What Was Victorian Wallpaper Made Of

What Was Victorian Wallpaper Made Of?

The Victorian era, spanning from the coronation of Queen Victoria in 1837 to her death in 1901, was a period of significant technological advancements and artistic innovation, including the rise of wallpaper as a fashionable and affordable wall covering.

Early in the Victorian era, wallpaper was primarily made from paper, which was also the material used for centuries-old printed wallpaper, such as Chinese and French scenic wallpapers. However, the advent of new manufacturing processes and the availability of new materials led to the development of various types of wallpaper with unique characteristics:

1. Paper Wallpaper:

Paper remained the most common material for wallpaper throughout the Victorian era. It was made from cellulose fibers derived from plants such as cotton, linen, or wood. Paper wallpaper was relatively inexpensive and came in a wide range of patterns, colors, and textures.

2. Flock Wallpaper:

Flock wallpaper, a popular Victorian style, featured a velvety texture created by applying wool or cotton fibers to a paper backing. The fibers were cut into short lengths and applied using a glue-based adhesive. Flock wallpaper gave the illusion of plush fabric but was more affordable and easier to maintain.

3. Lincrusta Wallpaper:

Lincrusta wallpaper was a revolutionary innovation developed by Frederick Walton in the 1870s. It was made from a mixture of linseed oil, wood flour, and resin, which was applied to a fabric backing. Lincrusta wallpaper had a durable, embossed surface that resembled leather or wood paneling. It was fire-resistant, washable, and available in various colors and patterns.

4. Anaglypta Wallpaper:

Anaglypta wallpaper was another embossed wallpaper type that became popular in the late Victorian era. It was made from multiple layers of paper pressed together to create an intricate relief pattern. Anaglypta wallpaper was durable, affordable, and could be painted over to change its appearance.

5. Mica Wallpaper:

Mica wallpaper, as the name suggests, incorporated mica flakes into its design. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral that gives the wallpaper a distinctive shimmery effect. It was often used to create opulent and glamorous interiors.

6. Moiré Wallpaper:

Moiré wallpaper was created using a special printing process that produced a shimmering, wavy pattern. The effect was achieved by printing the wallpaper twice with slightly offset registers, creating an optical illusion. Moiré wallpaper was popular for its elegance and sophistication.

In addition to these materials, Victorian wallpaper often incorporated various pigments, dyes, and metallic powders to create vibrant colors and patterns. The development of synthetic dyes in the mid-19th century further expanded the color palette available to wallpaper manufacturers.

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