Faux vs. Natural Grasscloth Wallpaper: What's the Difference and Which Should You Buy?

Incorporating textured wallpaper into your interior design is a great way to add depth and warmth to your home. Grasscloth in particular, adds a distinct appeal that feels rich, organic, and timeless. But if you’ve been looking into textured wallpaper, you’ve probably come across two types of grasscloth wallcoverings: faux grasscloth and natural grasscloth.

Both wallpaper types offer stunning designs and rich texture, but they differ in some important ways that influence look, feel, and best uses. In this guide, we’re diving into the key differences between faux versus natural grasscloth so you can make the best decision for your space.

Design Benefits of Textured Wallpaper

There are many reasons why designers and homeowners are loving textured wallcoverings. From the subtle grooves of linen wallpaper to the deep dimension of grasscloth, a well-crafted textured wallcovering can create instant warmth and character in any room.

Here are some of design benefits of textured wallpaper:

• Adds visual interest without overpowering the space
• Creates a cozy atmosphere
• Conceals small wall imperfections
• Can provide sound control and reduce echo
• Interacts with natural light and shadow to create depth

What is Natural Grasscloth Wallpaper?

Natural grasscloth wallpaper is hand-woven using organic plant fibers such as jute, hemp, seagrass, or bamboo. The fibers are individually harvested and woven before being backed onto paper. This means each roll is slightly different, creating a unique texture that feels warm and authentic. 

Look and Feel

Much of the appeal of natural grasscloth wallpaper lies in the “imperfections” of its craftsmanship. The process gives you organic color variation and non-uniform grooving that lean into the natural look.

Pros

Natural grasscloth offers many benefits, including:

• An elevated, dimensional look
• Eco-friendly materials
• Natural sound control
• Timeless visual appeal

Cons

Before you jump into the world of natural grasscloth wallpaper, consider the following potential drawbacks:

• Vulnerable to moisture
• More difficult to clean
• Pricier than non-woven options
• May have visible seems
• Not suited to busy, humid spaces like bathrooms and kitchens

What is Faux Grasscloth Wallpaper

Faux grasscloth is made with synthetic fibers that are printed, bonded, and pressed together to mimic the texture and appearance of natural grasscloth. Because faux grasscloth is engineered rather than hand-woven, the wallpaper rolls are more uniform and offer greater durability and convenience.

Look and Feel

Faux grasscloth wallpapers offer a raised texture that creates warmth and dimension, closely resembling natural grasscloth. However, the colors and textures are consistent and uniform from roll to roll.

Pros

Here are some of the main advantages of choosing faux grasscloth over natural weaves:

• Better moisture-resistance
• Easier to install and clean
• Closely mimics the look of natural woven wallpapers
• More affordable
• Suitable for humid spaces like bathrooms and kitchens
• Cons

Depending on your specific priorities and aesthetic preferences, you may find that faux grasscloth comes with some disadvantages. These include:

• Lacks the organic variation of natural fibers
• May appear flatter than natural grasscloth on close inspection

4 Key Differences Between Faux and Natural Grasscloth

Now, let’s dive into a side-by-side comparison of these two wallpaper types, focusing on four major categories.

Materials

Natural grasscloth is made with woven, organic fibers like jute or seagrass, while faux grasscloth is made using synthetic blends such as vinyl and premium paper.

Texture

Natural grasscloth provides a rich texture that varies from roll to roll, adding an authentic, artisanal appearance. While faux grasscloth still has texture, it isn’t varied like naturally woven fibers, creating a more uniform look and feel.

Price

Because natural grasscloth is naturally harvested and hand-crafted, the manufacturing process is more intensive, which makes it pricier than faux variations. In some cases, faux grasscloth can retail for less than a quarter of the price of high-end natural weaves.

Durability

Faux grasscloth is significantly more durable than natural grasscloth. It can be made with moisture-resistant materials, which, unlike porous weaves, can stand up to high-traffic spaces like hallways and kid’s rooms or humid areas like bathrooms.

Which Is Right for Your Space?

Both natural and faux grasscloth wallpaper offer stunning texture, diverse prints and finishes, and high-quality materials that elevate any interior design. Ultimately, it all comes down to your budget, practical needs, application preferences, and personal style.

When To Choose Natural Grasscloth

Consider natural grasscloth if:

• You want an artisanal and organic vibe
• You plan to install it in a low-humidity room (bedrooms, living rooms, home offices)
• You love the idea of natural color and texture variations
• You’re working with professional installers
• Sustainability is a priority for you

When To Choose Faux Grasscloth

You may want to opt for faux grasscloth if any of the following apply to you:

• You’re designing a busy or humid space (bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms)
• You’re looking for an affordable alternative to natural grasscloth
• You want easy application and maintenance 
• You live with children and/or pets
• You need to balance texture with durability

Embrace the Enduring Appeal of Textured Wallpaper With Mitchell Black

Whether you find yourself drawn to the handcrafted, luxurious look of natural grasscloth or the practicality and versatility of faux grasscloth, choosing high-quality materials is key to getting the most out of your interior design. 

At Mitchell Black, you’ll find an extensive range of natural grasscloth and faux grasscloth wallpapers. Discover gorgeous prints, rich colorways, and stunning finishes to transform your space. 

Each roll is proudly made in the USA. Order samples now to see how your favorite designs look (and feel) in person and don’t hesitate to use our concierge service to get personalized support from a design expert.