Just finished a wallpaper project? Don’t toss out the leftovers. There are numerous creative ways to repurpose wallpaper scraps, from brightening up everyday objects to creating unexpected focal points. Below, we share 10 ideas.
1. Brighten a Lamp Shade
Revitalizing an old or plain lampshade can save you money and allow you to create a custom piece that complements your decor.
To begin, measure the circumference and height of your lampshade. Cut a piece of wallpaper to these dimensions, plus a small overlap. Use double-sided tape or a thin layer of craft glue to attach the wallpaper to the shade, smoothing out any bubbles as you go.
For a more durable finish, apply a clear, heat-resistant sealant over the wallpaper. This protects the wallpaper from heat exposure and prolongs its life.
2. Add Style to Stairs
Line the risers of your staircase with bold wallpaper patterns to transform it into a stunning focal point. This unexpected addition adds visual interest to an often overlooked area of your home.
When selecting wallpaper for this project, opt for coated or vinyl options that can withstand foot traffic and are easy to clean. Measure each riser carefully and cut the wallpaper to fit, leaving a small margin for error. Use wallpaper paste or a strong adhesive to secure the paper, then add a clear protective coating (if needed) for longevity and easy maintenance.
Chelsea Conrad of One Kings Lane Interior Design agrees that stair risers are an ideal canvas for pattern play: “Stairs can take up significant real estate in a home, and a custom treatment like this brings a tailored, sophisticated finish to an otherwise utilitarian feature. Plus, because you’re dealing with small, discrete areas, even though this project looks ambitious, it’s easily digestible.”
3. Create Templates
Wallpaper scraps can serve as excellent templates for various home decor projects. Cut out shapes, patterns, or designs you like from the wallpaper and use them as guides for painting, stenciling, or even creating custom wall art. This way, you can replicate intricate designs without advanced artistic skills.
Pro Tip: When creating templates from wallpaper scraps for installing new paper around tricky obstacles, use the same approach the TOH crew demonstrated at the Woburn House project: place the scrap over the obstacle—such as a door casing, post, or column—draw a line right around the outline on the paper, then cut with scissors. As one installer put it on set: “That takes all the mystery right out of it.” The result is a precise, custom-fit template you can trace onto your finish piece for a clean installation every time.
You can also use these templates to plan furniture placement or visualize how different patterns might look in a space before committing to a full wallpaper installation. Using wallpaper as a template has another advantage—it allows for multiple reuses, making it a sustainable choice for ongoing creative projects.
4. Craft a Privacy Shade
Create a unique and functional privacy shade using wallpaper scraps. This project is perfect for adding a decorative touch to windows while maintaining your privacy. To make the shade, follow these steps:
- Cut the wallpaper to your window’s dimensions, plus an extra 2 feet in length.
- Fold the paper accordion-style, making sure each fold is even.
- Punch a hole about an inch from the edge on both sides of the folded paper.
- Unfold the shade and reinforce the holes if necessary.
- Wrap and glue the top of the shade around a wooden dowel, then thread string through the holes, knotting at both ends.
- Install screw eyes into the dowel and hang from hooks above your window.
This method also allows for easy adjustments and replacements, so it’s flexible to fit different window sizes and styles.
5. Make Instant Art
Transform your wallpaper scraps into instant wall art for a quick and affordable decor update. For a dramatic effect, we recommend using a large piece of wallpaper as a statement piece. You can also create a gallery wall using smaller scraps in coordinating patterns. To elevate the look, frame your wallpaper art with decorative molding.
This adds visual interest but also gives the appearance of custom, high-end wall panels. Using wallpaper with metallic elements or textured designs adds added depth and sophistication.
6. Wrap Presents
Elevate your gift-giving with uniquely wrapped presents using your wallpaper scraps. The heavier weight and durability of wallpaper make it an excellent alternative to traditional wrapping paper, especially for oddly shaped items.
Choose patterns that complement the occasion or recipient’s taste. For added flair, coordinate your wallpaper gift wrap with handmade tags or bows made from the same material. Add a custom message or a decorative ribbon to complete the bespoke look.
7. Liven Up a Light Switch
Give your light switches a custom update by covering them with wallpaper scraps. To begin, remove the switch plate and place it on top of your chosen wallpaper scrap. Trace around the plate, leaving extra paper to fold over the edges. Cut out the shape and use a craft knife to cut out spaces for the switch and screws carefully. Apply a thin layer of craft glue to the plate and smooth the wallpaper over it, folding the edges to the back. Once dry, reattach the plate to the wall for an instant decor upgrade.
Pro Tip: Wallpaper pro John Dee takes this technique a step further to make switch plates virtually disappear. He roughs up the plate’s surface with 120-grit sandpaper before applying the paper, then holds the scrap against the wall and moves it around until its pattern matches the wallpaper surrounding the switch—so the plate blends seamlessly into the wall.
8. Use as a Photo Mat
Create custom photo mats using wallpaper scraps to add a personal touch to your framed pictures. This works particularly well with subtly patterned or textured wallpapers that complement your photos without overpowering them.
Measure and cut the wallpaper to fit inside your frame, then cut out an opening slightly smaller than your photo. For a professional finish, use a mat cutter or a sharp craft knife and a straight edge. This way, you can coordinate your frames with your room’s decor while showcasing your favorite memories.
9. Back a Glass Tabletop
Add a layer of wallpaper underneath a plain glass coffee table or desk to breathe new life into it. This simple update can dramatically change the look of your furniture without advanced DIY skills.
First, measure the surface of your table and cut the wallpaper to fit, leaving a small margin around the edges. Clean the underside of the glass thoroughly before applying the wallpaper to ensure a smooth finish. For added durability, consider using a clear adhesive film over the wallpaper to protect it from moisture and make cleaning easier.
10. Line Drawers
Add a surprise to your drawers by lining them with colorful or patterned wallpaper scraps. This project works well for both new and old furniture. You can instantly refresh the look of dressers, nightstands, or kitchen cabinets. For the best results, we use pre-pasted vinyl wallpaper because it’s easy to apply and wipe clean.
Measure the inside of your drawer and cut the wallpaper to fit, allowing for a slight overlap on the edges. Moisten the paper according to the manufacturer’s instructions and smooth it into place, working out any bubbles as you go.
Pro Tip: Designer Barb Blair, who regularly transforms estate-sale furniture with leftover wallpaper, recommends using craft adhesive instead of wallpaper paste when lining wood drawers, since paste can soak into the wood. For a polished finish that helps keep the paper in place, she advises adding a few coats of polyurethane over the paper.
