What are the main types of printed wallpaper?

In the field of modern interior decoration, printed wallpaper is increasingly favored by home and commercial space designers due to its rich patterns, diverse materials, and personalized customization advantages. Compared to traditional wallpaper, printed wallpaper can achieve high-precision, multi-color pattern presentation through digital technology, making space design more creative and expressive. So, what are the main types of printed wallpaper, and what are their characteristics in terms of materials, processes, and application scenarios?

I. Types of Printed Wallpaper Based on Materials The material of printed wallpaper directly affects its feel, durability, and visual effect. Currently, common materials on the market mainly include PVC wallpaper, non-woven wallpaper, and cellulose-based wallpaper.

PVC wallpaper is a synthetic wallpaper made primarily of polyvinyl chloride. Its surface is smooth, allowing for the printing of complex patterns, and it possesses waterproof, moisture-proof, and stain-resistant functions, making it suitable for high-humidity environments such as kitchens and bathrooms. PVC wallpaper also has advantages in color performance, capable of presenting vivid color gradations and fine pattern details.

Non-woven wallpaper, on the other hand, is based on fiber materials, forming a fabric-like structure through a pressing process. These types of wallpaper are breathable and environmentally friendly, and are easier to install and remove without soaking in water or adding glue. Their smooth surface allows for high-definition printing, enhancing artistic effects, making them suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, and commercial spaces.

Cellulose-based wallpaper, on the other hand, uses natural plant fibers as raw materials, emphasizing environmental protection and ecological concepts. This type of wallpaper has a rich surface texture and a soft touch, presenting natural textures and high-end artistic effects. The printing process typically uses environmentally friendly water-based inks to ensure vibrant colors and harmlessness to the human body, making it particularly suitable for high-end residences and public spaces.

II. Types of Printed Wallpaper Based on Printing Processes Printed wallpapers not only vary in material, but their printing processes also affect the final visual effect. Mainstream printing methods include inkjet printing, screen printing, and thermal transfer printing.

Inkjet printing technology, with digital control at its core, precisely sprays ink onto the wallpaper surface through a printhead, enabling high-resolution patterns. Its advantages include natural color transitions, strong detail, and the ability to achieve personalized customization. Inkjet-printed wallpaper suits various interior design styles, especially in modern, European, and artistic spaces.

Screen printing is a traditional printing process that transfers ink onto wallpaper through a screen, achieving repeated printing of patterns. It boasts rich colors and distinct layers, making it suitable for mass production of wallpapers with fixed patterns. Screen-printed wallpaper excels in durability and color stability, and is widely used in public spaces and commercial venues.

Thermal transfer printing uses high temperatures to transfer ink from transfer paper to the wallpaper surface. This process achieves high-precision color reproduction, clear patterns, and wear resistance, and is suitable for various wallpaper materials. Thermal transfer technology is particularly suitable for printing large murals and complex patterns, creating a visually impactful space.

III. Types of Printed Wallpaper by Application Scenarios Printed wallpaper can also be classified according to its application scenario. Different scenarios have different requirements for the wallpaper's material, process, and performance.

Printed wallpaper for home decoration emphasizes comfort and artistry. Bedroom and living room wallpaper focuses on color matching and spatial atmosphere, enhancing the living experience through soft textures and exquisite patterns. Wallpapers used in kitchens and bathrooms prioritize moisture resistance, mildew resistance, and ease of cleaning, typically opting for PVC materials or specially treated wallpapers.

Printed wallpapers for commercial spaces emphasize visual impact and brand expression. Office, hotel, and restaurant wallpapers not only need high-quality patterns but also require wear resistance and ease of maintenance. Choosing high-definition inkjet printing or heat transfer technology ensures that the wallpaper maintains vibrant colors and exquisite details for a long time.

Public spaces such as exhibition halls, hospitals, and schools place higher demands on the environmental friendliness, durability, and safety of printed wallpapers. Non-woven wallpapers and cellulose-based wallpapers have advantages in environmental friendliness and ease of cleaning, meeting the functional needs of public spaces while maintaining aesthetics.

IV. Development Trends of Printed Wallpapers
With the development of digital technology and environmental protection concepts, printed wallpapers are showing a trend towards diversification and personalization. On the one hand, the widespread use of high-definition inkjet printing, UV printing, and digital design tools has enriched wallpaper patterns, meeting personalized customization needs. On the other hand, the application of environmentally friendly water-based inks, renewable materials, and biodegradable materials is driving the development of wallpaper towards a green and environmentally friendly direction.

Functional wallpapers are also gradually emerging. Printed wallpapers with fire-retardant, mildew-proof, antibacterial, and sound-insulating properties are gradually meeting the diverse needs of residential and commercial spaces. These functional wallpapers, combined with advanced printing technology, not only enhance the visual experience but also improve the safety and comfort of the space.

With its diverse materials, refined printing processes, and wide range of applications, printed wallpaper has become an important choice for modern interior decoration. From PVC wallpaper to non-woven wallpaper, and then to cellulose-based environmentally friendly wallpaper, each type meets different design needs while showcasing the fusion of technology and art. With the development of digitalization and environmental trends, printed wallpaper will play an even more important role in future home and commercial spaces, becoming a vital medium for interior decoration innovation and aesthetic expression.