Wrapping Paper Wallpaper: The Festive Decor Hack Your Home Needs!

If you’ve ever stared at your blank walls during the holiday season and thought, 'Man, these could use a little cheer,' then you’re not alone. But instead of reaching for traditional gift wrap just to toss it away later, what if I told you that wrapping paper can be repurposed as temporary wallpaper? Yes, we’re talking about the magical marriage of function and festivity known as wrapping paper wallpaper.

In this article, we’ll dive into why this quirky trend is more than just a Pinterest dare, how to pull it off like a pro, and when it’s best to stick with traditional wallpaper. Plus, we’ve got a detailed buying guide so you don’t end up stuck with tacky tinsel prints forever.

Table of Contents

• What Exactly Is Wrapping Paper Wallpaper?
• Why You Might Actually Want to Try It
• The Dos and Don'ts of Applying Wrapping Paper as Wallpaper
• How to Choose the Right Wrapping Paper for Your Walls
• Buying Guide: Top Picks for Wrapping Paper-Worthy Wall Art
• When to Stick with Real Wallpaper
• Final Thoughts on Wrapping Up Style

What Exactly Is Wrapping Paper Wallpaper?

You read that right — wrapping paper isn’t just for gifts anymore! Wrapping paper wallpaper refers to using gift wrap or similar decorative paper materials as a temporary covering for walls, often used for seasonal or event-based decor. Think of it as a DIY-friendly, budget-conscious alternative to permanent wallpaper or wall decals.

Why You Might Actually Want to Try It

Here are just a few reasons why wrapping paper wallpaper deserves a spot in your home decor toolbox:

• Budget-Friendly: Most wrapping paper costs less than $1 per sheet, making it a fraction of the cost of real wallpaper.
• Seasonal Swaps: Swap out your wall coverings for different holidays or events without breaking the bank or damaging your walls.
• Eco-Chic: Repurpose leftover wrapping paper from birthdays and holidays — no guilt, just glam.
• Temporary Perfection: Ideal for renters or anyone who loves changing things up without long-term commitment.

The Dos and Don'ts of Applying Wrapping Paper as Wallpaper

Before you grab that roll of Santa print paper and a glue stick, here’s what you need to know to avoid a sticky (literally) situation:

Do	Don’t
Use acid-free glue sticks or removable double-sided tape	Use regular glue or tape that will peel paint
Layer multiple sheets for a collage effect	Overlap too much; leave a tiny gap to avoid buckling
Seal with a clear coat spray for durability	Apply directly to textured walls without testing first

How to Choose the Right Wrapping Paper for Your Walls

Not all wrapping paper is created equal. Some tear easily, some fade in sunlight, and others just look… well… cheap. Here's what to look for when choosing wrapping paper for wall decoration:

• Weight: Go for heavier-weight papers (like metallic or kraft-backed varieties) that won’t crease easily.
• Finish: Matte finishes tend to look more sophisticated, while glossy or foil ones add a punch of pizzazz.
• Pattern Size: Larger patterns work better on walls than small repeating motifs which can get lost in scale.
• Theme: Match the paper theme to the room’s vibe — playful polka dots for kids' rooms, elegant golds for formal spaces.

Buying Guide: Top Picks for Wrapping Paper-Worthy Wall Art

If you're convinced but unsure where to start, here’s a curated list of wrapping papers that work especially well as wall décor. We've broken them down by type, price point, and recommended usage.

Product Name	Material Type	Price Range	Best For	Special Features
Kraft & Gold Foil Gift Wrap	Heavyweight Kraft + Foil	$0.99–$1.50/sheet	Modern nurseries, teen rooms	Scratch-resistant foil finish
Sustainable Recycled Paper Roll	Recycled Brown Kraft	$0.85/sheet	Minimalist or eco-friendly homes	Eco-certified, biodegradable
Holiday Glitter Wrap	Glitter-coated synthetic paper	$1.20–$1.80/sheet	Festive living rooms, dining areas	Sparkle that doesn’t shed
Vintage Print Wrap Set	Matt finish, cotton fiber blend	$1.00/sheet	Retro bedrooms, family rooms	Vintage botanical, typewriter, and travel designs
Kids’ Cartoon Theme Rolls	Lightweight coated paper	$0.60/sheet	Children’s playrooms, bedrooms	Wipe-clean surface, non-toxic ink

When to Stick with Real Wallpaper

While wrapping paper wallpaper is fun and flexible, there are times when investing in actual wallpaper makes more sense:

• Long-Term Use: If you want the design to stay put for more than a few weeks, go for peel-and-stick or paste-the-wall options.
• High-Moisture Areas: Wrapping paper isn’t moisture-resistant, so avoid kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms.
• Formal Interiors: In upscale or professionally designed spaces, real wallpaper lends a polished, intentional look.

Final Thoughts on Wrapping Up Style

Whether you're preparing for a birthday party, decking the halls for Christmas, or just looking to spice up your rental apartment, wrapping paper wallpaper is an easy, affordable way to bring personality to your space without committing to anything permanent.

It’s perfect for experimenting with bold colors, trying out new styles, or simply getting creative with what you already have around the house. So next time you're left with extra wrapping paper after the holidays, think twice before recycling it — your walls might just thank you.

Happy decorating, and remember: the best decor is the one that makes you smile every time you walk into the room.