How to Apply Wallpaper to a Bookshelf

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Learn how to apply wallpaper to a bookshelf back. This easy DIY adds interest to a boring bookshelf. It’s perfect for a book-loving maximalist who loves pattern.

You might also like this post about how to paint furniture white (and other light colors.)

I bought this bookshelf from a thrift store because I liked how sturdy it was. The top was a bit scratched up and the back had a crudely cut hole in it, but I knew that I could make it shine again.

Bookshelf Before

This bookcase was solid wood, with nice, clean lines. It was perfect for a makeover. 

How to Apply Wallpaper to a Bookshelf

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Supplies Needed

• Sander
• Primer
• Paint
• Wallpaper
• Utility knife

I chose to paint this bookshelf, but you can also refinish one if the wood is in good condition.

• Prep is key for painting furniture. Sand and prime before painting. I know that many paints claim to be no-prep, but I would never take that chance with a bookshelf. Bookshelves receive a lot of wear and tear, so good prep work is important. Sanding will smooth out any imperfections. Priming will seal any stains that may bleed through. Sanding and priming will ensure that your paint will stick to the wood. I recommend this primer because it’s heavy-duty!
• Use a good paint. For this bookshelf makeover, I used chalk paint, which I don’t love. It showed brush strokes and took too many coats of paint, plus it needed to be sealed. Instead, I would recommend this paint. It goes on easily, doesn’t show brushstrokes, and doesn’t require a top coat. Plus, the finish is so smooth and hard once it’s dry. A little goes a long way, so you get your money’s worth!
• When selecting a wallpaper, keep in mind that a repeat pattern can make lining up your wallpaper tricky. You will also need more to match the repeat. For a first-time user, I would recommend a simple pattern with no repeat, such as this beadboard wallpaper. I like that it’s pre-pasted as well because that makes it easier to use, too.
• Use a new blade in your utility knife when cutting your wallpaper. I like to use a straight edge and cut along it. (Edited: My newer preferred method is to measure and cut. I line a lot of drawers, and the process is very similar.)

  

• If your bookshelf needs to be assembled, apply the wallpaper to the backing before you attach it. This makes the process much easier and faster.
• Peel-and-stick wallpaper is even easier to use! It comes in a variety of patterns and is really easy to apply.
• For a top coat, I love the ease of a wipe-on poly. It really is as easy as wiping it on over the paint. Wipe-on poly does tend to yellow a bit, so it’s best used on darker colors or those where the yellow hue will look nice. (It can turn too-blue paint a bit more aqua.)
• Allow your piece to cure for several days before using it. Although the paint appears dry, it may take several weeks to fully cure. Few people want to wait that long, so I recommend a few days.

Painting a Bookshelf FAQs

What kind of paint do I use on a bookshelf?

I used chalk paint with a polycrylic top coat for this bookshelf. If you use latex paint, be sure to use a good primer first. And let it cure as long as possible before putting stuff on the shelves.

I prefer an eggshell finish for painted furniture because it’s matte yet still durable. Semi-gloss paint is another good option because it can be wiped down if necessary.

Can I paint a laminate bookshelf?

Yes, but prep is even more important for laminate. Without primer, the paint will peel off in sheets. 

Sand the entire piece before painting. Use a shellac-based primer or even an oil-based primer for the best results. 

You might also like:

• DIY Wallpaper Panels
• How to Distress Furniture
• How to Refinish a Table
• Two-tone Vintage Washstand Makeover

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