Tapeter

Tapeter, known in English as wallpaper, is a decorative wall covering used to add color, pattern, and texture to interiors. Sold in rolls, it is hung with an adhesive to cover walls or ceilings, producing a uniform surface or a focal feature. Modern tapeter includes a range of materials—traditional paper, vinyl-coated, and non-woven—offering various textures, patterns, and levels of washability. In Swedish usage, tapeter refers to wallpaper.

Wallpaper originated in East Asia and spread to Europe, where hand-painted sheets evolved into printed designs. Mass production began in the 19th century, making wallpaper affordable and widely used. In the late 20th century vinyl and non-woven wallpapers became common, improving durability and ease of cleaning, while digital printing expanded customization.

Common types include paper wallpaper; vinyl wallpaper (durable and washable); vinyl-coated and non-woven varieties. Natural options such as grasscloth and silk exist, as do metallic, foiled, and embossed textures. Murals and accent panels are designed for feature walls, while neutral patterns suit larger spaces.

Installation requires preparation: remove existing coverings, repair walls, and smooth surfaces. Measure, plan pattern matching, cut panels, and apply adhesive—paste-the-wall or paste-the-paper depending on product. Align seams carefully, trim edges, and allow drying according to manufacturer guidelines.

Maintenance and removal vary by type; many vinyl and non-woven wallpapers are washable, while plain paper versions are less so. Removal can be straightforward with non-woven or vinyl products, but older paper may require scoring and steaming. Environmental considerations include adhesive formulations, VOCs, and recyclability of materials.