Map Wallpaper for Walls: The DIY Way
Some projects sit in the background of our photos for years before I finally write about them. This map wall was one of those — often asked about, rarely explained. Today I’m sharing the story of how it came together, what went wrong, and how it ultimately became a meaningful feature in our home.
I kept delaying this post because the process had bumps and missteps. I considered removing the maps more than once, but in the end the imperfect, slightly quirky result felt right. DIY rarely goes perfectly, and that is part of the journey.
The project began on a whim, before wainscoting and before a full plan was in place. I used heavy-weight map wrapping paper I already had on hand. My plan was simple: paste the paper to the wall like traditional wallpaper. I had an old tub of wallpaper paste and a bit of confidence, so I started one evening without much preparation.
That first attempt revealed several problems. Wrapping paper and wallpaper paste don’t always behave the same way, and the paper’s size and weight made the process messy and time-consuming. After multiple tries and some sections torn down and re-applied, I realized pasting every sheet wasn’t going to work for me.
Eventually I switched to a much simpler method: push pins. I tacked the maps directly to the drywall with small metal pins that leave the paper slightly off the wall and are easy to adjust. If I had started with pins, this project would have been simpler and less stressful. Sometimes the simplest solution is the best.
The maps are not uniform like roll wallpaper, so there was no pattern repeat to rely on. I overlapped sheets where needed and wrapped a few pieces around a corner. Because each sheet has fixed dimensions, the overall installation is inherently imperfect. I accepted those imperfections and let them become part of the hallway’s personality.
I considered removing the maps during a later remodel to start fresh, but opted to leave them. The walls will eventually need trim and some repairs, but that’s a future update. For now the map feature remains a meaningful, lived-in element in the house — a daily reminder of travels and memories.
My practical recommendation for anyone wanting to use heavy wrapping paper on a wall: use push pins. It’s fast, reversible, and perfect for renters or temporary solutions. As long as pins are secure and out of reach of small children, this method is a no-fuss way to display large decorative papers.
If you prefer a glued finish, take the time to research adhesives and consider a removable wallpaper paste designed for nontraditional materials. The right paste can produce a seamless look, but using the wrong product can cause bubbling, tearing, or difficulty removing the paper later.
I remain a fan of traditional wallpaper for the dramatic effect it can create, and I’d happily use professional help for a full-wall installation. For this map wall, however, the casual, hand-applied approach suits the space and the story behind it.
Map Wall DIY Summary and Tips
1. Use heavy map wrapping paper rather than standard wallpaper if you want a textured, graphic look.
2. For an easy, reversible method, hang sheets with small metal push pins rather than relying on paste.
3. Expect some imperfection: overlap sheets as needed and accept that this style won’t align like rolled wallpaper. That charm becomes part of the design.
Have you ever papered a wall with gift wrap or scrapbook paper?
Share your experience and tips!
The map wall is one of those small, personal details that gives a hallway character and invites conversation. If you try this idea, start simple, test your materials, and decide whether you want a temporary or permanent solution before you begin.