DECORATING : Embellishing Character of Walls

Walls can be given the luxurious look of 19th-century embossed finishes--applied plaster, pressed tin, woven mat, carved wood or leather--by covering them with wall coverings called Anaglypta or Lincrusta.

These embossed wall coverings have been manufactured exclusively in England for more than 100 years. The pattern selections range from classic Victorian to contemporary.

Anaglypta (“ana” meaning raised, and “glypta” meaning cameo) is made from a sturdy paper designed to be color coordinated after hanging. Painting, tinting or burnishing these papers creates the effect of metal, delicately sculptured plaster or multitone glaze over relief designs.

Anaglypta papers actually grow stronger with each top coat, extending the life of the paper well beyond the life of the next color trend. A variety of Anaglypta styles and weights cover a range of household needs, from high-moisture kitchens and baths, to high-traffic hallways, to ceilings. Unlike lighter conventional wallpapers, these thicker papers conceal cracks and blemishes in walls and ceilings.

Lincrusta (“lin” meaning flat, and “crusta” meaning relief) is a heavy-duty version of Anaglypta. It is made of materials similar to linoleum. It holds up well in areas that have heavy traffic. Lincrusta also can be redecorated indefinitely, and most patterns are washable.

To hang Anaglypta and Lincrusta, prepare the walls just as you would for wallpapering. Then the paper is simply hung, primed and painted. While borders lend themselves to do-it-yourself abilities, the manufacturer recommends hiring a professional to hang the paper on walls and ceilings.

Both Anaglypta and Lincrusta are available in a variety of sizes. Borders range from 5 1/2 inches to 20 7/8 inches wide. Wall coverings are packaged in European double rolls, usually 20 1/2 inches wide and 33 feet long. Dados in both Anaglypta and Lincrusta come in panels.

Anaglypta runs from $20 to $40 per double roll (56 square feet.) Lincrusta costs about $35 per bolt for a border 33 feet long and $95 per bolt for a frieze 33 feet long.

Crown Berger, Ltd., of England, manufactures and distributes both papers throughout the United States and Canada. For a list of dealers on the West Coast, call Classic Ceilings at 1-800-992-8700.