Mastering the Art of Wallpaper Repeat Pattern Calculation- A Comprehensive Guide
How to Calculate Wallpaper Repeat Pattern
Wallpaper is a popular choice for home decor, adding color, texture, and pattern to walls. However, when it comes to designing with wallpaper, understanding how to calculate the wallpaper repeat pattern is crucial for achieving a cohesive and visually appealing look. In this article, we will discuss the steps and techniques to calculate wallpaper repeat patterns, ensuring that your wallpaper installation is both accurate and aesthetically pleasing.
The first step in calculating wallpaper repeat pattern is to identify the type of pattern you are working with. There are two main types of wallpaper patterns: modular and non-modular. Modular patterns repeat themselves in a consistent manner, while non-modular patterns may vary in size and shape, making them more challenging to calculate.
For modular patterns, you will need to measure the distance between the starting point of the pattern and the next repeat. This distance is often referred to as the “repeat” or “match” and is typically found on the wallpaper’s roll or packaging. Once you have this measurement, you can easily calculate the number of repeats needed for your wall.
To calculate the number of repeats for a modular pattern, follow these steps:
1. Measure the length of the wall where you will be applying the wallpaper.
2. Divide the length of the wall by the repeat distance to determine the number of repeats.
3. Multiply the number of repeats by the width of the wallpaper to find the total square footage required.
For non-modular patterns, the process is slightly more complex. You will need to measure the distance between the starting point of the pattern and the next repeat, as well as the length of the pattern itself. This information will allow you to calculate the number of patterns needed to cover your wall.
Here’s how to calculate the number of non-modular pattern repeats:
1. Measure the length of the wall where you will be applying the wallpaper.
2. Divide the length of the wall by the distance between the starting points of the pattern repeats.
3. Multiply the result by the length of the pattern to find the total number of patterns needed.
4. Multiply the total number of patterns by the width of the wallpaper to find the total square footage required.
In some cases, you may need to account for the overlap or seam allowance when calculating wallpaper repeat patterns. This is particularly important when working with patterns that have a significant overlap, such as large floral or geometric designs. To account for overlap, add a small margin (typically 1/4 inch) to the width of the wallpaper when calculating the total square footage.
Once you have calculated the total square footage required, you can purchase the appropriate amount of wallpaper. Be sure to order extra wallpaper to account for cuts, overlaps, and potential mistakes during installation.
In conclusion, calculating wallpaper repeat patterns is an essential skill for anyone working with wallpaper. By following these steps and techniques, you can ensure that your wallpaper installation is both accurate and visually appealing. Whether you’re working with modular or non-modular patterns, understanding how to calculate repeat patterns will help you create a stunning and cohesive look for your space.
