DIY Faux Backsplash

If you want to change the look of your kitchen but don’t have the budget for an elaborate backsplash, using faux techniques may be the answer. A faux backsplash allows you to tailor the colors, textures and “grout” lines to match your kitchen decor. The process can be done in a weekend and will give your kitchen a facelift. Pick paint colors for your “grout” lines and tile.

Things You'll Need

• Painter’s tape
• Plastic sheeting
• Paint key
• Stir stick
• Interior washable paint
• Paint tray
• Roller
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• 1/8-inch painter’s tape
• Drywall compound
• Trowel
• Fabric
• Washable latex paint
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Apply painter’s tape to the bottom sides of your cabinets and the top of your counters. Lay plastic sheeting over your counters and floors.

2. Apply painter’s tape even with the end of your cabinets to delineate where the backsplash needs to end.

3. Open your paint can you choose for the “grout” lines with a paint key. Stir the paint with a stir stick and pour the paint into a paint tray.

4. Paint the backsplash area with the grout color with a roller. Allow the paint to dry and apply a second coat if desired.

5. Use a measuring tape to determine the size of your tiles. Use 1/8-inch painter’s tape to mark off the tiles and to protect the “grout” paint. Make sure the tape extends 1 to 2 inches past the area to allow you to pull the tape off easily.

6. Mix the drywall compound according to the manufacturer’s directions. Use a drywall trowel to apply the compound to the backsplash area. Apply the compound so that it is ¼ to ½ inch in thickness.

7. Press fabric onto the compound lightly to create texture if desired. Remove the painter’s tape while the compound is still wet. Let the compound dry completely.

8. Reapply the 1/8-inch tape over the grout lines to protect the base coat. Paint the tiles with the interior colors of your choice. Use a roller or paintbrush. Cover both the tops and sides of the faux tiles. Let the paint dry completely.

9. Remove all of the painter’s tape from the backsplash.

Tips & Warnings

• If you desire the look of glossy tiles, paint the faux tiles with a clear sealant that is waterproof.