Differentiating Pattern Repeat and Pattern Match

PATTERN REPEAT

The pattern repeat is simply a number (e.g. 26 cm, 52 cm, etc.), that tells you how far apart the same section of the design appears again along the length of the wallpaper. The pattern repeat is indicated by a numerical value (e.g. 26 cm, 52cm, etc.), and represents the distance before a specific section of the design recurs along the length of the wallpaper. The distance can change depending on how many times the design is printed onto the cylinder or screen.

For instance, let's say the print cylinder has a circumference of 60 cm. If the design is engraved into the cylinder four times, the circumference (60 cm) being divisible by four means the design repeats every 15cm.

If the design repeats three times, simply divide 60 cm by three to get a 20cm pattern repeat.

If the design only repeats once, then the pattern will have a 60 cm repeat.

PATTERN MATCH

The pattern match is typically indicated in one of three ways:

1. As a written direction – e.g. ‘half drop’, ‘free match’ etc.

2. As a symbol

3. Or as a combination of both

The pattern match serves to pinpoint where the matching section of the design aligns with the opposite side of the wallpaper, typically across its width. In many instances, wallpapers are cut through the design to facilitate an easier match during installation.

It's important to note that manufacturers might label the product as 'pattern match' but actually display the repeat, or vice versa, which can lead to confusion.

FOUR COMMON PATTERN MATCH DESCRIPTIONS

A straight match occurs when the matching half of the design aligns on the same horizontal plane as the other side. On the contrary, if the matching section of the design falls between the two corresponding points in relation to the other side of the sheet, it constitutes an offset match or half-drop.

Learn more about wallpapers in our previous articles: How to clean and protect your wallcoverings, Calculating Wallpaper Requirements: A Step by Step Guide.