Painting over textured wallpaper can be a massive time-saver, but if done incorrectly, the moisture in the paint can reactivate the wallpaper adhesive. This leads to bubbling, peeling edges, and a messy finish.
Yes, you can absolutely paint over textured wallpaper, provided the paper is securely attached to the wall and not peeling. The key to success is using the right oil-based or shellac-based primer so the moisture in your paint doesn't reactivate the old wallpaper glue and cause bubbling.
Primer is optional (see below for details), but if your project needs it, we recommend using Valspar® High-Hiding Primer/Sealer or Valspar® Multi-Surface Primer/Sealer. Valspar® Wall Trim Flat 2.5-In Brush. Valspar® 9-in x ½-in Textured Walls, Concrete and Decks Knit Roller Cover.
If you paint over it, there's no way to cover up the texture completely, which will show through your paint. For those unlucky enough to deal with woodchip, you can buy special wallpaper that covers up the problem and can be easily painted.
When painting over wallpaper, oil and shellac primers are a safer bet to avoid the wallpaper from peeling. Oil and shellac primers do not penetrate the surface of the wallpaper like latex primers do. They sit on top of the paper and seal it.
However, you'll need to use a primer beforehand that's not water-based, and instead, oil or shellac-based for the best results. Why? Putting too much moisture on your wallpaper can activate its adhesive and cause it to pull away from the wall, leaving you with unevenness and bubbling.
Yes, you can use Kilz to paint over wallpaper, but you must use an oil-based or shellac-based formula, such as KILZ ORIGINAL or KILZ Complete. Do not use water-based (latex) primers, as the moisture will reactivate the wallpaper adhesive, causing the paper to bubble, peel, and detach.
The Downsides to Painting Over Wallpaper
The paint will end up uneven due to frayed edges, bubbles, rips, dust, tears, and other blemishes. You will also have no choice but to paint over seams, which will inevitably remain visible – no matter how many coats you apply.
Yes, wallpaper is not only in style, but it is considered a fundamental design element rather than a basic accent. Modern, easily removable, and highly tactile options allow you to choose from three major directions:
Yes, you can absolutely paint over textured walls. In fact, it is the quickest and most cost-effective way to update them. Success comes down to using the right, thick-nap roller to reach into the grooves and opting for a matte, eggshell, or satin finish to avoid highlighting the texture.
Red is universally considered the hardest paint color to cover. Vibrant red pigments are highly transparent and inherently prone to bleeding through subsequent layers. Other notoriously difficult colors to cover include black, dark blue, dark green, and bright yellow.
In upscale real estate, details like Venetian plaster or hand-applied finishes can significantly increase a property's perceived worth. While some homeowners attempt to texture walls themselves, luxury finishes demand precision and expertise.
The best paint for textured wallpaper is a breathable, water-based emulsion (like standard matt or acrylic eggshell), provided the wallpaper is properly sealed. Always apply an oil-based or shellac-based primer first to prevent the paint's moisture from dissolving the wallpaper adhesive and causing bubbling.
Removing textured wallpaper is usually time-consuming rather than physically difficult. The secret is allowing your soaking solution enough time to penetrate the texture and dissolve the adhesive.
Emulsion is fine on this wallpaper, just get a roller able to coat this texture, long pile/rough depends on how deep the texture is. the wallpaper has already been painted, so cover paint over it, i personally like to use a pad, but a roller is also good as it gets into the divets of the paper.
The most trending wallpapers include Art Deco and Retro designs, which are leading in popularity due to their timeless elegance and nostalgic appeal. Eclectic and Bold styles are also high on the list for those looking to create eye-catching and unique spaces.
Wallpaper does not impact a home's appraised value, as appraisers evaluate structural condition. However, it can significantly reduce your offers from buyers. Prospective buyers frequently factor in the high cost and hassle of removing it, which can cause them to lower their offers or pass on the home entirely.
Wallpaper in 2026 shifts away from flat accent walls, focusing instead on immersive natural themes, tactile materials, and bold statement prints. Top trends include trompe l'oeil textures (faux plaster, stone), moody or vintage-inspired florals, and Biophilic Maximalism, which uses panoramic, hand-painted murals to bring nature directly indoors.
Yes, you can paint over textured wallpaper, but it requires careful preparation to prevent the moisture in the paint from loosening the adhesive and causing peeling. The key is to use an oil-based or shellac-based primer to seal the paper, followed by high-quality acrylic paint, ensuring the paper is firmly attached to the wall first.
8 Common Wallpaper Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
Hotel walls endure constant contact from luggage, furniture, and guests. Minor dents and scuffs that would require repainting can be concealed beneath a well-chosen wallcovering. Second, wallpaper delivers texture, pattern, and visual complexity that paint simply cannot replicate.
What's the Easiest Way to Remove Old Wallpaper? Unlike modern options, older wallpaper will be as tough to remove — though the basic techniques remain the same. Try removing old wallpaper with hot water, vinegar or liquid remover, and use a scraper.
Painting Over Wallpaper Can Be A Bad Idea
You will need to wipe over with a clean damp cloth before it dries. The Selleys Original Sugar Soap wipes are another option to consider for cleaning wallpaper in good condition.