Creative Solutions for Inexpensive Wall Coverings

Decorating walls creatively while sticking to a budget can seem challenging. With some clever solutions, resourcefulness, and flexibility, nearly any space can get an affordable facelift. From using what you already have to choosing materials strategically, it's possible to revamp walls inexpensively.

We'll suggest clever paint makeovers, ways to display existing items, and tips for installing inexpensive materials. With a little effort and imagination, these wall covering tactics can transform any room without breaking the bank.

Use What You Already Have

Paint

Paint is likely the most versatile and economical wall covering option. A fresh coat of color can entirely change the look and feel of a space. For renters on a budget, paint offers an affordable way to customize walls.

Consider refreshing walls with mistinted paints available at steep discounts. Or make a statement by painting creative geometric shapes, stripes, or patterns. Stencils also allow you to add customizable designs with minimal cost and commitment. Look for inspiration from wall mural ideas as well.

For high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, select mold-resistant bathroom paints to prevent damage and peeling. Consider water-resistant epoxy paints for an extra protective garage or basement wall covering as well.

Wall Decor

Take advantage of wall decor you already own. Gallery walls neatly display a collection of photos, art, mirrors or plates. Floating shelves are another way to creatively exhibit meaningful items while covering space.

For a quick update, hang tapestries, curtains, or fabric pieces over dull walls. This adds color and texture while concealing imperfections. Salvage old shutters or siding to mount as decorative focal points as well. Display collections in an organized grid for a high-end boutique look.

Inexpensive Materials

Fabrics

Fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk can make stunning wall accents. For renters, liquid starch offers a removable way to adhere fabric. After coating the back, smooth the fabric directly onto the wall. Air pockets create textured dimension for an artistic look.

Alternative no-sew methods, like using fusible web tape or iron-on hem tape, also work. Or simply stretch fabrics over canvas frames for a quick transformation. Remnants, sheets and secondhand fabrics keep costs low.

For high-traffic areas, select durable fabrics like canvas, denim or upholstery weight. Take care to smooth wrinkles during installation. Consider lining backs of delicate fabrics with iron-on interfacing for stability as well.

Paper

For temporary coverage, opt for decorative papers - including wrapping paper, magazines, newspapers or scrapbook paper. Apply a wallpaper paste or temporary adhesive to tackle smooth or textured walls with ease. As an eco-friendly option, paste pages of old books for a literary look.

Faux brick or faux stone wallpaper brings stylish texture for little cost. For renters needing damage-free options, removable wall decals and contact paper with prepasted wallpaper backing offer customizable style.

Take care when preparing textured or damaged walls prior to paper installation. Fill holes, remove bumps and prime surfaces to help paper lay smoothly without tearing. For bathrooms, select mold/mildew-resistant wallpaper or contact options.

Natural Materials

Natural elements like leaves, ferns or dried flowers can get framed or preserved behind glass for organic appeal. Removable wallpaper printed with plant imagery makes a bold, verdant statement as well. For a living wall, mount preserved moss or succulents onto plywood.

Wood surfaces like shiplap, pallet wood or tongue-and-groove planks add rustic warmth economically. Salon-style gallery walls using a mix of driftwood, antlers, and aged wood make dynamic focal points.

Consider acrylic sealants or polyurethane coats to protect natural materials on walls from moisture, fading and insects over time. Research species of wood and plants that best suit interior wall use and lighting conditions as well.

Creative Tricks for Covering Walls

Paint Techniques

Paint more than just flat colors. Consider dimensional faux finishes for added depth and texture. Faux stone finishes use a textured sponge and layers of paint to emulate surfaces like flagstone, brick, stucco or sandstone. For an exposed pipe look, paint wood dowels silver and affix them randomly to the wall before coating with gray paint.

Chalkboard paint also transforms walls into writable surfaces for notes, art and lists. Use painter's tape to create geometric wall patterns first. Peel off the tape after painting for super sharp edges. Strategic use of accent walls in bold colors makes for dramatic focal points as well.

Consider a two-tone look using complementary colors. Paint the bottom half a lighter tone to give the illusion of higher ceilings as well. Paint inside bookcases or display shelving to highlight those storage features attractively.

Decor Techniques

Tapestries allow you to switch up the look anytime by hanging new pieces to match the season or mood. Curtains hung as statement walls add dimension with their folds and pleats. Display a large world map to encourage dreams of future travels, or mount a retro movie poster for a pop of color.

Some renters creatively use temporary wall decals in their spaces. Geometric shapes, tribal patterns and nature scenes offer removable options, while repositionable wallpaper creates a stunning faux backsplash without the mess or commitment.

When selecting wall decor, consider light reflections. Glossy papers, glass prints, mirrors and metals reflect more. Matte artworks and fabrics absorb light. Coordinate pieces harmoniously for the desired brightness and ambiance.

Additional Factors When Planning

DIY Skills

Some wallcovering techniques require more skill than others. Painting only demands basic supplies and a steady hand, while wallpaper involves measuring, matching patterns and careful application.

If DIY abilities are limited, select project materials and methods suitable to current skill levels. Plenty of online tutorials can teach techniques step-by-step as well. Don't hesitate to recruit a handy friend for an extra set of hands!

Access to Materials

Scope out local stores for sales or dollar store options. Check online sources and secondhand markets too. Getting creative with materials at hand often sparks ingenious ideas!

Refreshing walls while on a strict budget may require some clever solutions. But with resourcefulness and imagination, creating gorgeous designer looks is possible without breaking the bank.

From using what you already own to picking inexpensive materials, we explored plenty of ways to cover walls affordably. We also recommended paint, decor and installation techniques to employ. Finally, we advised factoring in DIY abilities and material access when formulating plans.

Even rental spaces can be upgraded with a bit of creativity. These tips make it simple to craft picture-perfect walls that captivate without overwhelming your wallet.