Challenges of installing grasscloth wallpaper

🌿 Grasscloth wallpaper is cherished for its natural, woven texture and organic beauty. It brings warmth and elegance to any interior. However, while the aesthetic payoff is undeniable, the challenges of installing grasscloth wallpaper can be significant. This article explores the most common difficulties homeowners and installers may face when working with this unique material.

1️⃣ Proper surface preparation

🧽 A flawless wall surface is essential. Even though grasscloth has a textured look, it does not hide imperfections. All existing wallpaper, paint flakes, or dust must be removed.
⚠️ Skipping this step can lead to bubbling, peeling, or a lumpy finish.

2️⃣ Delicate material handling

📦 Grasscloth is often made from natural materials like jute, hemp, or arrowroot. These fibers are fragile and easy to tear. Rough handling can cause creases, frays, or permanent blemishes.

3️⃣ Matching patterns

📐 Due to the handmade nature of grasscloth, rolls may vary slightly in shade and texture. Matching patterns or seams becomes difficult.
🎯 Perfect alignment takes patience and a sharp eye.

4️⃣ Tricky seams and overlaps

✂️ Seams are more noticeable in grasscloth than in printed wallpapers. The uneven edges of natural fibers make clean overlaps harder to achieve.
✅ Precision trimming and dry-fitting are crucial.

5️⃣ Air bubbles and wrinkles

💨 Even experienced installers may struggle with air pockets. Because the material is porous and inflexible, bubbles and wrinkles are hard to correct once set.
🛠 Use a wallpaper brush or smoothing tool gently but firmly to prevent damage.

6️⃣ Corners and trim work

🔁 Grasscloth does not flex like vinyl. Going around corners, windows, or doors often leads to cracking or fraying.
🧵 Every cut must be accurate and clean to maintain a polished look.

7️⃣ Drying time and shrinkage

⏳ Adhesive is applied directly to the wall in most cases. This means drying takes longer, and some materials may shrink slightly as they set.
🔍 Plan for adjustments after hanging.

8️⃣ Maintenance and cleaning

🧹 Grasscloth is not washable. It attracts dust and can stain easily.
⚠️ Water or cleaning products can ruin its texture. Use a dry cloth or vacuum with caution.

9️⃣ Limited durability

🚫 In high-traffic or humid areas, grasscloth can wear down faster than vinyl or coated paper.
💡 Best used in low-moisture, decorative spaces like bedrooms or studies.

Material and manufacturer

Our company works with various manufacturers and suppliers, among them YorkFarrow&ballBrewsterThibautWallquest. After many years of experience, we can confidently say: that materials and experience are the two main keys to high-quality workmanship!

Explore our four main services and make the right decision to start cooperating with us. Choose professionals and get high-quality services. We are proud of the trust of our clients and appreciate mutually beneficial cooperation! Contact us and get to know our approach to each client!

Conclusion

While installing grasscloth wallpaper requires more care and skill than standard wallpaper, the end result is often stunning. If you’re prepared for its challenges—like surface prep, delicate handling, and seam precision—you can transform your space into something elegant and truly unique.