Digital Printing on Natural Wallcovering

Made from biodegradable fibers, grasses, pulp blends, or non-PVC formulations, natural wallcoverings are ideal for residential spaces, boutique interiors, wellness environments, and any project where sustainability is part of the brief.

Explore printable natural wallcovering options now in the Natural Wallcovering category on Substrate Bank.

What Are Natural Wallcoverings?

Natural wallcoverings refer to substrates made from plant-based or biodegradable materials, or those designed to be PVC-free and low in environmental impact. These include:

Grasscloth and woven fibers
Cork veneer
Recycled paper wallcoverings
Non-woven cellulose-based materials
PVC-free coated substrates

Most are coated or engineered to support latex, UV, or eco-solvent printing, and offer unique surface textures, earthy tones, and a handcrafted feel.

Browse wallcoverings and use filters for eco-conscious or PVC-free options.

Advantages of Natural Wallcoverings

Sustainable materials: Often made from renewable, recycled, or biodegradable resources
Low environmental impact: PVC-free, REACH-compliant, and recyclable options available
Unique textures and finishes: Adds warmth and visual depth not found in synthetics
Excellent for boutique branding: Perfect for wellness, hospitality, and design-forward spaces
Improved indoor air quality: Often free from off-gassing and VOCs

Challenges and Considerations

Challenge	Notes
Inconsistent surface texture	Irregularities may affect print uniformity — use high-opacity inks and white underlayers where needed
Limited cleanability	Natural fibers are less resistant to water and scrubbing — not suited for high-touch environments
Dimensional movement	Materials may expand/contract slightly with humidity — professional install is recommended
Cost and availability	Often more premium-priced and regionally sourced — lead times may vary
Print prep may vary	Not all natural materials are pre-coated for direct printing — verify print-readiness on Substrate Bank

Where Natural Wallcoverings Add Value

1. Sustainable Residential Interiors

Designers and print brands offering eco-conscious wall murals and décor find natural wallcoverings a perfect fit for clients who care about health and impact.

2. Boutique Retail & Wellness Brands

Spa, yoga, and organic lifestyle brands can reinforce their values with materials made from real fibers — printed in soft, earthy tones.

3. Hospitality Spaces with Storytelling

Hotels, restaurants, and resorts are increasingly using natural surfaces to convey local flavor, artisanal quality, and a grounded sense of place.

4. Green Building Projects

Wallcoverings that are PVC-free, FSC-certified, or biodegradable help support LEED, WELL, and BREEAM standards for environmentally certified buildings.

Best Practices for Printing on Natural Wallcoverings

Use latex or UV printers for better adhesion on textured or fibrous surfaces
Consider white ink underlay to improve color accuracy on tinted or uneven bases
Always check fire-retardancy and coating status before specifying for public spaces
Use a professional installer familiar with natural fiber expansion and trimming
Recommend dry environments and gentle care for long-term aesthetic retention

Explore Natural Wallcoverings on Substrate Bank

With Substrate Bank, you can:

Filter wallcoverings by eco-friendly, PVC-free, or biodegradable materials
Compare surface textures from smooth to grasscloth or cork
Discover which products are certified low-VOC or recyclable
Match substrates to compatible digital print methods and project types

Final Thought: Design That Feels Good and Does Good

Natural wallcoverings do more than enhance the space — they reflect the values behind the design. They feel grounded, authentic, and intentional — offering visual warmth and a quieter environmental footprint.

With Substrate Bank, you get the insights and tools to create walls that aren’t just beautiful — but responsible, too.