When choosing wallpaper, the pattern and color often get most of the attention. But the material itself—its texture and finish—plays a huge role in the final look and feel of a room. The surface of a wallpaper can be smooth, bumpy, soft, or woven, and each type has its own characteristics, benefits, and best uses. Understanding these differences is key to selecting a wallpaper that not only looks good but also functions well for your space and lifestyle. This guide will walk you through some of the most common materials.

Embracing Natural Materials: Grasscloth and Cork

For those who want an organic, earthy feeling, natural wallpapers are an excellent option. Grasscloth is made from hand-woven strands of natural fibers, such as jute, seagrass, or bamboo, which are backed with paper. This process means each roll is unique, with subtle variations in color and texture. It offers a wonderful tactile quality but is quite delicate and can be difficult to clean, making it best for low-traffic areas like dining rooms or home offices.

Cork wallpaper has a similarly natural appeal, made from thin sheets of cork bark. It has a warm, mottled appearance and provides some sound-insulating properties, which is a nice secondary benefit. Like grasscloth, it requires a gentle hand and isn't suited for humid environments like bathrooms.

The Workhorse of Wallpapers: Vinyl

Vinyl is one of the most popular and practical materials available. When exploring the different types of wallpaper, you'll find vinyl options are plentiful. This is because it is highly durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture. These qualities make it a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways—areas that see a lot of activity. Vinyl wallpapers come in a huge range of styles. Some are smooth, while others are embossed with a raised texture to mimic the look of wood, stone, or fabric, offering both visual interest and practicality.

A Touch of Opulence: Flocked and Beaded

For a truly luxurious feeling, specialty papers like flocked and beaded options stand out. Flocked wallpaper has a velvety, raised pattern made from fibrous particles that feel soft to the touch. It has a very traditional and formal appearance, often used for a high-end wallpaper design interior in formal living rooms or as a dramatic feature wall.

Beaded wallpaper takes opulence a step further by incorporating tiny glass beads into its surface. These beads catch the light beautifully, giving the wall a subtle shimmer. Both flocked and beaded papers are delicate and expensive, reserved for spaces where they can be appreciated without being subjected to wear and tear.

Contemporary Choices: Non-Woven and Removable

Modern innovations have made wallpapering much more user-friendly. Non-woven wallpapers are made from a blend of synthetic and natural fibers, which makes the material breathable and tear-resistant. They are known for being much easier to install and remove than traditional papers. A soft, non-woven wallpaper design for bedroom wall can foster a restful atmosphere. For a professional yet stylish wallpaper design for office, a durable non-woven or vinyl option is a smart choice. Removable, or peel-and-stick, wallpapers are typically vinyl-based and offer the ultimate convenience for renters or those who enjoy frequent decor changes.