Wallpaper

G. Bruno - Le Tour de la France par deux enfants p052

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KA-Tapete-Beerdigung05

Artichoke wallpaper Morris and Co J H Dearle no borders

Sample Book, L.C. Orrell and Co., Book No. 2, 1906 (CH 18802803-71)

Wallpaper on the wall of the apartment

Wallpaper is a material used in interior decoration to decorate the interior walls of domestic and public buildings. It is usually sold in rolls and is applied onto a wall using wallpaper paste. Wallpapers can come plain as "lining paper" (so that it can be painted or used to help cover uneven surfaces and minor wall defects thus giving a better surface), textured (such as Anaglypta), with a regular repeating pattern design, or, much less commonly today, with a single non-repeating large design carried over a set of sheets. The term "wallpaper" is also sometimes used to describe a digital image used as a background on the screen of a computer, smartphone, or other electronic device.

History

The history of wallpaper dates back to the 16th century in Europe, where it began as an affordable alternative to expensive tapestries and paneling. Early wallpapers featured scenes similar to those depicted on tapestries, and were used primarily in less important rooms. The first known use of wallpaper in the West dates to 1509, in the Renaissance period, on a small space in the Hampton Court Palace in England. As the production techniques improved, wallpaper became more accessible to the middle classes, and by the 18th century, it had become a popular form of decoration among the wealthy in Europe.

Types of Wallpaper

Wallpaper comes in a variety of materials including paper, vinyl, fabric, grasscloth, and metallic (foil). Each material offers different textures and finishes, and the choice of material can significantly affect the final appearance of the wallpaper. Some common types of wallpaper include:

• Vinyl Wallpaper: Made with a paper backing and a vinyl coating. It is durable and easy to clean, making it suitable for kitchens and bathrooms.
• Embossed Wallpaper: Can hide imperfections in the walls and adds texture to the room. It is paintable.
• Foil Wallpaper: Has a metallic finish that reflects light and adds brightness to a room. It requires a smooth wall surface for application.
• Flock Wallpaper: Features patterns with a velvet-like texture and is considered luxurious.
• Grasscloth Wallpaper: Made from natural fibers like hemp, jute, or seagrass, offering a unique texture and an eco-friendly option.

Installation and Removal

The installation of wallpaper requires careful preparation of the walls, including cleaning, smoothing, and sometimes priming the surface. Wallpaper is applied using a specific paste, either pre-applied to the back of the wallpaper or applied to the wall directly. The process can be detailed and requires precision, especially with patterned wallpaper where the pattern must be aligned across the seams.

Removal of wallpaper can be challenging, depending on the type of wallpaper and the method of application. Some wallpapers are designed to be strippable, allowing them to be removed easily without damaging the wall surface. Others may require the use of steamers or solvents to loosen the adhesive before removal.

Environmental Considerations

The production and disposal of wallpaper can have environmental impacts. Some wallpapers are made from natural and renewable resources, which are more environmentally friendly. However, vinyl and certain adhesives used in wallpaper can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. Recycling and proper disposal of wallpaper are important to minimize its environmental impact.

In Popular Culture

Wallpaper has played a significant role in interior design trends throughout history, reflecting the social and economic conditions of the time. It has also appeared in literature and films, often used to symbolize aspects of the characters' lives or the setting.