Best Paint Finish for Wall Stickers

Do you LOVE wall stickers? And want to use them on your next redecorating project? If so, here is some helpful information about paint and wall surfaces to keep in mind as you make your decor choices.

1 - PAINT FINISHES - Satin or glossy paint provides a good finish for applying wall stickers. Enamel paint is even better, as it is less porous. Flat paint is too porous and doesn't allow the stickers to adhere very well. Zero VOC paint also doesn't work well with wall stickers. Check out our post Home Decor Basics: Painting Tips & Tricks for more information.

Dandelion Decal on textured wall

2 - TEXTURE VS SHINE - In our experience, a shiny paint (satin, gloss, enamel) is better, even if there is some texture on the wall, than using a dull (flat) paint on a wall that is smooth/without texture. Our special post about working with texture can be found at How to Apply Wall Stickers to Textured or "Knockdown" Surfaces.  

3 - DRYING VS CURING - Just because paint is dry to the touch does not mean it has cured or hardened all the way through. This is a crucial difference, and can take several days, depending on the paint and on the weather, but plan on at least 2 weeks. Check your paint can label for specific curing times or contact us at  Wall Decor Plus More and we'll try to help you. The stronger the odor your new paint gives off, the longer you should let it cure before applying wall stickers. The odor likely comes from the compounds and gases in the paint. Those gases can break down the adhesive on the wall stickers, making them not stick or fall off sooner.

 

4 - MOISTURE & WALL STICKERS - Now, this does not mean wall stickers won't work just fine in your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room. They will! What we are talking about here is ongoing moisture behind your sheet rock that can cause problems for your wall stickers. Think walls that back up to cooling systems, water pipes, overhead windows or windows that have been boarded up. These areas are prone to condensation that may not be obvious at the time of sticker application. Check out our post with special tips on applying vinyl wall stickers to moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms. Just click on Will Wall Stickers Work in My Bathroom?

By making some wise decor surface choices and following our application tips, you'll be assured that your wall stickers will stay where you put them.

~Sallianne