Grasscloth: It's Not Your Grandparents' Wallpaper
Wallpaper is one of those things that was fashionable for a decade or two but then fell out of favor. You might think of it as something your grandparents would have put in their home. So, when you first come across something called grasscloth wallpaper, you might look right past it. You may, however, want to back up and give it a second look. Grasscloth wallpaper is not your grandparents' wallpaper, and it is a much better choice for homes than you may realize. Here's what you should know about grasscloth wallpaper.
1. It's an all-natural product
These days, green building has become quite common. There's a real push towards using building and decorating materials that are natural and good for the planet. Grasscloth wallpaper definitely qualifies as a green product. It's made from jute, arrowroot grass, or seagrass. You don't have to worry about volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like you do with many paints. And one day, when you do strip the grasscloth wallpaper off your walls, it will be broken down naturally and add nutrients back to the soil.
2. It has the natural, minimalist look that's so common today
Since grasscloth wallpaper is made from grass, it has a natural appearance. Its texture tends to be rough — similar to that of a jute rug. And although companies sell colored grasscloth wallpaper, the colors tend to be muted and natural. There are no loud or complex patterns. The look of grasscloth wallpaper coordinates well with the simple, minimalist look most homeowners are seeking today. You can use it to help create a neutral space and then use accessories to add pops of color, if desired.
3. It stands up well to fluctuations in temperature and humidity
Years ago, a common problem with wallpaper was that it would peel and start coming detached from the wall if exposed to moisture or temperature fluctuations. This is not an issue with grasscloth wallpaper. The grasses used to make the paper are naturally resistant to moisture. The paper won't discolor, buckle, or peel if your dehumidifier breaks or if you don't have a dehumidifier. This makes grasscloth wallpaper a good choice for temperate climates.
Don't assume grasscloth wallpaper will be like the wallpaper of yesteryear. It is head-and-shoulders above the old options. Consider the benefits above, and then take a look at some of the various colors of wallpaper sold near you.