The term random reversible relates to the random match type of wallpaper or wallcovering. Random match refers specifically to the type of pattern, while random reversible pertains to how the wallpaper or wallcovering should be hung when it is applied to the wall. It is easily the quickest wallcovering to hang because the strips are made so that you don’t have to work around restrictions. Random patterns are the best for people who haven’t hung wallpaper before or who don’t have a lot of time for the project.
Identifying Random Reversible
You don’t have to identify the pattern to determine if it should be hung according to the random reversible method. Typically, there is a symbol with the hanging method listed. However, you can typically tell without the symbol if several strips are lined up together. For example, stripes and grasscloth are hung using the random reversible method.
Quick Word of Warning
Keep in mind that you will need to pay attention to the specific instructions for your wallpaper or covering because of the type of backing it has. The pattern and how you need to work with it only take into account the exterior appearance. For the best results, you need to follow the directions based on the kind of backing your wallpaper or wallcovering has. Osnaburg and nonwoven have different requirements; in fact, nonwoven has a wide range of instructions based on whether the paste is pre-applied or if you need to add the paste before you hang the paper.
Hanging Random Reversible Paper
Easily the type of hanging that will generate the least waste, hanging wallpaper with this method requires that you have strips of equal lengths so that they are even at the top and the bottom. Ensuring that the top and bottom align and that you don’t overlap the paper is really the only concern with this particular pattern. You should reverse the direction of every other strip to keep small discrepancies from standing out, such as color variations.
Imagine strips of wallpaper where each strip looks exactly the same. You don’t have to worry about making sure that any part of the pattern matches the previous strip because they are virtually identical. Your only real concern is that each strip starts and ends at the same points.
At Least Half Matches of Commercial Wallpaper Are “Random Match”
As the easiest method of hanging wallpaper, it is clear why random match is the preferred pattern. Many companies, especially ones on a tight budget, want to minimize waste and save time. Wallcoverings that have straight match or half drop match can take up to 30% more product than wallcoverings with random reversible matches.