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6 Creative Ways to Display Antique Wallpaper Samples

If you have a piece of antique wallpaper, it’s a charming way to bring the past into your home decor. Here are six ideas to display it beautifully:

Under Glass on a Table

Repurpose a coffee or side table by adding a sheet of glass over the wallpaper sample on its surface. This approach allows you to display the wallpaper in a functional setting, making it part of the furniture while protecting it from damage. It's also great if you have a small side table that has been scratched on the top and you can save it that way.

In an Old Frame

Antique wallpaper sample from 1924 - Natalia Willmott

An antique frame can highlight the vintage charm of your wallpaper sample. Look for frames with intricate designs or those in weathered wood or gilded finishes to complement the era of your wallpaper.

In a Glass Dome

Place a small rolled or flat piece of wallpaper under a glass dome with an another object or ornament. This method adds a touch of curiosity and intrigue, almost as if preserving a piece of history for future generations. It’s perfect for samples with bold patterns or metallic accents, as the dome will highlight their depth and details.

In a Glass Frame

A floating glass frame allows the wallpaper sample to be viewed from both sides, ideal for designs with distinctive backing or multiple layers. This approach can create a stunning, museum-like effect that elevates the piece as a work of art.

In a Modern Frame

Antique wallpaper sample from 1924 - Natalia Willmott

Contrasting an antique wallpaper with a sleek, modern frame creates an eye-catching display. Choose a minimalist frame style in black, white, or metal to allow the wallpaper to take center stage. This mix of old and new adds an interesting visual dynamic to any room. This frame is called "My little Davinci" and is perfect to rotate art as it can contain up to 50 prints or drawings.

On a Shelf

Antique wallpaper sample from 1924 - Natalia Willmott

Simply leaning the wallpaper sample against the wall on a shelf adds a relaxed, informal touch. If you have multiple samples, you can even layer them for a collage effect that shows off a variety of patterns and colours. This is just a temporary display to add a little extra to a corner of your home.

On a Little Easel

A small easel can turn your wallpaper sample into a tabletop display, similar to displaying a piece of art. This method works especially well for smaller samples or those with intricate patterns, giving the wallpaper a unique and delicate presentation. Use clips to attach the wallpaper to thick card or cardboard to make it stronger and display in a bookshelf.


Displaying antique wallpaper samples is a way to add character to your decor while paying homage to a fascinating period in design history. Whether you choose a simple frame or a more unconventional method, these vintage treasures can bring a touch of nostalgia and elegance to any space.

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