Fabric wall coverings such as hessian (which is made from jute), linen, silk and satin, provide a range of coloured or neutral textured wall effects, and, furthermore, hessian can be painted with either gloss or emulsion. Fabric wall coverings should not be hung on newly plastered walls. Allow the walls to dry out for at least six months then rub them with a medium abrasive paper and apply an alkali- resistant primer. Unbacked fabric coverings should be hung on walls that have been lined first and it's a good idea to use lining paper that's the same colour as the top cover so if the joins do pull apart or shrinkage occurs, the gaps will be less noticeable. Paper-backed fabrics are available, but while these are more expensive, they are easier to hang and the paper backing prevents creases and wrinkling. Paste can be applied to paper-backed fabrics rather than to the wall, but it's important that the fabric does not become too wet. Use a felt-covered roller to smooth out each fabric length taking care not to press too hard or you can stretch the fabric and may cause the paste to seep from the joins.
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