The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Wallpaper Type for Your Home

When it comes to transforming your walls, wallpaper is one of the easiest ways to bring personality, color, and texture into your space. But here’s the thing, not all wallpaper is the same. Between pre-pasted wallpaper, peel and stick wallpaper, and non-pasted wallpaper, how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s break it down so you can choose with confidence.

Peel and Stick Wallpaper: The Easy Option

If you love a quick project (and maybe like to change your mind often), peel and stick wallpaper is your best friend. Think of it like a giant sticker—just peel off the backing and smooth it onto your wall. No messy glue, no extra tools.

Best For:

• Renters who can’t commit to permanent changes

• Accent walls and small spaces

• Quick weekend makeovers

Good to Know:

It’s removable, but not always reusable. Smooth, clean walls work best. If your walls have texture, peel and stick might not adhere.

Pre-Pasted Wallpaper: Just Add Water

Pre-pasted wallpaper comes with the adhesive already applied—you just activate it with water. It’s less messy than traditional glue wallpaper but still feels like a more “classic” installation.

Best For:

• Larger wall projects where peel and stick may not hold up

• DIYers who want something sturdy but manageable

• Homes where you want a more permanent feel without hiring a pro

Good to Know:

You’ll need a little prep space (like a long table or clean floor) to dampen the paper before applying. Removal is possible but usually requires some effort.

Non-Pasted Wallpaper: The Traditional Choice

This is the old-school standard—no adhesive is included, so you’ll need wallpaper paste or glue. It takes more time and a bit of skill, but the result is strong, seamless, and long-lasting.

Best For:

• Permanent installations

• High-traffic areas where durability matters

• Permanent homes, where you will want the design to last years

Good to Know:

Professional installers often prefer this type for a flawless finish. It’s the most durable, but also the most labor-intensive to remove.

Which Wallpaper Type Should You Choose?

• Want easy and removable? Go with peel and stick.

• Want a balance of easy install and durability? Try pre-pasted.

• Want a permanent, professional finish? Choose non-pasted.

At Dyes Happy, I love creating designs that bring your home to life. Whether you’re looking for coastal bohemian wallpaper, bold abstract wallpaper, or modern floral wallpaper. No matter which type you choose, there’s a perfect way to make your walls your own.

A Beginner’s Guide to Spoonflower Fabrics and What to Make With Them

When you’re scrolling through Spoonflower, it’s easy to get lost in all the gorgeous designs (hello, endless inspiration!). But once you fall in love with a print, the next big question is: which fabric should you choose? Different fabrics shine for different projects, and knowing which one to pick makes all the difference.

Here’s a quick guide to some of the my favorite Spoonflower fabrics and what they’re perfect for.

Petal Signature Cotton: Everyday Favorite

Cotton is lightweight, breathable, and easy to sew—perfect for beginners and seasoned makers alike.

Best Projects:

• Quilts and quilt backings

• Everyday tops, skirts, or dresses

• Pillowcases and napkins

• Tote bags

Linen Cotton Canvas: Sturdy & Stylish

This fabric blends softness with durability. It has a crisp hand but softens beautifully after washing.

Best Projects:

• Throw pillows and cushion covers

• Table runners and placemats

• Tote bags and aprons

• Upholstery for light-use furniture

Organic Cotton Sateen: Smooth & Luxe

With its subtle sheen and soft drape, organic cotton sateen adds a little luxury without being fussy.

Best Projects:

• Bedding and duvet covers

• Curtains with a soft drape

• Blouses and dresses

• Baby blankets and accessories

Performance Velvet: Plush & Durable

This one’s a showstopper. Rich, soft, and perfect for pieces that need both beauty and durability.

Best Projects:

• Upholstery and headboards

• Floor cushions and poufs

• Heavyweight curtains

• Accent pillows

Modern Jersey: Soft & Stretchy

A dream for clothing! It’s lightweight with a nice stretch and bounce.

Best Projects:

• Leggings and yoga wear

• T-shirts and dresses

• Infinity scarves

• Baby clothes

Lightweight Cotton Twill: Everyday Home Projects

This is a go-to for household sewing—it’s versatile, durable, and still easy to work with.

Best Projects:

• Tablecloths and napkins

• Curtains and café panels

• Aprons

• Tote bags

Dogwood Denim: Durable & Classic

A sturdy fabric with a bit of stretch depending on weight, denim is made for hard-wearing projects.

Best Projects:

• Jackets and skirts

• Tote bags and backpacks

• Upholstery accents

• Aprons

Essex Linen: Textured & Timeless

A cotton/linen blend with beautiful drape and texture—loved by quilters and sewists for its natural look.

Best Projects:

• Quilts and quilt backings

• Table linens and napkins

• Lightweight curtains

• Tote bags

Minky: Cozy & Plush

Ultra-soft with a fuzzy texture, perfect for comfort projects.

Best Projects:

• Baby blankets and quilt backing

• Cozy throws

• Plush toys

• Winter accessories (scarves, hats)

Why Fabric Choice Matters

Choosing the right fabric isn’t just about how it feels, it’s about how it will live in your home or wardrobe. A quilt in velvet? Not so much. Upholstery in thin cotton? Probably not going to last. Picking the fabric that matches the project makes your finished piece look more professional and last longer.

At Dyes Happy, I design with versatility in mind, whether you’re making a statement wall, a set of pillows, or a new dress, there’s a fabric that fits the project and brings my prints to life. There are