In the excitement of redecorating a space, it’s tempting to skip straight to the fun part: choosing the wallpaper. But before you commit to a roll (or several), there’s one small, smart step that can save you time, money, and a lot of second-guessing: Order a swatch first.
Whether you’re a homeowner refreshing a cozy corner or an interior designer working on a client project, sampling the design in your actual space can make all the difference.
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Wallpaper always looks a little different in real life than it does on screen. A pattern that seems muted on your
laptop may read bolder when scaled up on the wall. Colors can shift slightly depending on the lighting in your room, the time of day, and even the direction your windows face.
Ordering a swatch allows you to see how the color, scale, texture, and finish feel in your space—not just how they look on a screen.
What to Look for in a Swatch
When your swatch arrives, take a few minutes to evaluate the details:
Color: Does the tone feel warmer or cooler in person? Does it match your flooring, upholstery, or trim?
Pattern Scale: How large or small are the design elements? Will it be too bold or too subtle on a full wall?
Finish: Different wallpaper types have slightly different textures. Feel the surface—does it fit the mood you want to create?
Print Quality: Spoonflower uses high-quality digital printing, but seeing a physical sample gives you peace of mind before placing a larger order.
How Lighting & Scale Affect Perception
A pattern that looks perfect in a brightly lit studio might feel heavy in a dim hallway. Natural light shifts throughout the day, which can impact how both color and contrast appear.
Tip: Tape the swatch to the wall where you plan to install the wallpaper. Leave it up for a few days and view it at different times—morning, afternoon, and evening. Stand back and imagine the full wall. Does it create the mood you’re after?
How to Order Swatches on Spoonflower
Spoonflower makes it easy to preview any design with a small sample before you commit. Here's how:
Select the wallpaper design you love
Choose your wallpaper type (e.g., Peel & Stick, Grasscloth, Traditional Pasted)
Select “Sample” as the size option (each sample swatch is 24" x 12")
Place your order—Spoonflower ships quickly!
Each swatch shows the actual design at full scale, so you’ll see exactly what you’re getting before you decide.
My Personal Tip
Even as a designer, I always test my own patterns in real spaces before committing to a full installation. A design may look serene and understated on screen, but when sampled in a softly lit bedroom, the texture may come to life in the most beautiful way. Similarly, if you’re eyeing something bold, seeing the swatch on your wall will help you decide whether you want to use it on one accent wall—or go all in.
FAQs:
Should I order a Test Swatch first?
Ordering a test swatch first is strongly encouraged. That way you can make sure the wallpaper type, color, and scale all meet your expectations in all types of light. You can also do a test installation on your unique surface.
Will a dent, scratch, or any other imperfections on my wall show through the paper?
Major wall imperfections may become noticeable once installing your wallpaper. It's best to prep your walls and make sure you have a smooth surface prior to installing. Keep in mind, it is recommended that you wait at least 4+ weeks for your paint to fully cure before starting any install.
Ready to Try It?
If you’ve found a design you love but you’re still unsure how it will feel in your space, start with a swatch. It’s a small investment that gives you clarity and confidence—and helps you fall in love with your space for real.
👉 You can order swatches of all my wallpaper designs here on Spoonflower.
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