We all know that dorm rooms can be pretty bland,  full of white or off-white space that isn’t much to look at.

A boring space like that isn’t exactly inspiring, productive, or even homey. That’s why so many college students look for ways to make temporary focal points without having to paint or spend a ton of money on artwork. With a hanging tapestry, you can make your mark and transform your dorm space. Here’s how.

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- Adds a Burst of Color
One of the biggest trends in dorm décor this year is vibrant, multi-colored mandalas. Mandala patterns are based off of Indian religious designs meant to center the mind or bring in energy. When in deep, rich colors like red, purple, blue, and green you can make a tapestry like this a huge focal point. And best of all, it doesn’t require potentially damaging painting, nailing, or drilling of holes!

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- Sets a Theme
With the mandala print, you can easily create a whimsical, meditative space that brings in that boho chic flair. But there are other large wall tapestries that can help you set a theme. For example, create your own chevron, houndstooth, or polka dot tapestry for a cool preppy theme. Bring in French refinement with chandelier or damask prints. You can also purchase a flag tapestry to show your pride for your country, state, or city. With so many options, you can find one that is right for your look.


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- Divides the Space
A thick tapestry can be an amazing way to divide space in your small dorm room. For example, use a brightly colored tapestry in place of your ugly or plain closet door. If you bunk your beds, hang the tapestry from the bottom bunk or ceiling to designate which beds belong to who. You can even create a curtain divider between you and your roommate’s space if need be.

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- Creates a Canopy
One of our favorite ways to use a tapestry is to hang from the ceiling so that it creates a shelter over a bunked bed. When hanging, let the fabric dip a bit in the middle for a wave feel. You can even add pins to add dimension to the feel you’re going for. If you’re able, string fairy lights underneath a thinner fabric for a gorgeous and soft lighting feature everyone in your residence hall will be jealous of.


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- Hides the Unwanted
Don’t stop at hiding a closet door! You can use a tapestry to cover large storage bins or even a ugly dorm dresser. Simply use fabric scissors to make holes in the tapestry similar to a shower curtain. Using shower curtain hooks, string on a line and hook to the sides of the item you’re hiding (or install a removable curtain rod). It’s an instant cover up that’s fashionable and functional!

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- Brings in the Outdoors
Another tapestry trend we are loving are the oversized tapestries that depict a nature scene. College students are scooping up tapestries with pictures of forests, oceans, and night skies. They love them because they are a fantastic way to give a dorm room a peaceful, nature-centered space. Add a few dorm-friendly plants, brown and green accent pieces, and a great seating piece and you’ve got a room that will let you enjoy the elements from the comfort of your dorm room.