How to Use Playmats as Decorative Pieces in Your Gaming Room

Quick Answer

Yes, you can decorate with playmats. Use poster frames, adhesive strips, or clipboards to hang them on walls, and rotate them seasonally to keep your gaming room fresh. Choose mats with durable artwork and consider UV protection to prevent fading.

Playmats are more than just a surface for your cards. With their bold artwork and sturdy material, they make surprisingly good decor for a gaming room. Whether you want to show off a favorite character or add color to a wall, a playmat can do double duty.

The key is to display them without causing creases or damage. With a few simple supplies and a little planning, you can rotate your playmats like art prints and keep them in great condition for actual play.

Choosing the Right Playmat for Display

Not every playmat suits wall display equally. Look for mats with high-contrast, detailed artwork that reads well from a distance. For example, the Attack on Titan: Battle for Humanity Playmat: Wall Titan features a detailed illustration of the Wall Titan's face peering through the wall, which creates a dramatic focal point. Similarly, the My Hero Academia: Dark Hero Arc Playmat brings Deku's journey to life with dynamic illustrations that pop on a wall.

Consider the mat's size and your available wall space. Standard playmats are roughly 24 by 14 inches, but always measure yours. Avoid mats with heavy curling or creases, as they may not lie flat in a frame. If you plan to use the mat for play later, choose a display method that doesn't leave permanent marks.

• Pick artwork that matches your room's color scheme or theme.
• Check the mat's condition for creases or bends before displaying.

Preparing Your Playmat for Display

Clean the playmat gently before hanging. Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water. Avoid harsh cleaners that can damage the printed surface. Let the mat dry completely flat. If it has curled edges, place heavy books on it for a few hours to flatten.

If you're framing the mat, remove it from any packaging and let it air out. Some mats have a slight rubber smell when new; a day or two in a well-ventilated room helps. Never use tape directly on the mat's surface, as it can leave residue or pull up ink.

• Always test a small corner with any cleaning solution first.

Displaying Your Playmat on the Wall

The safest way to display a playmat is inside a poster frame. Choose a frame with a clear plastic front and a backing board. Place the mat inside without adhesive. If the mat is slightly smaller than the frame, use a mat board or acid-free paper to fill the gap.

For a more casual look, use binder clips or bulldog clips to hang the mat from a wire or rod. This allows you to swap mats easily without damaging them. Another option is to use adhesive strips designed for posters, but apply them to the back of the mat only. Avoid putting anything sticky on the front.

If you want to show off multiple mats, create a gallery wall with matching frames. This turns your collection into a cohesive display. Remember to keep mats away from direct sunlight, which can fade the ink over time.

• Use UV-protective glass if you have a sunny room.

Using Playmats as Tabletop Accents

You don't have to hang every playmat. Use one as a desk mat or under a keyboard for a subtle gaming vibe. Place a clear desk pad over it to protect it from spills and wear. This way, you can enjoy the art daily without committing to wall space.

Rotate mats seasonally or when you get a new favorite. For example, you might display the My Hero Academia: Dark Hero Arc Playmat during a new set release, then switch to a classic. Keeping a storage tube or flat box for unused mats prevents creases.

• Rotate mats to keep your room feeling fresh and reduce wear on any single mat.

Caring for Displayed Playmats

Dust your displayed playmats regularly with a soft brush or microfiber cloth. If you notice slight curling, re-flatten them with books. Check for any fading or damage every few months, especially if they're near a window.

When you decide to take a mat down for play, inspect it for any marks from the display method. If you used clips, there might be small indentations that usually disappear after a few hours of flat storage. With proper care, your playmats can remain in excellent condition for years.

• Store spare playmats flat or rolled in a tube to avoid permanent creases.

Step-by-Step: Display Your Playmat Like Art

1. Choose a mat with bold, detailed art: Pick a playmat whose artwork you love and that fits your room's vibe. Look for high-contrast designs that look good from a distance. A mat like the Wall Titan or Dark Hero Arc makes an instant statement.
2. Clean and flatten the mat: Wipe with a slightly damp cloth, let dry flat, and press out any curls with heavy books. Check that the mat lies completely flat before you frame or hang it.
3. Choose a display method: Use a poster frame, clip system, or adhesive strips on the back. Avoid tape on the front. Frames offer the most protection; clips make swapping easy.
4. Hang at eye level and away from sunlight: Position the mat where you can enjoy it without direct UV exposure. Use UV glass if needed. Proper placement prevents fading and makes the art pop.
5. Rotate and maintain: Swap mats periodically and dust them regularly. Store unused mats flat or rolled. Rotation keeps your room fresh and extends mat life.

Playmats That Work Well as Decor

• Attack on Titan: Battle for Humanity Playmat: Wall Titan: The Wall Titan playmat from UniVersus features unique, custom artwork that captures the haunting presence of this Titan. The playmat showcases a detailed illustration of the Wall Titan's face peering through the wall, emphasizing its imposing nature. The dramatic, high-contrast image makes it a striking wall piece that draws the eye, even from across the room.
• My Hero Academia: Dark Hero Arc Playmat: These playmats feature stunning artwork that brings Deku’s journey to life. Each mat showcases detailed and dynamic illustrations from the Dark Hero Arc, immersing you in the intense world of My Hero Academia with every duel. The dynamic action scenes add energy to a gaming room and pair well with other My Hero Academia collectibles for a themed display.

Playmats are a versatile addition to any gaming room. With the right display method and a little care, you can showcase your favorite artwork and still use the mats for play. Start with one or two favorites and build your display as your collection grows.