Svenskt Tenn’s wallpapers are manufactured in Sweden from non-woven material comprising synthetic fibres and paper pulp. It’s a combination that makes the material durable and easy to use. The material in the wallpapers is certified in accordance with the OEKO-Tex 100 standard. The synthetic fibres are derived from recycled material including plastic bottles, while the pulp comes from FSC-certified forests. The wallpapers’ colours and varnishes are water-soluble. They are completely free of PVC, heavy metals and other environmentally hazardous substances. Water is the only solvent used at the factory. Any production waste can be recycled as energy when incinerated and residue dyes are reused. The energy used during production is carbon offset.

Production

All of Josef Frank’s wallpapers are printed using the distemper printing technique. The method endows the wallpaper pattern with a unique structure and vibrancy. The pattern builds a slight embossed effect in the material so that it is possible to literally feel the solid craftsmanship.

The distemper printing technique dates back to the early 1800s and nowadays is a way for Svenskt Tenn to come as close as possible to Josef Frank’s original concept. The technique makes every single roll of wallpaper unique. The wallpaper’s pattern and details can in fact vary slightly due to factors such humidity and temperature during the production process and the characteristics of the paper involved.

Five people work at the factory: Håkan and Ann, who are masters of screen printing and glue printing; Thomas, who is a colour expert; and Frida and Anna, who work with the administration and related matters. Together, they are developing their business with passion and a love for patterns.

“It can be likened to a potato print, where the pattern is built up using rollers and colours are added layer upon layer. Printing wet-on-wet gives a vivid and almost hand-painted effect.

It's equally fascinating each time the machine rolls, with wheels spinning and colours dripping. The paints are mixed and filtered before being poured into the paint vessel. The rollers are inspected and placed in the machine in the correct position. Ann sets both patterns and prints entirely manually. Afterwards, we check the pattern fitting and effect before finally rolling up the wallpaper.” - Anna Andén, CEO of Ulricehamns Tapetfabrik.