Decorative Tapestries

Transform Your Space: Best Decorative Tapestries to Buy in the UK

Why decorative tapestries are having a moment

Have you noticed how a single piece of fabric can change the whole mood of a room? Decorative tapestries are the secret shortcut to personality — they add texture, color, and a focal point without the fuss of heavy renovations. Whether you’re after a boho beach vibe, a minimalist Scandi look, or a bold statement piece, tapestries do the heavy lifting. They’re lightweight, easy to swap out, and kinder to walls than nails and heavy frames. Sound like magic? That’s because it kind of is.

Sizes and materials: choosing the right tapestry for your wall

Common sizes you’ll see

Picking the right size is half the battle. Here are some common sizes you’ll encounter and what they mean in real life: small accent pieces around 22 x 27 inches are perfect above side tables or in nooks; medium hangings about 39 x 39 inches suit a hallway or small wall; larger tapestries in the 39 x 49 inch to 47 x 67 inch range can anchor a sofa or bedroom wall; and statement pieces around 39 x 55 inches to 39 x 65 inches create an instant gallery wall effect. When in doubt, hold up a blanket or sheet of similar size and see how it feels in the space.

Materials and feel

Tapestries come in everything from lightweight linen and cotton to heavier woven blends and tapestry-weight fabrics. Linen and cotton feel breathable and relaxed — great for Scandi and boho looks — while thicker woven tapestries bring texture and depth, especially in rooms with high ceilings or echo-prone surfaces. Some also double as throw blankets, which is handy when a cold evening hits. Think soft vs. structured and choose what you want the room to "say."

Featured store: Nordic Nest — Scandi style and curated picks

Nordic Nest is a go-to destination for Scandinavian-inspired homeware in the UK, and they stock a great mix of brands and designs that suit modern, pared-back interiors as well as warm, layered looks. Expect clean lines, muted palettes, and playful prints — perfect if you like your decor to feel calm but considered. Some examples of pieces you might find there include wall hangings roughly 39 x 55 inches, tapestry blankets around 47 x 67 inches, and playful children’s wall decorations in smaller sizes about 22 x 27 inches. These picks work well if you want a curated, cohesive look without wrestling with too many choices.

Brands carried by Scandinavian boutiques

Brands like Ferm Living, Oyoy, Fine Little Day, and Classic Collection often appear at specialist retailers. Ferm Living blends modern geometry and soft palettes; Oyoy brings whimsical motifs and kid-friendly prints; Fine Little Day leans into hand-drawn charm; and Classic Collection offers timeless, simple hangings. If you’re chasing a cohesive living room or nursery aesthetic, following these brands is a smart move — they tend to play nicely together.

Where else to buy decorative tapestries in the UK

You don’t have to limit yourself to one shop. Here are several reputable UK retailers and marketplaces where tapestries pop up regularly, from budget-friendly finds to investment pieces.

John Lewis & Partners — reliable quality and variety

John Lewis is a dependable place to start if you want a mix of trend-led and classic designs. You’ll find mid-range woven hangings, tapestry blankets, and framed textile art. Their range often includes pieces sized to work above sofas and beds, and the product descriptions usually make it easy to picture scale.

Made.com — modern designs with statement potential

Made offers contemporary and often bold pieces that suit modern apartments and open-plan living. Look here if you want a design-forward tapestry with strong color or graphic prints that’ll be the room’s focal point. They’re a good spot for larger hangings that anchor a room.

Dunelm — budget-friendly and practical

If you’re testing the waters or redecorating on a budget, Dunelm stocks an accessible range of textile wall art and woven throws that double as tapestries. Their pieces are often versatile and friendly to different decorating styles, from casual to cottage-core.

Wayfair UK — huge selection, great for browsing

Wayfair is like an online bazaar for homewares. You’ll find an enormous variety of styles, sizes, and prices. The volume makes it easy to compare and experiment, but it helps to filter carefully and read reviews to avoid surprises.

Etsy — handmade and one-of-a-kind finds

Want something truly unique? Etsy connects you with independent makers across the UK and beyond. You can commission custom sizes or bespoke colorways, which is fantastic if you have odd wall dimensions or want a tapestry that matches a specific palette.

Anthropologie UK — statement and artisan pieces

Anthropologie blends bohemian charm with artisan craft. Their tapestries lean into rich colors, embroidery, and global-inspired patterns — perfect for anyone after a dramatic, lived-in look. These pieces often become conversation starters.

The Range and Homesense — bargain hunters’ favorites

For seasonal finds and offbeat treasures, The Range and Homesense (part of the TK Maxx family) are worth checking. You might spot an unexpected gem at a very attractive price if you’re willing to hunt a little.

How to style a tapestry in different rooms

Living room: anchor your seating area

Want the sofa to feel grounded? Hang a tapestry centered above the sofa that’s roughly two-thirds to three-quarters the width of the seating. For example, a 47 x 67 inch piece works beautifully above a standard three-seat couch, giving the space balance without overwhelming it. Pair with layered lighting and a few cushions that echo the tapestry’s tones.

Bedroom: create a cozy headboard alternative

Tapestries make excellent headboard substitutes. A piece around 39 x 55 inches or larger can provide a soft, textured backdrop without the permanence of wood or upholstery. The result? A relaxed, hotel-like vibe that’s easy to change when you want a fresh look.

Hallway and stairwell: make the most of vertical space

Longer tapestries, like ones near 39 x 65 inches, emphasize height and lead the eye upward — ideal for stairwells or narrow hallways. Lighter colors can keep the area feeling open while textured weaves add character.

Nursery and kids’ rooms: playful but practical

Smaller hangings about 22 x 27 inches are perfect above changing tables, low shelves, or reading nooks. Choose soft, washable fabrics or wall-mounted pieces that are out of reach to keep things safe and tidy.

How to hang your tapestry like a pro

Rod and pocket method

If your tapestry has a sewn pocket, sliding a wooden or metal rod through it creates a classic look. This method spreads weight evenly and keeps the fabric flat. Use wall anchors rated for the rod’s weight, and you’ll have a secure, gallery-style finish.

Clip rings or curtain clips

For pieces without a pocket, clip rings are your friend. They’re quick, adjustable, and easy to remove if you like to swap art frequently. Clips also let you center the design precisely without visible screws or heavy hardware.

Velcro strips and fabric tape

Velcro offers a low-profile solution for lightweight tapestries. It keeps the fabric taut without puncturing it, which is great for rentals. Just clean the wall first, stick the strips, and press the tapestry into place. For heavier fabrics, combine Velcro with a couple of discreet nails up top.

Framing or stretcher bars

Want an ultra-polished look? Stretch the tapestry over a simple wooden frame. This gives you a framed-art appearance and protects the edges from wear. It’s a slightly more permanent choice but makes textiles feel like high-end wall art.

Caring for tapestries: cleaning and maintenance

Textile care varies by material, but here are universal tips to keep your tapestry looking fresh: spot-clean spills immediately with mild soap and cold water; avoid bleach and hot water to stop colors fading; air garments and tapestries regularly to prevent mustiness; and store rolled rather than folded to prevent permanent creases. If a piece is delicate or vintage, consider professional textile cleaning. Regular gentle vacuuming on a low-power setting with a soft brush can also remove dust without stressing the weave.

Budgeting and investing: how much you should expect to spend

Tapestry prices range wildly. You can find affordable, machine-made pieces for a modest sum, while artisan woven hangings and designer-brand textiles command higher prices. Expect to pay a reasonable amount for good-quality materials and craftsmanship — think of a tapestry as a long-term purchase that transforms a room more cheaply than repainting or replacing furniture. If you’re investing in a statement piece from a known designer or handmade work from an artisan, prices reflect the labor and uniqueness, and it often pays off in personality and resale appeal.

Mixing tapestries with other wall decor

Tapestries play nicely with shelves, mirrors, and framed art. Use them as the hero and arrange smaller pictures or floating shelves around the edges, or layer a tapestry underneath a lighter framed print for depth. If the tapestry is bold, keep adjacent decorations minimal to avoid visual noise. Think of tapestries as the stage: other decor are the supporting cast.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Here are a few pitfalls people fall into and how to sidestep them: choosing the wrong scale (too small above a large couch), hanging too high (aim for the tapestry’s center to be around eye level), or ignoring light exposure (sun can fade fibers over time). Also, don’t forget the power of contrast — a soft, neutral tapestry can look stunning against a dark wall, and vice versa.

Quick buying checklist

Before you click buy, ask yourself: What size will fit my space? Is the material easy to care for? Does the color palette work with existing furniture? Can I return it if it doesn’t work (check the retailer’s policy)? Is there an option to commission a custom size if I need something specific? A short checklist keeps impulse buys from becoming buyer’s remorse.

Conclusion

Decorative tapestries are an easy, high-impact way to refresh your home. Whether you prefer the clean, muted look of Scandinavian designs or the rich, textured feel of artisan weaves, there’s a tapestry out there to match your style and space. Shop specialist retailers for curated selections, browse marketplaces for bargains or unique finds, and don’t be afraid to mix sizes and textures. With the right hang and a little styling, a tapestry can lift an entire room — like adding a signature accessory to an outfit. Give it a try; you might be surprised how much a single piece can change the mood of your home.