Frequently Asked Questions
Wallpaper Reproduction FAQs
What's the first step in recreating wallpaper designs, how do I get started?
Before we can offer a quote we will need to see the actual wallpaper. It doesn't have to be a high quality photo - a simple snapshot from your mobile phone is enough for us to get an idea of the scope, size and complexity of your unique project.
Do I need an original sample/piece of the wallpaper in order to replicate the pattern/design?
While we do recommend scanning original samples, wallpapers can also be recreated from a photograph.
You can learn more about this process in our article How to Reproduce Existing Wallpaper Designs
What's the typical turnaround time for a wallpaper reproduction project?
Recreating wallpaper is a fairly involved process which includes scanning, digital restoration and creativity from a skilled technician, not to mention color matching, printing samples. Projects always vary by complexity and the level of preparedness that each client brings to the table, so turnaround ranges as follows:
Basic Restoration (Few colors, simple design): 2-4 weeks
Moderate Restoration (4-6 colors, detailed artwork): Average 5-7 weeks
Historic Restoration (Match an existing installation): At least 8 weeks for accuracy and color matching
What's the difference between wallpaper recreation and restoration?
Wallpaper recreation is the art of restoring a wallpaper that is discontinued or out of print. This can be done from an original sample or photo.
Wallpaper restoration is a service we provide to fix incomplete or damaged samples, where some creativity is needed to fill in the the missing sections of the wallpaper design or pattern.
What is the pricing for wallpaper reproductions? Is it based on size, complexity, or other factors?
For pricing we always look at:
1. The condition/quality of the original sampleA piece which is damaged, dirty or incomplete will require more design hours than a pristine copy.
2. The number of colors and importance of accurate matching Since each color must be separated, each additional color adds to production time. If color matching is critical, this will also increase the cost as multiple rounds of samples must be printed.
3. Complexity of the designThe size and intricacy of the wallpaper will determine just how difficult it will be for our artists to isolate all the shapes and colors.
The best way for us to evaluate your project is to have a visual sample of what you're trying to replicate, even if it's a quick snapshot from your mobile phone we'll be able to let you know the scope and timeframe of the project.
How closely can you match my wallpaper? Will I be able to tell the difference?
It depends on the style of wallpaper you are trying to replicate. There are a number of different methods, including digital printing, block printing, screen printing and gravure printing. The more traditional methods can leave a slightly raised texture from the ink, in digital printing, this will replicated with a pre-fabricated paper/substrate with a raised surface. When the digital ink lays down, it can create a similar effect to traditional and more expensive methods of printing.
It's also important to note that, sometimes, due to the age, exposure to environment, condition of the existing wallpaper, or the original manufacturing process, it might can be difficult to match colors exactly. In these cases, we will match the colors as closely as possible to give an overall similar look.
The exception to this is metallic wallpapers. While we can print on metallic materials (gold, silver, copper), our digital presses do not actually print metallic inks/foils.
Regardless of the project specs, it's our company policy never to print any wallpaper without the you seeing a press proof first (a job ticket must be generated). We only go to press when you 100% confirm your custom press proof/sample.
Can I request custom modifications to the original wallpaper design during reproduction?
Absolutely! We can modify your patterns, change colors and edit the size or placement of your wallpaper design.
How do you handle wallpapers with metallic or textured elements during reproduction?
As a digital print shop we do not use metallic inks. That said, we can isolate all metallic elements and assign them a flat color which can then be passed onto a printshop with the capabilities to print metallic inks.
Damaged, Discontinued or Incomplete Wallpaper FAQs
I need to reproduce a wallpaper that has been damaged by a water, fire or other natural forces. Can you guys help?
Our ability to help depends on the state of the wallpaper. If it is not too damaged and there is an area that can be cleanly sampled then it should not be an issue. Please send us a quick snapshot of the wall in question and we can assess the requirements of your project
I was remodeling my kitchen and uncovered an old wallpaper. Can it be restored?
You'd be amazed just how much of a design can be recovered when there's enough of a reference point. Usually we can reconstruct any pattern as long as over 50% of it is intact.
In cases where most of the design is missing, we will do our best to find the original pattern and supplement with hand drawn design to fill in the pattern. It may not be an exact match but we can make a comparable design that matches what you have.
I only have a few pieces of a wallpaper which do not represent the whole pattern. Can this still be reproduced?
Yes, although the accuracy of the reproduction will depend on how rare the wallpaper is. We can often research and find references online to build off. In cases where this is not possible, our creative team can use references from similar designs to fill in the missing pieces of the design. As mentioned in the previous question, this project is a hybrid of restoration and recreation. We do our best to honor the existing parts while making new sections appear compatible and seamless in the final design
Can I recreate a wallpaper that is currently in print from another company?
Yes, as long as you provide expressed written permission from the publisher/copyright owner.
I would like to reproduce a wallpaper design, but it is discontinued or the company that made it no longer exists. Can you recreate vintage patterns?
Absolutely. In fact it is one of our most requested specialties. Send us a quick image so we can see what you're working with.
Recreating From A Photograph FAQs
I have a high quality image of the wallpaper. Will it be good enough for printing?
Please email us the image to us and we'll let you know how print ready it is.
Below are the recommended guidelines for file preparation from prepress:
- ✓ Image Resolution: Should be at least 200dpi (300dpi for maximum quality)
- ✓ Original image should be focused, not blurry
- ✓ Image cleared of any debris, stains or damage
- ✓ Image is a straight shot to the wall (no angles)
- ✓ All perspectives and distortions corrected
- ✓ Pattern should be made seamless and ready for a repeat
NOTE: We can also reproduce wallpaper from low resolution or poor quality images, by performing any of the above tasks on your photos. Ask about our digita restoration services.
I don't have a sample but I do have access to the wallpaper. Should I take pictures or hire a photographer?
For best possible results we highly recommend paying for a professional photographer to fully capture the detail of your original, with the best lighting and uniformity required to produce a repeatable pattern.
You can save on this expense if you have a decent camera and follow these instructions. This is recommendable for simple designs without too many shapes, linework or colors.
For patterns that are ornate or intricate (Edwardian, Victorian etc) you're probably better off just paying someone to do the job right and save you significant prepress time.
I was clearing out my attic and stumbled across an old family photo with some wallpaper in it. I can't find the design anywhere, would you be able to reprint it?
Yes, although this also depends on the quality of the picture and how difficult the wallpaper is to research. Send us the image and we will let you know how reproduceable it is.
I would like to reprint a wallpaper that has been in a family house for a long time. I don't have a sample nor can I take it off the wall. All I can do is take a picture. Is that enough?
Yes, we can recreate wallpaper based on photos alone, although there are some special considerations and you will either need a professional photographer or have the skills/equipment yourself to caputre the necessary sharpness and resolution. We've posted some useful tips about digitizing wallpaper in our article How to Reproduce Existing Wallpaper Designs
Wallpaper Materials FAQs
What materials do you use for wallpaper printing?
We provide traditional, non-adhesive wallpapers made of fabric-backed vinyl available in over 30 different textures. We also offer peel and stick wallpaper for fast/temporary installations.
Are there any limitations to the size or scale of the wallpaper?
Size limitations will depend on the stock of wallpaper that you choose, but the general capacity for most rolls is 52" wide by 360" (10 yards) long.
How durable is the wallpaper material?
Our wallcovering media is quite durable and has been put through a variety of standardized tests to meet or exceed building code regulations, including fire safety, mold resistance, and VOC emissions.
Can your wallpaper material handle humid environments like bathrooms, kitchens and powder rooms?
As long as the wall itself is free of water damage or mold at the time of installation, our wallpaper materials are designed to last, even in the most humid environments.
Are there any special care instructions for this wallpaper?
Basic dirt and stains can be removed with warm water and a mild soap. Start cleaning from the bottom of the wall to the ceiling and then go from the ceiing down when it's time to rinse.
Do you offer eco-friendly or non-toxic wallpaper materials?
Our Terralon Material contains 31 percent post consumer recycled content. Product contains NO PVC, NO LEAD, NO PLASTICIZERS, NO HEAVY METALS. Contributes to several LEED credits. Terralon can be printed with UV curable, solvent, eco-solvent, or Latex digital inkjet technology. Terralon is also highly “breathable”, meaning that water vapor can transfer freely through the material which aids in the prevention of mold.
Can I choose between matte, glossy, or other finishes for my custom wallpaper?
For a glossy finish we recommend our Luster Wallpaper. We also carry Matte Wallpaper along with over 30 specialty finishes including Canvas, Leather, Paper, and many more.
Can I request custom finishes or textures for the printed wallpaper?
We only provide the finishes which are listed on our Materials Page. For custom textures you'll want to reach out to a printshop that provides embossing services for large format prints.