Printed wallpaper
is often machine printed in numerous designs and colors
and is reasonably priced. Hand printed wallpaper is
available but is obviously more costly. These papers
are not as hard wearing as the machine printed variety.
Their colors are not as fast and can tear when wet.
They can be lightly wiped if dirty but cannot be washed,
so are unsuitable for busy areas. Delicate patterns
are also more difficult to match. If they are hand
made designs the accuracy of the pattern is not as
reliable as the machine printed papers. Printed papers
are not particularly suitable for areas where there
is a build up of steam or condensation.
Anaglypta
is a white, thicker relief paper with an embossed
pattern. It is then painted over with either emulsion
or resin based paint. It is an ideal covering for
a poor surface as it disguises many lumps and bumps.
.
Supaglypta
is a stronger version of Anaglypta. Cotton fibers
are used in place of wood pulp, which allows a deeper
embossed pattern. It is then painted over.
Flock
wallpaper has a fine pile synthetic
or natural embossed surface, glued to backing paper.
It often gives a velvet texture and is rich in colour.
It is one of the more expensive wallpapers. It is
a difficult paper to hang, as any paste touching the
surface will ruin the pile. If it becomes stained,
it can be carefully sponged, otherwise it can be gently
brushed or vacuumed to remove surface dust.
Vinyl wallpaper
has the design printed on a layer of vinyl. It has
a fine paper backing and gives an easy to wipe surface.
Expanded vinyl has a texture similar to a heavy embossed
paper, but require less paste for hanging. It is a
very durable surface, which can even be lightly scrubbed,
making it particularly suitable for kitchens and bathrooms.
Washable wallpaper
is ordinary wallpaper which is either coated with
a thin glaze of polyvinyl acetate -PVA or is printed
with water resistant inks. It gives an easy to wipe
surface and is particularly suitable for kitchens
and bathrooms.