Creative Ways to Use Leftover Wallpaper at Home

We're in another round of home renovations 🤪 So out of nowhere, mismatched rolls of wallpaper from past makeovers surfaced—I didn't even know we had so many 🙃

Out of curiosity and a bit of frugality (why let good stuff go to waste?), I looked at ways people repurpose it. I found lots of interesting ideas 😉 Leaving this here for anyone else in the middle of renovation chores; maybe it will be useful.

1. Inside surfaces of niches, cabinets, and pull-out drawers

This is for anyone who does not want a completely plain interior surface. Wallpaper can make a cabinet, niche, or drawer feel more personal and inviting.

2. Wallpaper as wall art, a poster, or a framed panel

Choose a pattern that highlights one area while still working with the room as a whole.

3. A cheerful collage

A colorful collage can brighten a child's room.

If the wallpaper is neutral, you can add removable stencils based on favorite stories.

4. Outer surfaces of cabinets, boxes, and drawers

Floral patterns and pastel shades can give furniture a soft, Provence-inspired look.

5. A breakfast tray

Wallpaper can replace decoupage paper for a decorative tray. Use a finish appropriate for the tray's intended use, and keep paper and non-food-safe finishes away from food-contact surfaces.

6. Lampshades

Wallpaper can change the look of a lampshade, but use it only on a cool exterior decorative surface when the lamp and shade manufacturer permit it. Paper and glue can be a fire risk near heat.

Do not put wallpaper inside a fixture or near a bulb, wiring, or ventilation openings.

7. Temporary window coverings

Heavy wallpaper is sometimes used as a temporary decorative window covering. It is not a heat barrier or a safe replacement for blinds: paper can warm up, obstruct a window, and create a fire risk near heat sources. Keep it away from stoves, heaters, candles, and electrical appliances.

I'd love to hear other ideas!