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Using playing cards as wallpaper, how do I make it smooth?

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http://boards.diynetwork.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/3391013504/m/1383969367

Oct 16, 2012, 10:40 PM
LoveJoy5
Using playing cards as wallpaper, how do I make it smooth?
In my man cave, I wanted to create a different type of wallpaper... I have access to...thousands of casino playing cards, and was thinking of layering them all over the walls, and ceiling, so there will be NO wall showing underneath, or between cards. They won't be set close next to each other, but rather like "thrown" at the wall in no pattern or ryme.

My biggest issue, is tht there will be edges under the overlapping cards where pants, a shirt, or even a 2 year old could peel the cards off the wall.

Is there a roller clear coat that would seal that? Or another method that would be a better option? I'm thinking of using just a very small amount of glue to stick the cards to the wall/each other.
Oct 16, 2012, 11:54 PM
joecaption
There not likly to stay stuck because of the coating on the cards.
Use wall paper paste and try one out.

Something like this might work better.
http://www.muralsyourway.com/?...c&vsrefdom=googleppc

This message has been edited. Last edited by: joecaption,


joecaption
Oct 17, 2012, 08:31 AM
Jaybee
Other than putting a glass or plexiglass layer over the top of the cards you are not going to be able to get rid of the 'edge' of whatever cards are on the top layer. Any clear coat that can be applied to a vertical wall surface will be too thin to eliminate the thickness difference between the cards. Even multiple coats will not make it smooth - at least, they will not make it 'kid proof' if somebody wants to pick at the edge of a card.

I'd go for a very thorough glue job that covers all the edges and monitor anyone who goes into the room who may have the urge to peel your cards off the wall.


Jaybee
Oct 18, 2012, 10:17 PM
JB Builder
If the area is small such as a small accent wall perhaps 9x9 or something.
Then i guess you could get away with using acrylic resin and a paint brush along with a bunch of drop cloth and a handful of 20 dollar bills.
Good idea though. I would attempt a small area.
Oct 21, 2012, 08:52 PM
Conrad
An idea...To keep the layered ones flat to the wall:

I would lay the overlapping cards on a cutting mat and actually cut through them, where they intersect (discard the underneath layers). Then when you apply the cards, they will look like they are layered, but are actually butted up against each other and laying flat to the wall.
Oct 23, 2012, 11:35 AM
LoveJoy5
That might be doable. Then they may be flat enough to put a coat of something over the top? That would be TONS of work though. Cutting every card over the space of 3 walls... I'm loving the suggestions and ideas, just haven't decided what, or how yet.
Oct 23, 2012, 01:31 PM
Jaybee
How about finding actual wallpaper that has a playing card pattern?


Jaybee
Oct 23, 2012, 03:50 PM
LoveJoy5
That's boringWink This is custom for a custom man-cave...come'on nowWink
Oct 23, 2012, 07:46 PM
Jaybee
Then I think you should glue the cards on the wall with overlaps, spray a coat of clear poly over everything and keep the kids out of the room.


Jaybee