How can I make regular wallpaper stain/water resistant?

[mosaica]

Hi,

I fell in love with this wallpaper www.wallpaperdirect.com/products/orla-kiely/acorn-spot/94301 and it is now on my kitchen walls. I am embarrassed to say that I didn't check if it was suitable for kitchens - unfortunately it isn't and it looks quite porous. Is there any wonder product, maybe some matt varnish or something like that, which will protect it against stains?

Thanks!

[mosaica]

www.wallpaperdirect.com/products/orla-kiely/acorn-spot/94301

[TheWookiesWife]

If you have it as back splash - then add glass splash back - or Perspex if you are on a budget on top ! Or Test on a scrap piece first - but - thinned down PVA glue might work - 50/50 (PVA /water) - or artists fix spray ?!?
Hope those help ! :-)

[ShimmeringInTheSun]

Pva is water soluble so even though it dries clear, if it is in a damp situation or the surface you've coated it with becomes wet, it will turn white and begin to turn back to it's original state. It sometimes takes on a yellow tinge too.

Why not try out some test pieces of wallpaper with various finishes - like the varnish you mention - and leave them in the kitchen and see what happens.

If it's going to be applied near the cooker you will need to make sure it's heat/flame resistant too!

[mosaica]

Hi, thanks! The wallpaper is not in direct contact with water or heat - it's been put on walls well away from the sink and cooker. But I've got three children under five - finger marks and general grubbiness gp my main worry. Xxx