are designed by leading design houses such as Texdecor, Omexco, Elitis, Casamance, Arte and Moooi. Collections range from sleek and minimalist to richly textured, in serene shades or bold statement colours. Function and aesthetics go hand in hand.

Acoustic wall covering is specifically developed or tested to absorb sound; with regular wallpaper, sound absorption is typically not a designed product feature. Acoustic wallpaper has a special fibre-rich or perforated structure that captures sound waves. Visually, the difference is often minimal—your wall looks just as beautiful, but sounds completely different. Acoustic wallpaper also insulates slightly better thermally.

Acoustic wallpaper is supplied on rolls and applied with a specific adhesive to a smooth, clean surface. Because of the thickness and structure, it requires careful workmanship — the seams need to line up exactly for a seamless finish. Professional installation is recommended, especially for larger walls and textured designs.

Grassweave wallpaper is a luxurious wall covering made from natural fibers such as sisal, abaca, jute, or paper. These fibers are hand-woven and then applied to a backing (such as paper or textile). The result is a unique, natural texture that adds warmth and character to a room.

This wallpaper is ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, offices and other dry spaces where atmosphere and luxury are desired.

Well-known brands that include grassweave wallpaper in their collections are: Arte, Elitis, Casamance, Greenland, Thibaut, CMO Paris, Mark Alexander and Omexco.

No, jute wallpaper is not suitable for damp areas. Choose vinyl or a washable alternative instead.

Yes, with textile wallpaper, light seams are fine. Good preparation and precise cutting help, but they remain part of the look.

Cork wallpaper is a natural wall covering with a top layer of real cork, laminated onto a non-woven or paper backing. The cork is harvested from the bark of the cork oak, mainly in Portugal, without harming the tree. Every length is unique thanks to natural variation in structure, colour and grain.

Cork wallpaper is not suitable for humid rooms such as bathrooms or steam-heavy kitchens. The natural material can deform with prolonged exposure to moisture. For living rooms, bedrooms, studies and hallways, however, cork wallpaper is an excellent choice.

Cork wallpaper falls in the mid-range to higher segment. The price depends on the brand, the finish (natural or metallic), the width of the roll and the order unit. View the current price and roll dimensions for each product.

Yes, cork wallpaper is one of the most sustainable wall coverings available. The bark of the cork oak is harvested every nine years without felling the tree. The tree continues to absorb CO₂ and keeps on growing. Cork is therefore a fully renewable natural product.

Yes, cork naturally has excellent acoustic and thermal properties. It dampens sound and contributes to a pleasant indoor climate. This makes cork wallpaper particularly well suited to studies, bedrooms and open living spaces where you want to reduce echo.

Linen wallpaper is a wall covering where the surface consists of real woven linen. The material is often laminated to a fleece or paper backing, so that it is easy to work with. The result? A tactile, breathable and refined wall finish that gives warmth and depth to any room.

Yes — our linen wallpaper is made from real linen fibres, sourced from the flax plant. The fibre layer is laminated onto a non-woven or paper backing, making the product easy to hang. This makes it more durable and less susceptible to moisture than pure paper. The tactile weave pattern is the defining characteristic that sets linen wallpaper apart from regular wallpaper.

Linen wallpaper is the choice for those who love: Natural look – understated luxury, without shine. Tactile texture – you can see and feel the weave. Calm, layered interiors – perfect in minimalist, Scandinavian or Japandi styles. Acoustic comfort – subtly dampens sound thanks to the fibre structure. It is the ideal background for a warm, stylish and timeless interior.

Dust gently with a soft brush or feather duster. Some linen wall coverings are coated, making the wallpaper easy to clean.

Linen wallpaper is exceptionally versatile. It works as a quiet, warm base in Japandi, Scandinavian and minimalist interiors, but also fits classic or rustic styles. The natural tones combine beautifully with wooden furniture, linen curtains and ceramic accessories. Want an accent? Choose a richer colour for one wall — linen wallpaper carries colour in a warm, matte way.

Mica wallpaper is a luxurious wall covering made from natural mica stones – small minerals with a shimmering, pearlescent effect. These are applied by hand to a non-woven backing, creating a unique, sparkling texture.

The difference lies in the finish. Mica wallpaper reflects light thanks to the natural stones, creating a subtle sheen and adding extra depth to the wall. Regular wallpaper often has a flat surface, while mica wallpaper has a vibrant, luxurious texture that enriches the interior.

Mica wallpaper is a durable wall covering: the natural mica stone particles are inherently colourfast. Light resistance and maintenance recommendations do vary by collection and backing — please check the product specifications of your chosen design.

Mica wallpaper is supplied on a sturdy non-woven backing. You apply the adhesive directly to the wall, after which you simply position the wallpaper. Despite its luxurious appearance, application is comparable to non-woven wallpaper – simple and efficient.

Paper wallpaper is a traditional form of wall covering made entirely of paper, without a non-woven backing. It has a natural, matte look and is ideal for smooth walls. The fine texture allows prints and details to stand out beautifully – especially with classic designs.

The main difference lies in the backing of the wallpaper. Paper wallpaper has a paper backing and is glued before application, while with non-woven wallpaper the glue is applied directly to the wall. Paper wallpaper is thinner and therefore gives an extra sleek and refined result, but requires a little more precision when pasting.

With paper wallpaper, you apply the glue directly to the wallpaper, not the wall. Let it soak in for a while before applying it, so the paper can settle properly. This classic technique requires a little more attention, but yields a particularly even and elegant result. For extra convenience, you can hire a professional who has experience with traditional wallpaper.

Raffia wallpaper is woven from the fibres of the raffia palm. The fibres are carefully separated and washed. They are then dried and woven.

The price of raffia wallpaper varies by brand and finish and is usually calculated per linear metre (m1). View the current prices with the products in the collection.

Sisal wallpaper is made from fibres of the agave plant, the thin grass fibres are often hand-woven and attached to a paper or non-woven backing.

Sisal offers a luxurious and natural appearance. The visible top layer consists of plant-based sisal fibres; the composition of the backing and finish varies by product — check the product specifications for PVC-free properties and certifications. Sisal is available in many variations and colour shades.

The wallpaper is not resistant to water and moisture. The seams are always visible and the sisal can discolour in sunlight.

The price of sisal wallpaper depends on the brand, the width of the roll and the unit of sale (per linear metre or per roll). View the current prices with the products in the collection.

Suede wallpaper is a luxurious wall covering with a soft, velvety texture that resembles real suede. It gives walls a warm and chic look and adds extra atmosphere to the room.

Suede wallpaper is best suited for living rooms, bedrooms, or offices where you want to create a luxurious look. It is not suitable for bathrooms or kitchens.

Because suede wallpaper has a soft fiber structure, it is more susceptible to dirt and stains than standard wallpaper. Usually, dust can be easily removed with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. For stubborn stains, gentle blotting is often better than rubbing.

Textile wallpaper is a wall covering where real fabric — such as linen, silk, wool or suede — is applied to a paper or non-woven backing. The weave structure remains visible and tangible, creating depth, warmth and a luxurious appearance. It is supplied per roll and applied like regular wallpaper, using a special textile adhesive.

The most popular materials are linen, silk, wool, cotton, viscose and suede. Linen gives a calm natural look, silk and suede are chic and luxurious, wool and felt are sound-absorbing and warm. Each material determines both the appearance and the ease of maintenance of the wall.

Textile wallpaper is slightly more demanding than non-woven or paper wallpaper, as the fabric is more sensitive to glue stains and pulling. For a flawless result we recommend an experienced wallpaper installer. You can find a local professional via our professional wallpaper installer page, or read step-by-step instructions on our DIY wallpapering guide.

In humid rooms such as bathrooms, we advise against textile wallpaper; the natural fibres absorb moisture. In a kitchen it can work, provided it stays away from cooking fumes and splash zones. For these rooms, vinyl or non-woven wallpaper is a better choice.

Dust the wall regularly with a soft duster or vacuum with a brush attachment on low suction. Do not rub stains; gently dab them with a dry cloth. Some materials, such as vinyl-coated textile, can be wiped with a slightly damp cloth — always check the product specifications of your chosen design.

Vinyl wallpaper is a wallcovering with a durable synthetic top layer (PVC or a PVC-free variant) on a non-woven or paper backing. This top layer makes the wallpaper water-repellent, scratch-resistant and wipeable with a damp cloth. This makes vinyl wallpaper ideal for rooms where walls take a beating, without compromising on luxurious appearance.

Vinyl wallpaper is the smarter choice when you want both design and durability. The vinyl top layer protects against moisture, stains and wear — qualities where traditional paper wallpaper eventually gives up. This makes vinyl perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, hallways and children's rooms, without compromising on luxurious appearance or pattern choice.

Yes, that is one of its main advantages. Vinyl wallpaper is splash-water resistant and suitable for bathrooms (outside the shower zone), kitchens, toilets and utility rooms. For genuinely wet spaces like a walk-in shower, we recommend our dedicated bathroom wallpaper collection — specifically developed for higher humidity and direct water exposure.

More and more brands are developing PVC-free vinyl wallpapers with a focus on recyclability and low emissions. Collections from Vescom and Arte, for example, offer sustainable variants that meet strict European standards for harmful substances. Check the product specifications for certifications such as emission class A+ or PVC-free — these are the reliable indicators of an environmentally friendly choice.

Most vinyl wallpapers have a non-woven backing, which means you apply paste directly to the wall and hang the wallpaper dry. This is faster and cleaner than traditional paper wallpaper. Does the vinyl have a paper backing? Then soak the strips first — this is always stated on the label. The current application method can be found on each product page.

Non-woven wallpaper is a type of wallpaper with a strong non-woven fibre backing. The key advantage is that you paste the wall rather than the wallpaper itself. This makes it much easier to hang and just as simple to remove later on.

Non-woven wallpaper has a breathable fibre backing — ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. Vinyl wallpaper has a plastic layer that is highly durable and moisture-resistant, making it suitable for kitchens or hallways. Both types are applied to a pasted wall, but non-woven wallpaper gives a softer and more refined result.

One of the great advantages of non-woven wallpaper is that it can be removed dry and in a single piece. There is no need to soak or steam it. This makes removal quick and clean, with no damage to the wall underneath.

The number of rolls you need depends on the dimensions of your wall, the roll width and the pattern repeat. As a rule of thumb: measure the perimeter of the room and divide by the roll width, then factor in the ceiling height. Use our wallpaper calculator for an accurate result based on your specific room.

Yes, non-woven wallpaper is ideally suited for DIY enthusiasts. Because you apply the paste to the wall instead of the wallpaper, you maintain control and can easily adjust the wallpaper. Traditional rolls are often 52–53 cm wide; the majority of our range is 70 cm wide, which makes handling easier. Always check the width and roll length for your chosen product. Want to be sure of a perfect result? We can put you in touch with a professional wallpaper installer.

Silk wallpaper is a wall covering with genuine silk incorporated into the surface. The material has a fine texture and visibly reacts to light, creating subtle sheen and color variations.

Silk wallpaper is primarily used in living rooms, bedrooms, reception areas, and other spaces where the wall plays a significant visual role. It is not suitable for damp areas such as bathrooms or kitchens.

Yes, silk wallpaper is very sensitive to moisture. In addition, the surface is more susceptible to damage from friction or impact. Careful handling and a suitable space are therefore essential.

Yes, silk can be sensitive to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. In areas with a lot of sun, it's wise to take this into account when choosing the color and placement.

Yes. Depending on the material composition, acoustic wallpaper can help reduce reverberation and sound reflections. You'll achieve the best results when combined with other soft materials, such as curtains, rugs, and upholstered furniture.

No. Acoustic wallpaper is designed to improve room acoustics, not to block sound from adjacent homes. Structural building solutions are needed for that.

Textile wallpaper naturally has a soft structure that can contribute to a more pleasant sound environment. Acoustic wallpaper is specifically designed to partially absorb or disperse sound and therefore often makes a greater contribution to room acoustics.

Yes, absolutely! Especially in modern new-build homes with lots of glass, hard floors, and open living spaces, acoustic wallpaper can contribute to a quieter and more comfortable sound experience.

Acoustic wallpaper is widely used in living rooms, dining rooms, home offices, bedrooms, and hospitality projects. The best choice depends on the space and how it's used.

Yes. Especially when the largest wall is fitted with acoustic wall covering, this can contribute to fewer sound reflections. The effect varies depending on the space and material choice.

Absolutely. Modern acoustic wall coverings combine high-quality designs and rich textures with functional properties. As a result, they're increasingly becoming a fully integrated part of interior design.

Look not only at the design, but also at the material composition, the function of the space, and the existing materials. Our specialists are happy to advise you on a suitable solution.

Yes, absolutely. Thanks to water-repellent coatings and waterproof resin systems, bathroom wallpaper is now a full alternative to tiles — even in humid rooms. We work with brands like Wall & Deco, Glamora, Inkiostro Bianco, Tecnografica, LondonArt and Instabilelab, each with their own technical solution for the bathroom. Do ensure good ventilation and professional application for the best result.

Yes, but only with a professional waterproof system like Wet System by Wall & Deco, H2O by Tecnografica or Glass Finish by LondonArt. These systems add a protective resin layer that makes the wallpaper fully waterproof. Vinyl and non-woven wallpaper are not suitable for wet areas — reserve those for drier zones like behind the sink or in the toilet.

Wallpaper brings your bathroom warmth, character and endless design freedom — from subtle textures to cinematic murals. No grout lines means less build-up and mould risk, and installation is faster and easier to replace than tiles. Ideal if you want something new again in a few years — without a sledgehammer.

Of course. At Selected Wallpapers you can order samples of virtually every suitable wallpaper. Assess the colour and texture in real bathroom light — which is often cooler than your living room, making tones read differently. Samples are available for a small fee.

For drier zones, an experienced DIYer can handle it. For the shower and direct wet zones, we recommend a paperhanger experienced with waterproof systems — preparation, seam finishing and resin coating are precise work that determines longevity. Our customer service can refer you to specialised installers.

Yes, but only with a system specifically designed for it, like Wall & Deco's WET SYSTEM™: a waterproof wallpaper system that can withstand direct water contact, even in the shower itself. Standard paper or non-woven wallpaper can't do that, no matter how well you ventilate.

Ventilate after showering so condensation doesn't remain on the wall, wipe away splashes with a soft, slightly damp cloth, and don't use aggressive cleaning products or scouring pads. Check the seams and edges occasionally, because that's almost always where a moisture problem starts.

That depends on what you're comparing. Installing tiles is labor-intensive and often involves demolition work during renovation; wallpaper is applied faster and easier to replace. A waterproof system for the shower area requires a larger investment than a roll of vinyl, but it replaces the entire tiled wall. Therefore, compare based on total costs, both materials and labor.

Where walls used to be painted standard white, more and more people nowadays consciously choose wallpaper. Not only because it's beautiful, but because it instantly gives a space more warmth, depth and personality. Paint provides color, but wallpaper adds an extra dimension. Textures, reliefs, natural materials and refined patterns create an atmosphere that's hard to achieve with paint alone. That's why more and more interior designers use wallpaper as the starting point for a complete interior.

With thousands of collections and countless colors, it can be difficult to make the right choice. That's why we advise not to look directly at a pattern, but first at the space itself. Ask yourself the following questions: What atmosphere do I want to create? How much daylight comes in? Is the space large or rather compact? Will the wallpaper be an eye-catcher or rather a calm background? Which furniture will remain? By first determining the function of the space, choosing wallpaper becomes much easier.

One of the biggest advantages of wallpaper is that you can use it to create atmosphere in a targeted way. But does that automatically mean you have to wallpaper all walls? Certainly not. Which wall you choose depends on the layout of the space, the light exposure and especially the effect you want to achieve. With wallpaper you can make a space feel optically larger, higher or more intimate. Our infographic above shows what spatial effect different applications of wallpaper can create.

Anyone looking for wallpaper quickly discovers that prices vary greatly. Where one roll costs a few dozen euros, an exclusive wall covering can run into hundreds or even thousands of euros. This often raises the question: where exactly is that difference? The answer lies not only in the brand, but especially in the material, the production technique and the finish. Just as there is a difference between a standard chair and a designer piece of furniture, there are also major quality differences within wallpaper.

One of the most frequently asked questions when buying wallpaper is: how many rolls or meters of wallpaper do I need? The answer depends on more than just the dimensions of the wall. The roll width, roll length, the pattern repeat and the pattern match all play an important role in calculating the right amount of wallpaper. Easily calculate the required wallpaper For every wallpaper on our webshop you'll find a smart calculator.

Little Greene is sold through specialized retailers. At Selected Wallpapers, you can order Little Greene paint, wallpaper, sample pots and swatches, and get advice on matching combinations.

Little Greene is primarily offered through specialized dealers and interior design shops and is generally not part of the standard range at general hardware stores.

Little Greene paint can be mixed in all colors from the Little Greene color collection. Additionally, RAL colors can also be mixed in your desired Little Greene paint quality.

First choose the color, then determine which paint quality suits the surface, the space, and your desired sheen level.

Absolute Matt has a very matte, chalky appearance and is particularly suitable for low-traffic spaces. Intelligent Matt is also very matte but stronger and more washable, making this quality more suitable for higher-traffic spaces.

For kitchen walls, a washable paint quality is often chosen, such as Intelligent Matt. For woodwork, kitchen cabinets, or surfaces that are more intensively used, Intelligent Eggshell or Intelligent Satin may be more suitable. The right choice depends on the specific surface.

For bathrooms, a washable and moisture-resistant paint quality is important. Intelligent Matt can be suitable for walls and ceilings, while Intelligent Eggshell can be applied to surfaces that are cleaned more intensively. Always ensure adequate ventilation.

You can use a color card or sample pot to evaluate a color at home. A sample pot gives the best impression when you apply the paint on a large, movable test surface.

A wallpaper sample can be ordered for almost all designs. This allows you to assess the actual colors, details, and material appearance before purchasing full rolls.

Coverage varies per paint quality and surface. Therefore, always check the technical information for your chosen product. When calculating, account for multiple coats and extra absorption by new or porous surfaces.

Use the wall dimensions in combination with the roll size and pattern repeat. A wallpaper calculator can provide a reliable initial calculation. For large designs or multiple walls, additional verification is recommended.

Yes. Many paint colors and wallpaper designs coordinate in terms of color scheme. For example, choose a background color from the wallpaper for the remaining walls and use a deeper accent color on woodwork or custom elements.

That depends on the surface and the chosen paint quality. New, porous, smooth, or difficult-to-adhere surfaces often require a suitable primer for an even and durable finish.

For most Little Greene paint qualities, two coats are recommended. With a strong color difference or a porous surface, a primer or extra coat may be necessary.

Custom-mixed paint is specially prepared for your order and therefore cannot be returned. Check your chosen color in advance with a sample pot, so you can evaluate the color in your own space and under different lighting conditions. Only in case of a demonstrable product or mixing error will we work together to find an appropriate solution.

If you're thinking about luxury wallpaper that really makes a statement, you'll quickly come across Arte wallpaper. But what exactly is Arte? And why has this brand become so incredibly popular in recent years among interior enthusiasts, designers and lovers of high-end living? In this blog we'll dive right in!

Arte is a Belgian family business that has been specializing in high-quality designer wallpaper since 1981. They're known for their innovative designs, unique textures and use of luxury materials. This isn't just a simple print on your wall – Arte wallpaper feels like a work of art. From subtle, minimalist textures to striking 3D patterns: with Arte you bring a real eye-catcher into your home. Moreover, the collections are often inspired by art, nature and architecture, so that every wall tells its own story.

The popularity of Arte wallpaper isn't just a trend. There are several clear reasons why this brand is so beloved worldwide: 1. Luxurious appearance Arte radiates pure elegance. It's not just wallpaper, but a style statement that immediately elevates your interior to a higher level. 2. Innovative designs With special textures, reliefs and materials, Arte creates collections time and again that surprise. Think of velvet-soft finishes, metallic details and geometric 3D patterns. 3.

Biophilic design is all about the connection between humans and nature. The word biophilic comes from the Greek words bio (life) and philia (love or attraction). The idea behind it is simple: people feel more comfortable in an environment that contains natural elements. Not just visually, but also in material experience, light, texture and atmosphere.

1. Choose natural colours Colours from nature immediately bring more tranquility to an interior. Think of: sand tones, warm beige colours, moss green, terracotta, clay colours and soft earth tones. These colours form a calm base that easily combines with natural materials. 2. Use organic shapes In nature, almost no perfectly straight lines exist. Organic shapes therefore often feel more pleasant and softer. Think for example of: round mirrors, rounded sofas, asymmetrical accessories, flowing shapes in furniture. 3.

Tactile Walls is an interior trend where texture, relief and material experience take center stage. Wall coverings gain more depth and invite you not just to look, but to truly experience the space.

Although the name is relatively new, the trend aligns with a broader development in which natural materials, craftsmanship and quality are becoming increasingly important. That's why we expect texture to play a lasting role in interior design.

Think of textile wall coverings, grasscloth, relief wallpaper, mineral structures, suede-like finishes and acoustic wall coverings. It's precisely the material experience that takes center stage.

Yes. Tactile Walls is not a living style, but a way to add more warmth, depth and character. Therefore, the trend fits just as well within Modern Heritage, Japandi as in a minimalist interior.

On the contrary. Texture mainly adds nuance instead of extra color or pattern. This keeps an interior looking calm, while it does gain more depth and character.

Some materials do more than just beautify an interior. High-quality textile wall coverings and certain acoustic wall coverings can, depending on the material composition, also contribute to a more pleasant sense of space and greater living comfort.

Luxury wallpaper adds texture, depth and character, making a space feel richer and more layered than paint alone.

Yes. Wallpaper is making a huge comeback. Natural materials, textile textures and panoramic designs are especially popular in luxury interiors.

Not always. Although the purchase price is sometimes higher, quality wallpaper often has a longer lifespan and adds more atmosphere and experience to your interior.

Certain wall coverings, such as textile and acoustic wallpaper, can contribute to softer and more comfortable acoustics.

Yes. Nowadays there are wall coverings for virtually every space, from living rooms and bedrooms to home offices and bathrooms. Pay close attention to the quality of the wallpaper you wish to purchase.

Because wall coverings add warmth, texture and character and give an interior a more exclusive appearance.