How to Add Texture to Furniture Using Paintable Wallpaper
Paintable wallpaper is one of the most effective techniques for adding texture and dimension to furniture — and it’s more achievable than most people think. This step-by-step guide walks you through the full process, from choosing your wallpaper to the final painted finish.
What You’ll Need
- Paintable wallpaper in your chosen texture
- Wallpaper paste or strong PVA adhesive
- Smoothing tool or wallpaper brush
- Sharp craft knife and cutting mat
- Metal ruler
- Fine-grit sanding pad (180–220 grit)
- Bonding primer (for laminate or high-gloss surfaces)
- Mineral paint in your chosen colour
- Quality furniture painting brush or foam roller
- Sealer or topcoat
- New cabinet handles
Step 1: Choose Your Texture
Select a paintable wallpaper texture that suits the style of your piece and your interior. For a coastal Australian look, linen weave and grasscloth-effect textures are beautiful. For a more contemporary feel, geometric patterns work well. For a classic or vintage piece, damask or floral motifs add character.
Consider the scale of the texture relative to the size of your drawer fronts or panels — a large pattern can look overwhelming on small drawers, while a subtle texture works across all sizes.
Step 2: Prepare the Surface
Clean the furniture surface thoroughly with a damp cloth and mild degreaser. Remove any wax, grease or dust. Lightly sand with 180–220 grit sandpaper to give the adhesive something to grip, then wipe away all dust.
For laminate or very smooth surfaces, apply a coat of bonding primer and allow to dry fully before proceeding.
Step 3: Measure and Cut the Wallpaper
Measure each drawer front or panel carefully. Cut the wallpaper slightly larger than needed — about 5–10mm extra on each side — so you have room to trim precisely once it’s adhered.
For a chest of drawers, cut one piece per drawer. If your wallpaper has a pattern repeat, plan your cuts so the pattern aligns consistently across all drawers.
Use a sharp craft knife and metal ruler for clean, straight cuts. A blunt blade will tear the wallpaper rather than cut it cleanly.
Step 4: Apply the Adhesive
Apply wallpaper paste or PVA adhesive evenly to the furniture surface — not the wallpaper. Work one drawer front at a time so the adhesive doesn’t dry before you position the wallpaper.
Apply the adhesive right to the edges of the surface. Missed edges are the most common cause of wallpaper lifting later.
Step 5: Position and Smooth the Wallpaper
Carefully position the wallpaper on the adhesive surface. Start from the centre and smooth outward toward the edges using a smoothing tool or wallpaper brush, working out any air bubbles as you go.
Take your time with this step — once the adhesive starts to set, repositioning becomes difficult. If you get a stubborn air bubble, use a pin to pierce it and smooth flat.
Step 6: Trim the Edges
Once the wallpaper is smooth and well-adhered, use a sharp craft knife and metal ruler to trim the edges flush with the furniture surface. Work slowly and use a fresh blade for the cleanest cut.
Allow the wallpaper to dry completely before painting — at least 24 hours, longer in humid conditions. The wallpaper must be fully dry and firmly adhered before you apply paint.
Step 7: Paint Over the Wallpaper
Once fully dry, apply your first coat of mineral paint directly over the wallpaper. Use a quality furniture brush and work the paint into the texture, making sure it gets into all the recesses of the pattern.
Allow to dry fully, then apply a second coat. The texture will show through beautifully — the raised pattern creates subtle shadows that give the surface real depth and dimension.
Step 8: Seal and Protect
Apply a sealer or topcoat over the painted wallpaper for protection, especially on drawer fronts and other high-touch surfaces. Allow to cure fully before reassembling the furniture.
Step 9: Add New Handles
The final step — and often the most satisfying. Add your new cabinet handles and step back to admire the result. The combination of textured wallpaper, mineral paint and handmade handles creates a piece that looks completely bespoke.
Troubleshooting
Wallpaper is lifting at the edges: Apply a small amount of PVA adhesive under the lifted edge with a fine brush, press flat and allow to dry under a weight.
Air bubbles appearing after drying: Pierce with a fine pin, apply a small amount of adhesive, and smooth flat.
Paint is soaking into the wallpaper unevenly: This is normal on the first coat — the wallpaper is absorbent. Apply a second coat once the first is fully dry.
Related Guides
- What Is Paintable Wallpaper and How Do You Use It on Furniture?
- How to Use Mineral Paint on Furniture
- How to Choose Cabinet Handles for Painted Furniture
