Wallpaper That Grows With Your Child: A Parent’s Guide

Written by Lee Orlian
Interior designer & co-founder of Teepee Joy.

Imagine stepping into a room that blossoms alongside your child, where the walls are not just barriers but storybooks unfolding with every chapter of their lives. 

From their first wide-eyed giggles to the confident strides of teenage dreams, this space reflects the journey of growing up, infused with magic at every turn.

As the heart behind Teepee Joy, my mission has always been to create enchanting spaces where children’s imaginations can roam free. 

Today, I’m excited to share with you the art of selecting wallpapers that do just that—evolve with your child.

This guide is not just about decorating a room; it’s about weaving a backdrop for your child’s adventures from tot to teen, ensuring their personal haven grows just as they do. 

Join me as we uncover the secrets to choosing wallpapers that adapt through the years, transforming ordinary rooms into extraordinary worlds where every day is an adventure.

The Timeless Charm of Wallpaper: A Canvas of Dreams

Jungle Dream – Kids and Nursery Room Wallpaper by Teepee Joy

Dive into a world where wallpaper transcends its role as mere decor, becoming a vibrant canvas that captures the essence of your child’s growing imagination. 

In this realm, each design is more than just a pattern on the wall—it’s a backdrop to the stories, dreams, and adventures that unfold in the heart of their personal sanctuary.

Selecting the right wallpaper is akin to choosing the setting for your child’s favorite storybook—it sets the scene for every chapter of their young lives. 

It’s about finding those whimsical yet timeless designs that can journey with them from the tender moments of early childhood through to the bold adventures of their teenage years.

By focusing on designs that embody the essence of childhood magic while holding a timeless appeal, we ensure that these walls will not just be a backdrop but a beloved part of their memories.

From the gentle caress of fairytale landscapes to the dynamic energy of outer space adventures, the right wallpaper can nurture their imagination, encouraging growth and exploration in a space that feels uniquely theirs.

Selecting the Perfect Wallpaper

Autumn Strolls – Kids and Nursery Room Wallpaper by Teepee Joy

Finding the right wallpaper is about tuning into your child’s interests and passions. 

Whether their imagination is captivated by fairy tales, dinosaurs, outer space, or magical unicorns, there’s a theme to match every curious mind.

It’s about creating a space that feels both personal and inspiring, a room that can grow and change just as they do.  Material and functionality are also key considerations.

High-quality, self-adhesive fabrics offer ease and flexibility for changing tastes or living situations, while traditional wallpaper options provide a durable solution for those looking for longevity.

Each type is crafted to not only enhance the aesthetic of a room but also to withstand the test of time, making it possible to create a space that’s as practical as it is enchanting.

Practical Tips for Long-Lasting Decor

Black and White Herringbone – Kids and Nursery Room Wallpaper by Teepee Joy

Embarking on the journey of selecting wallpaper brings with it the promise of transforming a simple room into a bastion of imagination and growth.

However, the allure of a beautiful design is just one piece of the puzzle.

The longevity and practicality of your decor choices play a crucial role in ensuring that the chosen wallpaper stands as a testament to countless memories and milestones.

Calculating the correct amount of wallpaper is essential for ensuring that your decor delights and endures

Start by accurately measuring your room’s dimensions and then comparing these measurements with the standard dimensions of wallpaper rolls.

Remember, it’s always better to have a little extra than to find yourself short, especially when working with patterned designs that require matching. Consider ordering samples before making your final decision. 

A sample can offer a true representation of color and texture, helping to avoid any surprises and ensuring that your chosen design truly complements the space.

Furthermore, opting for wallpapers made from durable, easy-to-clean materials can make all the difference in spaces designed for the whirlwind of childhood. 

These materials ensure that the walls can withstand the rigors of playtime and exploration, making them a practical choice for any family looking to blend aesthetics with functionality.

The Joy of Easy Installation

Coral Swirls – Kids and Nursery Room Wallpaper by Teepee Joy

Diving into the world of wallpaper installation might seem daunting at first glance, but it’s a process filled with unexpected simplicity and satisfaction.

Whether you’re considering the modern convenience of peel-and-stick or the classic choice of traditional wallpaper, the journey to transforming your child’s room into a space of wonder and creativity is easier than you might think.

For those embracing the peel-and-stick option, begin by ensuring your wall is clean, dry, and smooth. Measure your space carefully, and plan your layout to minimize waste. 

Starting from the top, peel away the backing as you gently press the wallpaper onto the wall, smoothing out any bubbles or wrinkles with a squeegee—a tool included to help you achieve that perfect finish.

Choosing traditional wallpaper? The process is just as manageable.

After preparing your walls, mix the adhesive according to instructions. Apply the paste to the wallpaper, allowing it to soak in as recommended. 

Carefully position the paper on your wall, using the squeegee to smooth out any air pockets and ensure a seamless adhesion.

In both scenarios, patience and precision are your best friends. Measure twice, cut once, and take your time to align patterns and edges for a professional-looking outcome.

The satisfaction of stepping back to see a beautifully transformed room, brought to life with your own hands, is truly rewarding. This journey is not just about decorating a space; it’s about creating a backdrop for memories and dreams.

FAQ

Q1: How do I measure my walls to ensure I order the right amount of wallpaper?

A: Start by measuring the height and width of your walls in feet or inches. For the width, add all the widths together to get a total combined width. Then, divide this number by the width of the wallpaper roll (often 24 inches). 

Always round up to the nearest roll to ensure you have enough, and consider ordering a little extra for pattern matching and mistakes.

Q2: What’s the difference between peel-and-stick and traditional wallpaper?

A: Peel-and-stick wallpaper is designed for easy application and removal, ideal for renters or those who like to change decor frequently. It adheres directly to the wall without the need for additional adhesives. 

Traditional wallpaper requires paste to adhere to the wall and is best suited for more permanent installations.

Q3: Can I install wallpaper myself, or should I hire a professional?

A: Many people successfully install wallpaper themselves, especially peel-and-stick varieties which are very user-friendly. Traditional wallpaper might require a bit more skill, particularly with pattern matching.

If you’re not comfortable or are dealing with a large or complex space, hiring a professional could be worth the investment.

Q4: Are there wallpaper options that are easy to clean and maintain in a child’s room?

A: Yes, look for wallpapers that specify they are washable or scrubbable. These are designed to withstand cleaning, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or children’s rooms where the walls might get a little more wear and tear.

Q5: Can wallpaper be easily removed, and will it damage my walls?

A: Peel-and-stick wallpaper is specifically designed to be removed without leaving residue or damaging the walls, making it an excellent option for those concerned about wall damage. 

Traditional wallpaper removal can be more challenging and might require special products or techniques, depending on the wallpaper type and how long it has been in place.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Embarking on the journey to select the perfect wallpaper for your child’s room is an exciting adventure, one that merges the worlds of practicality and imagination.

We’ve explored how the right wallpaper can serve not just as decor but as a canvas for your child’s growth, reflecting their personality and evolving with them through the years.

From whimsical patterns that spark joy in their early years to more sophisticated designs that suit their teenage tastes, wallpaper is a versatile element in crafting a nurturing and inspiring space.

As we wrap up this guide, it’s important to remember that creating a space that grows with your child is a process filled with love, creativity, and, sometimes, a bit of trial and error. 

The key is to enjoy every step of the journey, from choosing designs to the moment of transformation when you see your vision come to life on the walls of their room.

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge and inspiration to choose and install the perfect wallpaper, the next step is to begin. Measure your space, browse designs, and imagine the possibilities that lie ahead.

Whether you’re ready to dive in with a DIY installation or seeking further guidance, the path to a beautifully transformed room is just ahead. Let this be your invitation to start creating a magical space where your child can dream, play, and grow.

Explore our collection, order a swatch to see and feel the quality of our designs, or reach out for a consultation to ensure your wallpaper journey is as seamless and joyful as possible. 

Together, let’s turn those dreams into reality, crafting spaces that inspire stories and adventures for years to come.