If you have ever thought about getting wallpaper but backed out because of horror stories about difficult installations, peeling corners, or misaligned patterns, you are not alone.
Many homeowners hesitate to make this stylish upgrade due to misconceptions and avoidable mistakes. But here’s the secret: wallpaper murals are easier to work with than you think—IF you do it right!
From royal palaces in India to modern Scandinavian homes, wallpapers have long been a game-changer in interior décor. Yet, first-time buyers often fall into common traps that can turn an exciting makeover into a frustrating experience.
Let’s uncover these wallpaper mistakes (so you don’t make them!) and ensure your space transforms seamlessly.
Are Wallpaper Myths Holding You Back? Let’s Bust Them!
1. Guessing Instead of Measuring – A Costly Misstep
How to choose wallpaper? One of the biggest (and most expensive) mistakes is estimating rather than measuring your wall dimensions. A slight miscalculation can lead to wastage, mismatched patterns, or incomplete coverage—all of which can ruin the final look.
How to Avoid It:
- Use a measuring tape to get exact width and height (including doors, windows, and uneven spaces).
- Always order extra (about 10% more) to cover mistakes, adjustments, or future touch-ups.
NOTE: Don’t rely on generic room-size guides! Walls often have slight variations, so measure twice to be sure.
2. Choosing the Wrong Material for Your Space
Not all wallpapers are created equal! A beautiful wallpaper in the showroom may not suit your space if you choose the wrong material.
Common Mistakes:
- Using paper-based wallpaper in high-humidity areas like bathrooms or kitchens, where moisture can cause peeling.
- Picking peel-and-stick wallpapers for textured walls—resulting in air bubbles and poor adhesion.
- Ignoring washability in high-traffic areas like kids’ rooms or dining spaces.
How to Avoid It:
- For humid spaces: Opt for vinyl-based or waterproof wallpapers.
- For textured walls: Choose fabric-backed or thick vinyl wallpapers that adapt better.
- For easy maintenance: Select washable or scrubbable materials for areas prone to dirt or stains.
NOTE: Not sure which material suits your room? Test a sample before committing to a full roll!
3. Ignoring the Lighting in Your Room
Lighting changes how wallpaper looks—a deep navy blue may look stunning in a showroom but appear almost black in dim lighting.
Common Mistakes:
- Choosing dark colors for small, poorly lit rooms, making them feel smaller.
- Using glossy finishes in bright spaces, leading to harsh reflections and glare.
- Ignoring natural vs. artificial light and how it affects the wallpaper’s undertones.
How to Avoid It:
- For dark rooms: Pick light-reflecting colors like beige, pastels, or soft whites.
- For bright rooms: Matte or textured finishes work best to prevent excessive shine.
- Test a swatch at different times of the day before finalizing your wallpaper.
NOTE: If your wallpaper has metallic elements, place a light source nearby to enhance the shimmer without overpowering the space.
4. Overlooking Pattern Repeat & Alignment
Pattern mismatch is a first-timer’s nightmare! Some wallpapers have intricate designs that require precise alignment for a seamless look.
Common Mistakes:
- Not accounting for pattern repeat, leading to gaps or misaligned designs.
- Cutting wallpaper without considering how the pattern flows from one strip to another.
- Using wallpapers with large-scale prints in small rooms, making the space feel cluttered.
How to Avoid It:
- Check the pattern repeat measurement (usually mentioned on the wallpaper roll).
- Plan where each panel will start and end before cutting.
- If your space is small, opt for simple, continuous patterns rather than large, bold motifs.
NOTE: Geometric and floral designs are tricky—if unsure, go for textured or solid wallpapers for a foolproof finish.
5. Rushing the Installation Without Preparation
Wallpapers don’t just “stick and stay.” Proper wall prep is crucial for a long-lasting application.
Common Mistakes:
- Applying wallpaper over dusty, dirty, or peeling walls, leading to poor adhesion.
- Ignoring the importance of priming before application.
- Skipping air bubble removal, resulting in an uneven finish.
How to Avoid It:
- Clean the walls thoroughly and let them dry before applying wallpaper.
- If the surface is rough, sand it down or apply a primer.
- Use a squeegee or smoothing tool to press out air bubbles as you go.
NOTE: If you’re a beginner, start with a small wall or corner before tackling a large area!
6. Choosing a Wallpaper Based on Trend Over Personal Style
It’s tempting to follow Instagram trends, but what’s popular today may feel outdated tomorrow. More importantly, your home should reflect your personality, not just trends.
Common Mistakes:
- Choosing an overly bold or trendy print that you might get tired of quickly.
- Ignoring your existing furniture and décor, leading to a mismatch.
- Not considering how the wallpaper will age with time.
How to Avoid It:
- Pick designs that resonate with your style, not just what’s trending.
- If you love bold prints, use them on one feature wall rather than the entire room.
- Consider timeless patterns like textured neutrals, subtle florals, or classic geometrics.
NOTE: Before finalizing, ask yourself, “Will I love this design five years from now?” If unsure, go for a more versatile option.
Make Your Wallpaper Mural a Dream, Not a Disaster!
Your walls deserve a makeover that looks beautiful, lasts long, and truly feels like ‘you’. By avoiding these common wallpaper mistakes, you can enjoy a hassle-free, high quality wallpaper experience that transforms your space into an elegant haven.
Ready to create magic on your walls? Buy wallpaper from our premium collection and give your space the glow-up it deserves!