Would You Buy Pre-Loved Wallpaper? My Nursery Transformation & Why I’m Shipping Mine to My Sister
I recently took down the cutest wallpaper from Borastapeter in our nursery, and as I peeled it off (surprisingly in one perfect piece!), a thought popped into my head: Would anyone actually buy used wallpaper?
If you're like me and love getting creative while being eco-friendly, this idea of reusing wallpaper might not be so wild after all! Let me share my experience and the pros and cons of giving pre-loved wallpaper a second life. And keep reading until the end—there's an exciting nursery makeover on the horizon!
Why I Removed My Nursery Wallpaper
The wallpaper in my nursery was adorable—a beautiful, high-quality design from Borastapeter. It wasn't cheap, so when it came off in one solid piece, I couldn’t bring myself to just throw it away. I rolled it back up, and honestly, it still looks brand new! There are a few small marks, but they’re wiping off easily. Since I live in a standard new-build home, this wallpaper (cut to size for two walls) would fit perfectly in similar homes built around the same time.
So, rather than trash it, I decided to ship it to my sister, who’s moving into a new house and could use it for her nursery. A fun little recycling project!
But that got me thinking about whether pre-loved wallpaper could be something others might actually want.
The Pros of Using Pre-Loved Wallpaper
1. Cost-Effective
Wallpaper, especially high-end designs, can be expensive. Buying used wallpaper could save you a significant chunk of change while still getting quality materials.
2. Eco-Friendly
Reusing wallpaper is a sustainable option. Instead of contributing to more waste, you're giving a perfectly good product a second life. Plus, recycling decor items is a fun way to be creative without buying new!
3. Already Pre-Cut
If you live in a similar type of home (like my standard new-build), a used wallpaper that’s already been cut to a length might fit your space without much extra effort. In my case, the wallpaper was perfect for two feature walls in my nursery and could easily be repurposed for a single accent wall in another home.
4. Unique Finds
Some wallpapers go out of production, so used wallpaper could be a rare find. Imagine snagging a designer print that's no longer available—talk about a decor win!
The Cons of Using Pre-Loved Wallpaper
1. Potential Wear and Tear
Although my wallpaper came off in great condition, that’s not always the case. Used wallpaper may have some marks, creases, or small imperfections from previous use.
2. Cutting to Fit
Even though my wallpaper was cut for a standard new-build, wall dimensions can vary slightly. This means some trimming might be necessary to make it fit just right, especially if you're working with older homes or custom spaces.
3. Adhesive Woes
Pre-used wallpaper will need new adhesive. Some wallpapers peel off easily (like mine did), but others might leave behind remnants that need extra prep. Reapplying new adhesive could be tricky and time-consuming, so be prepared for that. My wallpaper was not peel and stick, it was put up the traditional way.
4. Limited Quantity
If you fall in love with a particular used wallpaper, keep in mind that what you see is all you get! There might not be enough to do a whole room, so it’s better suited for accent walls or smaller spaces.
My Nursery's Next Chapter: A Bigger Project Awaits
So, why did I take down such cute wallpaper in the first place? Well, I’ve got a much bigger project planned for the nursery. While the previous look was adorable, I’m excited to create something even more special in the space. Stay tuned for the full reveal—it’s going to be a transformation you won’t want to miss!
Final Thought
Reusing wallpaper may not be something you’ve thought of before, but it’s a practical and eco-friendly way to add charm to your space without breaking the bank. While there are a few challenges, it’s an option that’s definitely worth considering, especially if you’re into upcycling and creative DIY projects.
Would you ever consider buying used wallpaper? Let me know in the comments, and be sure to subscribe for more updates on my nursery makeover!
Yes, reusing wallpaper can be safe as long as it's in good condition and free from mold or damage. Just make sure it's properly cleaned and new adhesive is applied for secure installation.
You can measure the dimensions of your wall and compare them to the cut size of the used wallpaper. In standard homes, wallpaper cut to a specific size might work perfectly for feature walls or smaller spaces.
Yes! Used wallpaper may require new adhesive to ensure it sticks properly. Depending on the wallpaper type, you can find adhesives designed for specific materials (like paper or vinyl).
You can gently wipe down pre-loved wallpaper with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove any marks or dust. Avoid soaking the wallpaper to prevent damage.
Always check for wear and tear, any stains or creases, and ensure that there’s enough wallpaper for your project. Ask for clear photos of the wallpaper before buying it, if possible.
