Published: July 5, 2011, By Abbe Fenimore

Bookshelf Accents {Before and After}

A few weeks ago we installed wallpaper in the back of my client’s  living room bookshelves. We decided to go with this warm blue in a contemporary pattern from Kravet’s wallcovering collection. It works in the space because it brings depth to the bookshelves and the subtle pattern doesn’t distract from the other patterns in the room.

Here are what the shelves looked like BEFORE…

If you have thought about installing wallpaper but didn’t think it would be an easy task…you should go for it. I installed the wallpaper in both shelves in about 2 hours. There were not many outlets or much trimming to do since the back of these shelves were already in great shape.

Here are a few more details on the process.

I started by removing all of the accessories, shelves and outlet plates. I used  a mixture of warm water and vinegar to remove any grime or dirt that may keep the paper from sticking properly.   Cover your eyes if you don’t want to see this….but I applied the strippable wallpaper adhesive directly to the back of the shelf.  Think Mr. Miyagi from Karate Kid….up…down…left…right. Being patient and getting the seams right are the key to getting things right.

Now to the fun stuff…the AFTER.  I was so excited when my client walked in just as I was finishing the larger bookshelf, she loved it.  Once the paper was up and the adhesive had time to dry, I installed the shelves back into the nook and began to work through all of the pieces my client wanted to place back in the shelves.  I hope to have the project photographed this summer!