Differences between wallpaper, tapestry and murals

Tapestry, wallpaper, mural... It is sometimes difficult to differentiate these terms, especially when making an online purchase where it is impossible to feel the different textures.

Since we often receive questions on this topic, today we are presenting a comprehensive article on the differences between tapestry and wallpaper.

Tapestry

The art of tapestry has existed since antiquity, primarily used to decorate temples and palaces of the Romans. Comparing ancient techniques to those of today, tapestry was once handmade by a tapissier, whereas it is now factory-made. The result remains the same: it is a fabric created by interlacing threads.

Its main advantage lies in its quality. As tapestry is a textile, its resistance, durability, and quality are superior to standard wallpaper. Consequently, tapestry is much more expensive and thus less accessible to everyone.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper, on the other hand, traditionally consisted of printing a pattern or a solid color on thin paper. This paper then had to be glued to the wall with appropriate adhesive.

The main advantage of wallpaper is its price. Indeed, since it can now be factory-made, it is much less expensive than tapestry. However, it is more difficult to install and less durable, notably because the paper used is very thin. It is even advised not to install it in a high-traffic room.

Fortunately, there are now different types of wallpaper that are much more resistant and durable, while remaining more accessible than traditional tapestry.

Pre-pasted wallpaper

Similar to traditional wallpaper, this wallpaper is easier to install. Since the adhesive is already applied to the paper, simply dip it in water to activate the glue. This product is suitable for long-term installation as its removal may leave marks on the wall. Moreover, this type of wallpaper is very affordable.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper

Printed on self-adhesive vinyl, this product is versatile and easy to install, leaving no marks upon removal. Furthermore, self-adhesive vinyl is thicker than paper, which makes it easier to apply. Still affordable, self-adhesive vinyl is the preferred choice for short-term installations or for renters.

Finally, for both tapestry and wallpaper, there are 2 types of visuals: patterns and murals. A pattern, as its name indicates, is a repetition of a design. In contrast, a mural represents a single image, for example, a photograph or a work of art.

 

At Décor Imprimé, we have chosen to offer wallpaper printed on self-adhesive vinyl for all the advantages it presents:

• Repositionable during installation
• Easy to install
• Leaves no residue upon removal

Our wallpapers are not sold in rolls, unlike most wallpaper manufacturers. We made this choice to avoid waste and thus offer you the most affordable product possible. This way, you only pay for the surface you need to cover.

We also offer 2 vinyl finishes: smooth and textured. Having the same properties, it is an aesthetic choice. For more details, visit our web page dedicated solely to the different materials we offer.
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Sources:
https://www.aufildescouleurs.com/content/53-papier-peint-classique-traditionnel
https://decormonmur.ca/les-differences-entre-le-papier-peint-et-la-murale/
https://papier-peint.ooreka.fr/astuce/voir/127254/papier-peint-et-tapisserie-quelle-difference
https://jardinage.lemonde.fr/dossier-1317-differents-types-papier-peint.html
https://www.decoweb.com/conseils_produits_papier_peint.php
https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tapisserie#La_tapisserie_dans_l'Antiquit%C3%A9

Now that you've mastered the differences, it's time to choose! Discover our collection of peel-and-stick murals and wallpapers — easy installation without glue, damage-free removal. Hundreds of designs by Quebec artists, including wall decals and window films.