What Can I Do With A Wallpaper Border?

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Wallpaper Borders and Wallpaper Trims

When it comes to decorating, wallpaper borders and wallpaper trims have endless possibilities. They can enhance wallcoverings, accentuate windows and doors, give walls proportion, and instantly elevate the look of any room. Few design tools are as versatile or effective as a well-placed border. With wallpaper borders, adding personality and style to your home has never been easier.

Kitchen wallpaper borders can introduce a country feel or a bold pop of color, while bedroom wallpaper borders often create a warm, inviting atmosphere. In bathrooms, borders can be playful or elegant, helping tie together tiles and fixtures. No matter your space, wallpaper borders offer a simple way to put your personal stamp on the design.

kitchen table in front of wall with wallpaper border
bedroom walls with traditional wallpaper border near the ceiling

20 Creative Ideas for Using Wallpaper Borders

  1. Add a designer touch by using a wallpaper border as a chair rail about 30 inches from the floor.
  2. Add depth to a chair rail by applying a border to a 1.5-inch board and attaching it to the wall.
  3. Emphasize wood molding with a complementary wallpaper border.
  4. Create architectural detail by framing doors and windows. For wide, flat molding, cut a thin strip from a decorative element and apply around the outside edge.
  5. Use kitchen wallpaper borders to trim window shades, containers, and shelves for a coordinated look.
  6. Change the feel of a doorway by overlapping vertical and horizontal strips to visually heighten or widen the frame.
  7. Highlight your fireplace with a border above the mantel or around the perimeter.
  8. Add character to overlooked areas like a bar or kitchen counter with a bold wallpaper trim.
  9. Refresh bathroom or kitchen cabinets with a decorative wallpaper border.
  10. Apply borders along the ceiling line or down wall corners for a unique design effect.
  11. Around doors or windows, overlap corners or miter them with a 45-degree cut for a clean finish.
  12. Accent stairways, soffits, or dormers with coordinated wallpaper borders.
  13. Trim the edge of an open shelf with a decorative border piece cut to fit its width.
  14. Break up large wall areas by using a border between two wallcoverings.
  15. Create a headboard with bedroom wallpaper borders for a warm and personal touch.
  16. Frame alcoves, mirrors, or foyers with patterned borders for added impact.
  17. Visually lower a ceiling by placing a wallpaper border partway down the wall.
  18. Make your own borders by cutting a favorite floral or striped wallpaper into strips.
  19. Create contrast on stair risers by applying a patterned wallpaper border to each step for a playful accent.
  20. Define an accent wall by framing it with a coordinating border to set it apart from the rest of the room.

Pro Tips for Applying Wallpaper Borders

  • When applying borders to a slick surface, lightly sand the area first to improve adhesion.
  • When applying borders over a vinyl wallpaper, use a vinyl-to-vinyl adhesive for best results.

Explore Our Wallpaper Borders.

← Previous
How To Choose A Wallpaper Pattern
Table Of Contents
How To Wallpaper
Next →
How To Choose A Wallpaper Type