Maya Ellison
Wallpapering your plastic desk is a fun and cost-effective way to give your furniture a new lease of life. Before you begin, it is important to select the right type of wallpaper. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a popular choice for covering desks and other furniture as it is easy to apply and can be removed cleanly. It can also be applied to multiple surfaces, including wood, plastic, and glass. Once you have selected your wallpaper, ensure your work surface is clean and dry before applying the wallpaper, smoothing out any bubbles with a credit card or your hands. Finally, to seal your wallpaper and protect it from dirt and discolouration, you can use a liquid wallpaper protection fluid or a self-adhesive transparent foil.
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What You'll Learn
Choose the right type of wallpaper for plastic
Choosing the right type of wallpaper for a plastic desk is essential to achieving the desired look and functionality. Here are some factors to consider when selecting wallpaper for a plastic surface:
Type of Wallpaper
The most common types of wallpaper include traditional paper, non-woven, vinyl, vinyl-coated, peel-and-stick, and grasscloth. Each type has unique characteristics and advantages. For example, traditional paper wallpaper is classic and environmentally friendly, while vinyl wallpaper is durable, moisture-resistant, and cost-effective. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is perfect for temporary use and versatility, as it can be easily removed and reused.
Surface Considerations
Before applying wallpaper to a plastic surface, it's crucial to prepare the surface properly. Ensure the plastic surface is smooth, clean, and dry. Sanding the plastic surface with sandpaper can create a rough texture that helps the wallpaper adhesive stick better. Additionally, consider using a primer to create an even base for the wallpaper, especially if the plastic surface is shiny or has a complex texture.
Adhesive Options
When applying wallpaper to plastic, selecting the appropriate adhesive is vital. Some wallpapers come with pre-applied adhesive, such as peel-and-stick varieties, which offer convenience and ease of application. Alternatively, you can use a separate adhesive specifically designed for plastic surfaces, ensuring strong adhesion and durability.
Design and Pattern Selection
The design and pattern of the wallpaper play a significant role in enhancing the aesthetic of your plastic desk. Choose a pattern or colour that complements the surrounding decor and the overall style of the room. Consider the size of the desk and the visual impact you want to create. Bold geometric prints or subtle textures like grasscloth can be used to make a statement, while softer patterns can provide a more understated look.
Protection and Maintenance
To ensure the longevity of your wallpapered plastic desk, consider applying a protective treatment to prevent dirt and discolouration. You can use high-gloss varnish designed for crafts, carefully applying it with a paintbrush. Alternatively, self-adhesive transparent foil can be used to cover the wallpaper, protecting it from stains and scratches.
By considering these factors and selecting the most suitable type of wallpaper for your plastic desk, you can achieve a stylish and functional result that meets your desired aesthetic and performance expectations.
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Prepare the plastic desk surface
To prepare the plastic desk surface for sealing with wallpaper, you should start by choosing the right wallpaper. Select a pattern and colour that you like, ensuring you have enough wallpaper to cover the entire desk surface. It is recommended to measure the surface area you plan to wallpaper.
Next, you will need to prepare the desk surface. Remove any hardware that may be in the way, such as handles, hinges, or knobs. Then, use a damp sponge to wipe down the desk surface, ensuring it is free of dirt or grit as this can interfere with the wallpaper's adherence. Wait for the desk to air dry completely before proceeding.
If you are using regular wallpaper and glue, you will need to roughen the plastic surface with sandpaper to ensure the glue sticks properly. However, if you are using peel-and-stick wallpaper, this step is not necessary as it adheres to most smooth surfaces, including plastic.
Now you are ready to begin the wallpapering process!
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Apply the wallpaper
Before applying the wallpaper, you should select a pattern and colour that you like and that complements the other furniture and decorative elements in the room. You should also measure the surface area you plan to wallpaper.
If you are using non-woven wallpaper, spread the paste directly onto the area you want to cover with a paste brush or roller. For paper-based wallpaper, cut the wallpaper to the required dimensions, apply the paste to the wallpaper, and leave it to soak before applying it to the desk.
When applying the wallpaper, align the material with the surface of the desk. Use a brush, roller, plastic squeegee, or spatula to smooth out the paper towards the edges, ensuring there are no air bubbles or lumps of paste. Work gradually, bit by bit, from bottom to top and from right to left, to prevent bubbles and creases. Pay particular attention to the edges and corners to ensure the wallpaper adheres properly, especially if the desk is in constant use.
Finally, smooth out the entire surface of the desk with a credit card or your hands, making sure there are no remaining bubbles or wrinkles.
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Smooth out any air bubbles
To smooth out any air bubbles, you can use a smoothing tool, a credit card, or your hands. Apply light pressure and run the tool over the area in all directions, pressing out any excess paste.
If you are wallpapering a large surface, use a roller to smooth out the paper towards the edges, ensuring there are no air bubbles. For smaller or more delicate areas, use a plastic squeegee or spatula.
If you are using a wallpaper adhesive, ensure that you are applying an even layer of paste. Too much or too little paste can cause the wallpaper to shift, resulting in bubbles.
If you notice any air bubbles after applying the wallpaper, lift the paper and smooth it out again, ensuring all bubbles are gone. It is much easier to get rid of bubbles when the wallpaper is still wet.
If the wallpaper is dry, you can use a syringe to fill the bubble with wallpaper paste. Make a small incision with a craft knife and fill the bubble with paste, then smooth it out. Wipe away any excess paste with a damp cloth and use a hairdryer to finish.
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Seal the wallpaper with varnish or foil
Sealing wallpaper with varnish or foil is an effective way to protect your furniture from dirt and discolouration. It is a simple process that can transform the look of your furniture without spending a lot of money.
Firstly, it is important to note that vinyl wallpapers already come with a protective coating and do not require additional sealing. For other types of wallpaper, you can choose between sealing with varnish or foil.
If you choose to seal your wallpaper with varnish, make sure to use a high-gloss varnish from a craft shop. Apply it to the wallpaper with a large paintbrush. Do not use a varnish from a hardware or DIY store, as it will result in a yellowing, greasy-looking film and can react negatively with the wallpaper. The varnish from craft stores is designed to seal surfaces decorated with any type of paper.
Alternatively, you can use self-adhesive, transparent foil to seal your wallpaper. Cut the foil to the same dimensions as the wallpaper and apply it carefully with a spatula. If there are any blisters or air bubbles, prick them with a small needle and smooth them out.
Before applying any type of sealant, make sure the surface is dry, clean, fat-free, and stable. If you are working with wooden or plastic surfaces, use sandpaper to roughen the surface to ensure that the glue will stick properly. When applying the wallpaper, work gradually, bit by bit, from bottom to top and from right to left to prevent bubbles and creases.
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Frequently asked questions
Self-adhesive, peel-and-stick wallpaper is suitable for plastic desks. It can be applied to multiple surfaces and removes cleanly.
First, select a pattern and colour that you like and measure the surface you wish to cover. Then, clean the surface with a damp sponge and allow it to air-dry. Next, align the wallpaper with the surface, smoothing out any air bubbles with a credit card, your hands, or a brayer.
You can seal wallpaper using liquid "wallpaper protection fluid", which creates a transparent matt or gloss layer. Alternatively, you can use self-adhesive transparent foil or varnish, although it is important to note that clear varnish may react negatively with the wallpaper.
Sealing wallpaper protects the surface from dirt and discolouration, making it easier to clean. It also prevents damage and can make the wallpaper washable.
