I've seen some white beadboard with a small trim running around looking good as a backsplash. Maybe it would work where you want it. Sounds easier and more fun than re-wallpapering to me.

__________________
1985 500SL Euro w/ AMG bits 130k
1984 300SD Turbodiesel 192k
1980 240D Stick China 188k
2001 CLK55 AMG 101k
2007 S600 Biturbo 149k Overheated Project, IT'S ALIVE!!!

It was some of that white beadboard I covered up with FRP in another unit. It was hardboard with a white finish and the finish wore off.
It won't work in the unit in question because I've decided the wallpaper, which goes up to about 12' in the corner is itself too old. Even if I put new material at the backsplash level I need to something about all the wallpaper.
I'm not crazy about wallpapering but it looks like it's in my future.

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

I have painted over wallpaper before. Can't you just do that if it's intact and sound? You didn't mention it peeling or anything. Just Kilz it first, then paint.

__________________
08 W251 R350
97 W210 E320
91 W124 300E
86 W126 560SEL
85 W126 380SE Silver
85 W126 380SE Cranberry
79 W123 250
78 W123 280E
75 W114 280

That had crossed my mind. There are a few places where it has peeled but maybe I can use some spackle or something on those areas and then paint it. It may be worth a shot before wallpapering.

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

Preliminary testing seems to show that painting the existing wallpaper will work. I trimmed the peeling and broken pieces with a razor blade, primed and painted. Design does not appear to be showing thru. Waiting for it to dry. It it works it will be a big time saver.

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

well, you should be proud, regardless of the outcome. this is the most discussed kitchen in the universe.

good luck.

__________________
"The law, in its majestic equality, forbids the rich as well as the poor to sleep under bridges, to beg in the streets, and to steal bread."