How to Hang Things on “Popcorn” Walls?

published Aug 22, 2015

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

Q: Hey peeps! So, I have very old, textured walls, as if sand was mixed in the wall paint… like a “popcorn” ceiling-like texture. I had put up a large (expensive) mural with double-sided tape, THEN velco-tabs, and even screws and they all failed to keep it up there! I imagine those Command wall strips would react the same way…

I am considering using black electrical tape, hanging posters with that tape to resemble a black frame. That is the only tape or material that will stick somewhat well. The walls, by the way, are covered in some kind of plaster-like treatment, that crumbles too easily like chalk when a nail or screw is attempted!!! UGh, help. -Sent by Dano

Editor: This is one of those Not Many People If Any Have This Exact Problem But Surely Other People Are Dealing With Something Similar types of Good Questions — like, there are definitely other people out there dealing with crumbling, adhesive-repelling, and/or otherwise unreasonable walls, right? I lived in an apartment that had a wall stuffed with newspaper with just, like, a layer of paint over it, and my current living room has plaster walls that can’t support any weight. Any suggestions for ways for Dano to adorn the sandy, chalky walls? Thanks!

• Have a question for our community? Send us yours with a photo or two attached (questions with photos get answered first).