This “Simple” Kitchen DIY Uses Wallpaper in the Most Unexpected Way

Stainless steel appliances have long been markers of upgraded, modern kitchens. If you’ve ever done the white-to-stainless fridge swap, it kind of feels like you’ve made it. However, for those of you who are firmly planted in the cottagecore, old-world aesthetic, that very same stainless steel could be dragging you down. 

But what’s the alternative? One Instagram user shared how she used wallpaper to make her stainless steel fridge better reflect her cozy style — and once you see how it turned out, you’ll want to try this DIY immediately.

And she’s not the only one who has achieved the look. Apartment Therapy editors have toured beautiful homes that showcase how a bit of colorful wallpaper can completely transform a boring fridge — like in this New York City apartment!

“It’s about time I put together a how-to Reel for one of my most asked questions …the fridge!” Gabby from Klapper Kottage on Instagram shared in a recent caption. “It really is the simplest, yet most high-impact projects we’ve done! All it is, is some peel-and-stick wallpaper.”

Gabby used a gingham print peel-and-stick wallpaper on both fridge doors to completely hide that cold stainless steel finish. And she spray-painted the handles with bronze paint and a sealant to make them match her kitchen’s brass fittings.

“This project probably only took us one afternoon, too!” she wrote. “I hope you all enjoy wallpapering your fridges too!” 

“It makes the kitchen look so warm & inviting!” one person wrote in a comment. Another said, “The dreamiest fridge I’ve ever seen.”

Gabby picked up her peel-and-stick wallpaper from Target, but there are so many different patterns and brands available on Amazon, Wayfair, or even at your local hardware store. The gingham print is cute and cottage-y, but you could also try this DIY project with pinstripe paper, faux wood grain that matches your cabinets, or a floral print.

This beautifully bold kitchen in Brooklyn shows how this DIY styling trick also works on older white refrigerators, too. We’re totally obsessed!

Don’t let your stainless steel fridge get between you and your cottagecore dream aesthetic. Just pick up some peel-and-stick wallpaper, and turn your dream into a reality!