A question we hear
What do I need to know before choosing or ordering a wallcovering?
Material, roll or panel format, width, repeat, match type and hanging method affect preparation, quantity and installation. Texture, metallic effects and natural materials also need to be seen physically.
Plain-language definitions
Terms used in this guide
- Pattern repeat
- The vertical distance before a wallpaper design repeats.
- Match type
- How adjacent drops must be positioned so the design joins correctly.
Technical facts
What can be verified
Product codes, dimensions, approved substrates, finish descriptions and application instructions should be checked against the current manufacturer label or technical data.
Professional judgement
What remains a recommendation
Colour relationships, atmosphere, visual balance and the order in which options are shortlisted are informed recommendations. They still need to be tested in the actual room or project.
Read the full specification
Check whether it is sold by roll, metre, panel or set. Record usable width, repeat and match together before estimating quantities.
Match preparation to the paper
Walls should be sound, clean and appropriately sealed. Follow the current supplier instruction for paste-the-wall, paste-the-paper or specialist adhesive requirements.
Check appearance and batch
View a current sample for scale, texture and reflectivity. Order the calculated quantity together where batch consistency matters.
Primary sources
Check the current technical guidance
- Arte instruction videos and technical installation guidance
- Arte explanation of wallpaper match types
External technical sources support specific factual checks. Designer Colours’ recommendations and showroom observations remain clearly labelled separately.