How to Choose Wallpaper for a Themed Nursery (e.g., Jungle, Space, Fairy-tale)

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

Creating a nurturing and imaginative space for our little ones is not just about decorating a room—it’s about crafting an environment that inspires growth, creativity, and joy.

As parents and guardians, we hold the brush that paints the backdrop of our children’s earliest memories and milestones. 

This is why selecting the perfect wallpaper for their room is more than a design choice; it’s a loving gesture that sets the stage for their developmental journey.

Hello, I’m Lee Orlian, co-founder of Teepee Joy and an interior designer dedicated to enriching children’s lives through thoughtful, vibrant, and quality decor.

Through my experience, I’ve seen firsthand how the right wallpaper can transform a simple nursery into a world of wonder, stimulating imagination and providing a sense of comfort and belonging.

Choosing wallpaper for your child’s themed nursery—be it a lush jungle, a vast outer space, or a magical fairy-tale kingdom—should be an exciting adventure filled with possibilities.

In this guide, I’ll share insights and tips to help you navigate this delightful process.

 Together, we’ll ensure the walls surrounding your child not only tell a story but also become a canvas for their own stories to unfold.

Crafting Dreams: Choosing the Perfect Theme for Your Nursery

Pinky Rosettes – Kids and Nursery Room Wallpaper by Teepee Joy

Diving into the heart of your nursery’s story begins with selecting a theme that not only sparks joy and creativity but also feels close to your family’s heart.

 This choice is more than just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that nurtures your child’s imagination and growth from the very start.

Whether you’re drawn to the wild and adventurous spirits of the jungle, the boundless wonder of outer space, or the timeless charm of fairy tales, each theme carries the potential to inspire and shape your little one’s early experiences and dreams.

Imagine your child’s delight at being surrounded by the enchanting creatures of the jungle, the stars and planets of space, or the whimsical characters of fairy tales. 

Wallpapers are more than just backgrounds; they’re invitations to adventure, creativity, and wonder.

Choosing a theme that resonates with both you and your child ensures the nursery becomes a cherished space for family memories. It’s where stories come to life, and dreams take flight.

Let us help you create a backdrop that will be the canvas of your child’s developmental milestones, with designs that capture the essence of your chosen theme and bring joy to your family’s everyday moments.

Whispers of Dreams: Selecting Colors and Patterns

Catching Stars – Kids and Nursery Room Wallpaper by Teepee Joy

In the tapestry of a child’s nursery, colors and patterns serve as the whispers of dreams and adventures yet to unfold. 

These elements are far more than just decorative touches; they are the silent storytellers of the room, setting the stage for imagination and exploration.

Choosing the right colors and patterns is a crucial step in enhancing the thematic essence of the nursery. It’s about finding that perfect harmony where each hue and design contributes to a cohesive and inspiring environment.

Whether aiming for the soothing tranquility of a jungle theme with its lush greens and earthy tones, the boundless wonder of a space theme highlighted by deep blues and sparkling accents, or the enchanting allure of a fairy-tale theme with soft pastels and whimsical motifs, each choice paints a part of the larger story.

Guidance for selecting these elements often starts with the theme itself, letting the narrative guide the palette and designs. 

Yet, it’s also essential to consider the room’s overall aesthetic, ensuring that the colors and patterns not only align with the theme but also create a cohesive and visually appealing space.

The goal is to craft an environment that resonates with warmth, comfort, and the spark of creativity.

In this journey, remember that the magic lies in the balance and interplay between colors and patterns. They should complement each other, weaving together a visual landscape that invites curiosity and joy.

Through thoughtful selection, these design elements become the foundation upon which countless stories and adventures will be built, right within the walls of your child’s nursery.

Mastering Measurements: A Simple Guide to Wallpaper

Celestial Bodies – Kids and Nursery Room Wallpaper by Teepee Joy

Embarking on the journey to transform your nursery with wallpaper can feel like a daunting task. 

However, with our straightforward guide, measuring your space and determining exactly how much wallpaper you need becomes a hassle-free part of your decorating adventure.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, ensure you have a tape measure, a notepad, and a calculator handy. Accuracy is key, so take your time with each measurement to ensure the best fit for your space.

Step 2: Measure the Width of Your Walls

Start by measuring the total width of the walls you plan to cover in inches. If you’re wallpapering the entire room, simply add together the width of all four walls. For a single accent wall, measure the width of just that wall.

Step 3: Account for Extra

Once you have the total width, add a few extra inches to your measurement to account for any irregularities or slight miscalculations. This ensures you won’t find yourself short on wallpaper when you’re almost finished with your project.

Step 4: Divide by the Wallpaper Roll Width

Teepee Joy’s wallpaper rolls are available in a standard width of 24 inches. Divide the total wall width (in inches) by 24 to determine how many rolls you’ll need across. For example, if your total wall width is 120 inches, dividing by 24 gives you exactly 5 rolls.

Step 5: Determine Roll Length Needed

Next, measure the height of your walls from floor to ceiling to decide on the roll length. Our wallpapers come in lengths of 6, 8, 10, and 12 feet, allowing you to choose the best fit for your room’s height. If your ceiling is 9 feet high, opt for the 10-foot rolls to ensure full coverage.

Step 6: Calculate the Total Number of Rolls

After determining the number of rolls needed across and the roll length suitable for your wall height, you’ll have a clear picture of what to order.

 Remember to round up to the nearest whole number when calculating the number of rolls across to ensure you have enough material.

Pro Tip: We recommend ordering an extra 10-15% of wallpaper to account for any mistakes or unforeseen issues during installation.

 This is particularly important as slight variations in color may occur between batches, and having extra on hand ensures a seamless finish.

By following these simple steps, you can confidently measure your nursery and order the perfect amount of wallpaper, making your dream nursery a reality with ease and precision.

Seamless Beginnings: Wallpaper Installation Tips

Artful Dogs – Kids and Nursery Room Wallpaper by Teepee Joy

Embarking on the wallpaper installation journey transforms your nursery into a storybook scene filled with charm and wonder.

Here’s how to navigate this process with grace, ensuring a smooth and successful application, whether you’re working with peel-and-stick or traditional wallpaper.

Preparing Your Walls

The foundation of a perfect wallpaper application lies in the preparation of your walls. Ensure they are clean, dry, and smooth. Fill any holes or cracks and sand down any rough spots to create an even surface.

This step is crucial for a seamless finish, aiding in the smooth application and adherence of the wallpaper.

Applying Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Peel-and-stick wallpaper offers a straightforward and forgiving application process. Start at the top of the wall, carefully peeling the backing as you go, and smooth the paper onto the wall from top to bottom.

Use a soft cloth or a squeegee to remove air bubbles and wrinkles as you apply, ensuring the wallpaper adheres smoothly to the wall. The ability to reposition the paper slightly allows for adjustments as needed, making it a user-friendly option for DIY enthusiasts.

Installing Traditional Wallpaper

Traditional wallpaper requires a bit more preparation with adhesive but can result in a durable and long-lasting finish.

According to the product’s instructions, apply a uniform layer of adhesive to the wall or the back of the wallpaper.

Place the paper carefully at the ceiling line and smooth it downwards, using a brush or roller to remove any air pockets and ensure good adhesion to the wall.

Ensuring Perfect Adhesion

After the wallpaper is in place, it’s crucial to allow it time to adhere properly. For peel-and-stick wallpaper, once you’re satisfied with the placement, avoid repositioning to maintain the adhesive’s strength.

Traditional wallpaper needs a dry, stable environment to set correctly, so avoid any direct airflow or heat that could disrupt the drying process.

By approaching the wallpaper installation with careful preparation and attention to detail, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that brings your nursery’s theme to life. 

The process not only enhances the room’s aesthetics but also adds a layer of personality and charm to your little one’s space

Preserving Magic: Maintenance and Care for Nursery Wallpaper

Chilling Leopard – Kids and Nursery Room Wallpaper by Teepee Joy

Ensuring your nursery remains a captivating sanctuary for your little one requires a touch of care.

Our wallpapers are designed not just for beauty and imagination but also for ease of maintenance, ensuring they stay as vibrant and enchanting as the day they were applied.

  • Routine Light Cleaning – Regular, gentle cleaning is the secret to keeping wallpaper in pristine condition. Use a soft, dry cloth to dust the walls lightly. This simple step prevents dust from settling and keeps your nursery wallpaper’s vibrant colors and patterns bright and clear.
  • Spot Cleaning – Accidents happen, especially in a child’s room. For light stains, a damp sponge or cloth dabbed in soapy water can work wonders. Gently pat the area without scrubbing to avoid damaging the wallpaper’s surface. For peel-and-stick options, ensure the adhesive isn’t weakened by too much moisture.
  • Dealing with Tougher Stains – A mild, non-abrasive cleaner can be used sparingly for more stubborn spots. Test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the color or texture of the wallpaper.
  • Avoiding Harsh Chemicals – Harsh chemicals and abrasive brushes are not suitable for wallpaper. They can strip away colors and damage the material, especially for wallpapers in nursery settings, where safety and gentleness are paramount.
  • Long-term Care – Over time, to keep the wallpaper looking fresh, consider rotating decor items or furniture to expose different areas to light evenly. This simple adjustment can help prevent noticeable fading in older wallpapers and keep the room looking balanced and vibrant

 

By following these straightforward care and maintenance tips, you can ensure your nursery’s walls continue to spark imagination and bring joy to your little one’s space for years to come.

FAQ

1.Can I apply peel-and-stick wallpaper if I’ve never done wallpapering before?

Absolutely! Peel-and-stick wallpaper is designed for easy application, making it a great choice for beginners.

 It allows for repositioning and adjustment without damaging your walls, making it forgiving for first-time installers. Just follow the step-by-step guidance provided for the best results.

2.How often should I clean my nursery wallpaper, and what should I use?

To maintain the vibrant look of your wallpaper, a light dusting every couple of weeks is recommended. 

For spot cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soapy water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the wallpaper.

3.Is it possible to remove peel-and-stick wallpaper without damaging the paint underneath?

Yes, one of the benefits of peel-and-stick wallpaper is its ability to be removed easily without leaving residue or damaging the paint beneath.

 It’s perfect for changing themes as your child grows or if you’re in a rental property.

4.Can traditional wallpaper be used in a nursery?

Certainly! Traditional wallpaper can provide a durable and lasting finish for a nursery. 

It requires a bit more effort in terms of application and removal, but with the correct preparation and care, it can add a timeless elegance to your child’s room.

5.How do I know how much wallpaper I need for my nursery?

To calculate the amount of wallpaper required, measure the width and height of each wall you wish to cover. 

Our rolls of peel-and-stick wallpaper come in 24 inches width, so you’ll need to divide the total width of your walls by the 24 inches width of our rolls and round up to the nearest whole number.

Ordering a bit extra is recommended to account for any mistakes or adjustments.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Crafting a themed nursery that evolves with your child is not just about decorating a room; it’s about nurturing their growth, imagination, and dreams.

 The perfect wallpaper sets the stage for countless stories, adventures, and the sweetest memories.

It’s a backdrop to their early years, a canvas for their evolving personalities, and a reflection of the love and thought you’ve poured into creating their very own special space.

As you embark on this delightful journey, remember that the perfect nursery is a blend of beauty, functionality, and warmth.

Our exquisite wallpaper collection at Teepee Joy is designed with this harmony in mind, offering a range of vibrant, imaginative designs that speak to every theme, every dream, and every little one’s unique spirit.

To ensure your vision comes to life just as you imagine, we invite you to explore our collection, where you’ll find designs that spark joy and creativity.

And because we know how important it is to feel confident in your choices, we offer the option to order a swatch of your favorite wallpapers.

This way, you can experience the quality and beauty of our designs up close, making sure they’re just right for your nursery.

If you need more guidance or inspiration, we’re here to help. Schedule a video consultation for personalized advice on selecting and installing the perfect wallpaper to complement your nursery’s theme.

Together, we’ll make sure the space you create is as magical and special as the little one who will call it their own.

Thank you for letting us be a part of your nursery journey. Here’s to creating a space filled with love, laughter, and the magic of childhood.