'Pretty Pretty Wallpaper'

Always wondered what to do with that pretty wallpaper, but never thought to cover your walls with it (who does that anymore)? Here’s one way to reuse that wallpaper that will enliven your medicine cabinets without overpowering your bathroom walls.

Tip: Stay away from grandmother-inspired floral wallpaper and make sure you’re using a brightly patterned wallpaper. Create a visual surprise, not a visual bore.

Example of wallpaper inside medicine cabinet

What you will need:

· 1/4 –inch foam core

· A roll of wallpaper in two different panels (will allow you to switch patterns)

· 3-inch paintbrush

· Mildew-resistant wallpaper paste

· Measuring tape

· Ruler

· Box cutter/craft knife

· Scissors

· Pencil

Bright, bold wallpaper choices

How to:

1. First, remove shelves and use the measuring tape to note the exact dimensions of the inside of the cabinet.

2. Cut the foam board to the exact measurements of the cabinet using the ruler, pencil and box cutter. The same dimensions should be traced with a pencil on the two rolls of wallpaper, and cut with a scissor.

3. Take the glue and spread evenly on one side of the foam board using the paintbrush. Lay the wallpaper down on the foam board slowly, starting on one end and smoothing out the paper and the air bubbles as you go.

4. Repeat this last action on the other side of the foam board, using the second roll of wallpaper.

5. Once dry, place the finished board inside the cabinet. The foam board should fit snuggly into the cabinet. Tap it lightly into place.

6. Put the shelves back in place and you’re finished! If you want to change the pattern in the future, just flip the board over!

Example of wallpaper used inside a curio chest

*This how-to project only works on cabinets with removable shelves. If your medicine cabinets don’t fit the bill, another way to create contrast is to paint the inside of the medicine cabinet a different color than the rest of your walls.

The point is to be resourceful and creative, and to revamp your décor in an easy and inexpensive way.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of simplystated.realsimple.com; mintdesignblog.com katyelliott.com