Can wallpaper be applied to furniture or cabinets?

Yes, wallpaper can be applied to furniture or cabinets, and it can be a creative and cost-effective way to update or transform the look of these items. Using wallpaper on furniture or cabinets allows you to add texture, color, and pattern without the need for a full renovation or expensive new furniture. Here's how to go about it, along with some tips and considerations:

  1. Furniture and Cabinets You Can Wallpaper
  • Dressers and Nightstands: Apply wallpaper to the drawer fronts, sides, or the top of a dresser for a fresh look.
  • Cabinets: Kitchen or bathroom cabinets can be transformed by wallpapering the inside or even the outside of the doors.
  • Bookshelves: Add wallpaper to the back panel of a bookshelf to create a striking background that enhances the items on display.
  • Tables: Apply wallpaper to the top or sides of a table to change its appearance without the need to buy new furniture.
  • Chairs: For upholstered chairs, wallpaper can be used in combination with fabric or placed on the legs or arms for an interesting effect.
  1. Materials to Use for Furniture and Cabinet Wallpapering
  • Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: This type of wallpaper is a fantastic option for furniture and cabinets because it’s easy to apply and remove. It’s perfect for renters or anyone who wants a non-permanent design.
  • Traditional Wallpaper: If you prefer a more classic approach and are okay with a little extra effort, regular wallpaper can also be applied to furniture or cabinets using wallpaper paste.
  • Vinyl Wallpaper: For furniture that may be exposed to moisture, such as bathroom or kitchen cabinets, vinyl wallpaper is a great option due to its durability, moisture resistance, and ease of cleaning.
  1. Preparing the Surface
  • Clean the Surface: Before applying wallpaper, make sure the surface of the furniture or cabinet is clean, smooth, and dry. Remove any dirt, dust, or grease, as these can interfere with the adhesive.
  • Sand Rough Areas: If the furniture or cabinet surface is particularly rough or has imperfections, lightly sand it to ensure a smooth finish for the wallpaper to adhere properly.
  • Prime the Surface: For some surfaces, like raw wood or previously painted furniture, it's a good idea to apply a primer before wallpapering to ensure better adhesion and to prevent any issues with peeling later on.
  1. Applying the Wallpaper
  • Cutting and Measuring: Measure the areas you want to cover (such as cabinet doors, sides of a dresser, etc.) and cut the wallpaper to size, leaving a bit of extra margin for trimming after application.
  • Apply the Wallpaper: Start by applying the wallpaper from the top down or from the center out, depending on the surface. Use a smoothing tool or a dry cloth to eliminate any air bubbles or wrinkles as you go.
  • Align the Pattern: If you're using patterned wallpaper, be sure to align the pattern properly when cutting and applying the strips, especially on larger surfaces.
  • Trim Excess: After applying the wallpaper, use a sharp utility knife or scissors to trim any excess wallpaper along the edges, corners, or around handles.
  1. Sealing and Protecting the Wallpaper
  • Seal the Edges: Once the wallpaper is applied and trimmed, it’s a good idea to seal the edges with a clear adhesive or decorative trim to prevent the wallpaper from peeling or lifting over time.
  • Clear Protective Coat: Especially on furniture that will be frequently used (like dressers, tables, or cabinets), consider applying a clear coat (e.g., polyurethane or lacquer) over the wallpaper to protect it from scratches, stains, or moisture. Choose a finish that suits your style—matte, satin, or glossy.
  1. Pros and Cons of Wallpapering Furniture and Cabinets

Pros

Cons

Affordable and cost-effective compared to buying new furniture or cabinets.

May require more maintenance than traditional finishes, especially with moisture-prone areas.

Easy to customize to fit your style or room décor.

Not always as durable as painted surfaces, particularly in high-traffic areas.

Temporary: Peel-and-stick options can be removed without damaging the surface, ideal for renters.

Edges may lift over time, especially if not sealed properly.

Wide range of patterns, textures, and colors to choose from.

The application can be time-consuming and requires precision to achieve a neat finish.

Can be a fun DIY project that adds personality to furniture or cabinets.

Some furniture surfaces may need more prep work for the wallpaper to adhere effectively.
  1. Best Rooms for Wallpapered Furniture and Cabinets
  • Living Room: Add wallpaper to side tables, bookshelves, or the back of shelving units to enhance your living room decor.
  • Bedroom: Wallpapering a dresser or the back of a headboard can add a personal touch to the bedroom.
  • Kitchen: Apply wallpaper to the backs of open cabinets or drawers, or even the outside of cabinet doors, for a stylish update.
  • Bathroom: Bathroom furniture, such as vanity cabinets or towel storage, can be updated with waterproof vinyl wallpaper, giving the space a fresh look.
  • Kids’ Rooms: Use fun, playful patterns on a nightstand, dresser, or toy storage to create a colorful, engaging environment.

Conclusion:

Wallpapering furniture or cabinets is a creative and easy way to refresh and personalize your space. Whether you're looking to add a bold statement to a room or simply update old furniture, wallpaper can be applied to many types of surfaces, offering a variety of textures, patterns, and finishes. Using peel-and-stick wallpaper makes the process simple and mess-free, while more traditional options may require extra care and time. By properly preparing the surfaces, using the right materials, and sealing the edges, you can achieve a long-lasting and stylish transformation for your furniture and cabinets.

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