What Paint Can Go on Over a Paintable Wall Paper?

Background

• Paintable wallpapers are a far from new decorating invention. First used in the late 19th century, these patterned and textured wall coverings can add a stylish look or hide small imperfections on the surfaces of a room. Depending on the specific type of paintable paper in use, there are several different painting options. The main kinds of paintable wallpaper are the wood flour and linseed oil Lincrusta, the paper and cotton Anaglypta and more modern fiberglass or glass textile styles.

Latex Paint

• Traditional interior latex paints are an acceptable option for your paintable wallpaper project. These water-based choices come in an almost unlimited array of colors that can easily be mixed to create custom decor accents. Use an interior latex directly over the primed wallpaper on its own or as a basecoat for a decorative effect. For example, you can paint a solid shade of red as a basecoat over your wallpaper and then rag or sponge a topcoat of pink or purple for a creative finish.

Glazes

• Decorative and faux finish glazes are special types of paint that you can use to create a variety of effects ranging from cracks and crackles to sponged textures. Glazes are typically clear mediums that you must mix with an interior latex or crafters type of paint. Although most paintable wallpapers are textured or embossed already, the added layer of a faux finish can create an even more intricate look for your room decor project. Some glazes are specially designed to be used on their own as an intermediate coat in-between a base and top layer. These glazes interact with the top layer of paint causing cracking or an antique crackle look. This can add to your paintable wallpaper project, creating a rustic style.

Primer

• A quality primer is often a must for paintable papers. This is especially true for unprimed varieties and glass textile types. Some paintable wall coverings come pre-primed and are ready for a covering with an interior latex. Those papers that are marked or labeled as un-primed or do not specifically say pre-primed need a coat of primer. You can use more breathable or water-based primers, such as interior latex based brands, with lighter weight paintable papers, like those in the Anaglypta category. An oil, or alkyd, primer is another option for heavier weights of paintable papers or those that are discolored. Additionally, a tinted primer that is colored a shade or two lighter than your chosen paint can create a more vibrant or rich saturation of color.