5 things you need to know about Grasscloth

Grasscloth offers unmatched texture and the ultimate tactile experience, but this elegant wallcovering can throw up a few challenges you need to be aware of before any big decisions are made. In this article, we’ll give you the inside scoop on this unique wallcovering, as well as suggest a few textured alternatives that can give you the look when a real grasscloth might be a red flag.

1. Perfectly Imperfect

Every roll of grasscloth wallpaper will be different, with its own distinctive pattern and texture. The fibres will vary in size and shade between rolls (even when bought from the same batch, in the same colour and pattern).

These inconsistencies are not defects in the product, but rather a result of the manual production process and the natural materials from which it is constructed. The inconsistencies in both texture and colour mean that it will be possible to distinguish between each strip of wallpaper when it is on the wall and the seams between strips will also be subtly visible- adding to its charm.

2. Earthy Scent

grasscloth wallpaper has the subtle smell of grass. This natural and earthy scent will fade with time and is, for many, part of the appeal of authentic grasscloth. As a natural material, grasscloth wallpaper is porous, so it also absorbs and holds scents.

3. Stains easily

grasscloth wallpaper is also very absorbent and that makes it prone to staining. Most substances and liquids (including water) will leave a mark on it.

4. Sensitive to Sunlight

As a natural, untreated material, grasscloth wallpaper is more sensitive to the sunlight than traditional coverings. This is particularly true in darker colours. If exposed to direct sunlight, the wallpaper can fade and bleach out with time.

There are ways to avoid this damage: consider installing the wallpaper in an interior room that gets less natural light or one with blackout blinds or curtains, that can be drawn during the day. Alternatively, you may prefer to extend the life of your grasscloth wallpaper by investing in additional window treatments, such as the installation on the glass of a clear UV ray filtering film.

5. Bangs and Bumps

grasscloth wallpaper is very delicate. It is far more prone to ripping and tearing than traditional wallpaper. Its texture (and grassy scent) also make it a very attractive scratching post for cats. For these reasons, think carefully before placing grasscloth wallpaper in a hallway or entrance.

Instead, consider using grasscloth in a bedroom or on a single wall as a focal point. You could also install grasscloth wallpaper above chair rail moulding or wainscoting.