Decorate without leaving holes

Decorating a rented space can be a challenge, especially when you’re hesitant to put holes in the walls. Don’t let that discourage you from turning your rented house into a beautiful personal home & haven though. I want to encourage you to rise to the occasion and make your space yours with just a little bit of out of the box thinking! There are plenty of creative and temporary options that allow you to personalize your living space without leaving a mark. In this blog post, we’ll explore some innovative ways to decorate with wall art for renters who want to maintain their security deposit!

First, Prep the Walls

Before you jump into the fun part of decorating, you might need to do some prep work. It’s crucial to start with a clean canvas. Over time, walls can accumulate dust, dirt, and grime that may hinder the adhesion of adhesives like Command Strips. Begin by wiping the walls with a duster or soft cloth, paying attention to corners and edges.

For my home I use these E-cloths. With just a bit of water, you can easily scrub pencil, marker, fingerprint grime, food stains, and everything else off the wall without damaging the paint or the drywall. (I have 4 very busy little kids and they have been a lifesaver!)  For more stubborn stains, use a mild mixture of water and a gentle dish soap to wipe down the surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges to prevent any unintended damage. Once the walls are clean and dry, you’ll have a smooth and pristine surface ready to showcase your wall art without any interference. Taking this extra step ensures that your chosen decorating method adheres securely, maximizing both the aesthetic appeal and longevity of your temporary decor.

Command Strips and Hooks:

Command Strips and Hooks have become a renter’s best friend when it comes to decorating without causing damage. These adhesive strips can hold a surprising amount of weight and are easily removable without leaving any residue. They come in various sizes, making them suitable for different types of wall art. Here’s a few ideas to get you started.

Use these heavy duty hooks to create a gallery space for pictures and small pieces of wall art. Just apply hooks evenly across a space and string twine or wire from one to another to connect them. Then simply use small clips or clothespins to hang pictures or small artwork (packs of greeting cards work great for this!)

These Command strips for picture hanging can handle up to 20 pounds and a 16×24 in picture frame. Use them for a single picture or check out my blog post on creating a gallery wall for a ton of inspiration on designing your own eye-catching display.

Removable Wallpaper:

For a bold and impactful statement, consider using removable wallpaper. It adds personality to your space without the commitment of traditional wallpaper. When it’s time to move out, simply peel it off without any damage to the walls. There are countless designs available to suit any style, from classic to contemporary. You can buy unique creative wallpaper on websites like society6, redbubble, or spoonflower.

Use Washi Tape:

Washi tape can be a renter’s best friend! It can be applied and removed so easily without leaving a trace of residue. The options for using washi tape on your renter friendly home decor projects are endless.

• Turn the walls into a fantastic backdrop to feature your wall art. Use stripes of Washi tape to create faux shiplap or beadboard. Create bold geometric shapes with washi tape for a modern eye catching design. Use small pieces to make a more subtle pattern on the wall to compliment your art.
• Enhance your doors. If you have plain flat doors you can create a faux inlay by applying washi tape in rectangle shapes on the face of the door. Choose a strong contrasting colors for a bold look or add subtle class with a light grey.
• Frame your wall art. . This colorful and patterned tape is a fantastic alternative to framing, allowing you to arrange and rearrange your artwork without damaging the walls. It’s an affordable and versatile option that adds a playful touch to your decor.

Lean and Layer:

Avoid the need for wall attachments altogether by leaning artwork against the walls or on furniture. Posters in light frames propped up on shelves, your desk, the mantle, etc can add a lot of impact easily. This laid-back approach not only adds a casual vibe to your space but also allows for easy changes whenever you feel like updating your decor.

Hanging Fabric Panels:

Transform your walls with hanging fabric panels. Use curtain rods or adhesive hooks to suspend lightweight fabrics, tapestries, or scarves for a bohemian-chic look. You can use lengths of patterned fabric that compliment your style or purchase panels of fabric with large designs. Finish the edges or just fold over and iron the unfinished edges. This option not only adds texture and color but also brings a cozy and personalized feel to your space. Check out websites like spoonflower or society6 for great fabric panels.

Command Picture Ledges:

Command Picture Ledges are a fantastic alternative to traditional shelves, especially where space is tight. They can hold framed photos, small plants, and other decorative items without damaging the walls. Plus, they allow for easy rearrangement whenever you want to switch things up.

Decorating your rented space without causing damage to the walls is entirely possible with a bit of creativity and the right tools. From removable adhesives to leaning artwork and using innovative materials, there are plenty of options to make your space feel like home. Embrace these ideas, and let your personality shine through your unique and damage-free wall art arrangements. Happy decorating!