Will our decals stick? the ultimate guide to wall textures
DECALS + WALL TEXTURE
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Why Texture Matters
Decals love smooth surfaces. They’re like best friends with satin-finish paint, glass, mirrors, and flat drywall. But when the wall has large bumps, dips, or extra texture, the adhesive can’t get that full, satisfying grip it needs to stay put long-term.
The short version:
• Smooth = Stick success!
• Light to Medium Texture = Stick success!
• Heavy Texture = There's a chance. Try a test.
| Wall Texture: | Stick check: | Hot take: |
|---|---|---|
Smooth
|
YES
|
These are best friends with decals. Smooth walls = happiest installs.
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Knockdown
|
YES
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The majority of knockdown walls are a great decal match. The flat parts stick beautifully. If your knockdown has high relief, this might make sticking difficult. You can always test with a sample.
|
Orange Peel
|
YES
|
Often a solid match. Little bumps? Totally fine. Bigger ones can nudge edges up over time. A quick stickiness sample test is your best bet. You can always test with a sample.
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Painted Cinderblock
|
YES
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Cinderblock is the hallway hero of schools everywhere. Once it’s been painted smooth-ish over the years, decals usually stick for a long, happy stretch. Teachers use them all the time.
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Popcorn and Heavy Stucco
|
NO
|
Sorry, not a match made in heaven. Unfortunately… decals don’t love big texture. Too bumpy, too unpredictable, and the decals have trouble holding on.
|
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TIPS + TRICKS
• Always apply decals to clean, dry, dust-free walls.
• Avoid freshly painted surfaces — wait at least 2 weeks.
• If your wall is textured, try pressing decals down with a felt squeegee or soft cloth for extra adhesion. -
As we land this little lesson…
Every wall has its own personality, and we love that! The key is finding out if your wall and our decals are a match. When in doubt, reach out! We’re always happy to help you figure it out (and send a little test sample if needed).
After all, the goal is to make your walls as happy as your kids are when they see their new room.
NEVER APPLIED DECALS BEFORE? IT'S A QUICK INSTALL
Follow these 4 easy steps to install your removable decals in minutes.
Quick & easy prep. Wipe your wall with a clean cloth to make sure it is dust free.
Plan ahead. It helps to have a rough idea of the way you want your wall to look.
Peel, stick and place. You can reposition with ZERO damage to your wall.
Pro tip: Place decals lightly. Reposition until they're just right. Then, smooth them to wall.
Smile! You did it.
OUR HAPPY CUSTOMERS SAY IT BEST
We know how tricky it is to design a child’s room
Decorating your child's room should be joyful, not stressful. Mej Mej's removable wall decals give you the charm of wallpaper without the commitment and the creativity of paint without the mess. They peel, stick, and move wherever you want-transforming any room into a magical world that grows with your child.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE MEJ MEJ DECALS
Made By Artists
Created from our original artwork
Safe & Gentle
Non-toxic, PVC-free, safe for kids
Fast Shipping
We ship within 3 days of purchase
Lovingly Made
Designed & printed in our studio
Happy Surprise
Looks hand-painted directly on wall
Sturdy Packaging
Sturdy tube doubles as decal storage
Made By Artists
Created from our original artwork
Safe & Gentle
Non-toxic, PVC-free, safe for kids
Fast Shipping
We ship within 3 days of purchase
Lovingly Made
Designed & printed in our studio
Happy Surprise
Looks hand-painted directly on wall
Sturdy Packaging
Sturdy tube doubles as decal storage
Meet The Artists
Cathy Heck and Julianna Larsen are the mother-daughter team behind Mej Mej. Julianna grew up in her mother's studio watching Cathy work as an illustrator for over 30 years. Together, they founded Mej Mej to help families create joyful, beautiful spaces with their original designs. From watercolor and block prints to digital art, their work is filled with playfulness and warmth. Cathy’s husband, Jim, and Julianna’s husband, Anton, complete the team, all sharing a passion for bringing exceptional, high-quality designs to families around the world.