November 7, 2023 | The Hang
What, why, and how shading plays an important role when installing natural wallcoverings.
When it comes to hanging grasscloth and other natural wallcoverings, one of the biggest challenges is understanding how to shade.
This can be quite tricky, especially when you want to achieve a beautifully paneled installation for your client. As the leader in grasscloth wallcovering, Phillip Jeffries is on a mission to make the installation process a lot easier! Along with master installer Dennis Delpome, we recommend shading natural wallcovering one wall at a time and starting with Dennis' three strip method. This method involves applying three strips of grasscloth to the wall, ensuring that they are properly aligned and securely attached before proceeding.
To achieve the perfect shading, Dennis suggests opening as many bolts of grasscloth as necessary for one wall. This allows you to carefully select panels that will seamlessly transition from dark to light, creating a stunning overall effect. By completing one wall with perfect shading before moving onto the next, you can ensure that each section of the room is beautifully coordinated.
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How To Shade Grasscloth Wallcovering
Once the initial three strips are in place, Dennis advises shading the grasscloth panels from one corner of the wall to the other. In the video below, he explains that when you transition from one wall to the next, the shading is naturally going to be different. By focusing on shading within each wall, you can create a cohesive and harmonious look in each individual space. Learn more in the video below.
- Open enough bolts to shade 1 wall
- Measure & hang 3 strips first
- Pause and smooth
The Inherent Beauty of Grasscloth Wallcovering
Grasscloths are a natural product handcrafted by artisans. Each roll is completely unique since the fibers will vary in color, size, and texture. When panels are lined up next to each other, they will never match which is why they panel beautifully on your walls. These variances are part of the inherent beauty of a natural product and should be celebrated.
Working with grasscloth and natural materials requires attention to detail and careful consideration of shading. By following Dennis' method of taking it one wall at a time and focusing on perfect shading, you can achieve a professional and visually stunning result.
So, whether you're redecorating your living room or sprucing up your bedroom, keep these helpful tips in mind for a beautiful and cohesive look.
- Start at a corner
- Always shade darker to lighter
- Complete one wall at a time
How to Shade By Reversing Strips
As described in the video above, Dennis has a clever technique called "reversing" grasscloth wallcovering drops. It's a go-to tip that he always tries when hanging natural wallcovering. This involves cutting one drop of grasscloth and installing it, and then turning the second piece around so that the bottom becomes the top. By putting the same edge together, you can achieve a subtle shade with natural wallcovering. This trick is particularly useful because the shading tends to go across a sheet of grasscloth. So, if you're looking to create a subtle, nuanced effect, give "reversing" a try during your next wallcovering project.
Your Ultimate Source for Grasscloth
Phillip Jeffries love of grasscloth remains as deep as it was when we f first started more than 45 years ago. We love their versatility, texture, and layering. They add warmth and richness to any room. Now that you're armed with the knowledge and tools to successfully hang natural wallcovering, we invite you to explore our limitless array of wallcoverings today!
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Grasscloth wallcoverings shown: Manila Hemp
