How to Create a Mosaic Kitchen Backsplash

Broken tiles can become a one-of-a-kind backsplash.

Creating a mosaic backsplash is an easy way to liven up your kitchen. You can use glass or ceramic tile, or less-expensive materials, such as chipped china plates from garage sales or your own collection. Choose materials in colors that complement your kitchen decor. Laying out the mosaic pattern will take some time, but once it's installed, your one-of-a-kind backsplash will have a long life.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Tape measure
• Large pieces of cardboard
• Goggles
• Tile snips
• Sponge
• 80-grit sanding sponge
• Tile adhesive, or thin-set mortar
• Trowel with 1/8-inch notches
• Carpenter's level
• Grout
• Bucket
• Power drill with concrete-mixing attachment
• Grout float
• Large sponge

Instructions

1. Remove the faceplates on any electrical outlets and switches in your backsplash area, using a screwdriver. Measure the width, length and height of the backsplash. Transfer the measurements to a large piece of cardboard to create a template. Cut out the locations of the outlets and switches, then cut out the template. Fit it into the backsplash area, adjusting the cardboard until it fits perfectly.

2. Put on your goggles. Break the ceramic tiles or plates with your tile snips. Create pieces that are evenly sized for easier layout.

3. Lay the cardboard template on the floor. Arrange your tile pieces on the cardboard, spacing them at least 1/4 inch apart. This will be your guide as you glue the pieces to your backsplash.

4. Wipe down the backsplash area with a sponge to get rid of dust and dirt. Let the area dry. Sand the wall lightly with an 80-grit sanding sponge to provide better adhesion. Mark the center of the backsplash as your starting point.

5. Spread your tile adhesive or thin-set mortar on the backsplash with the 1/8-inch notched trowel. Apply the adhesive to a small area at a time. Press your tile pieces into the adhesive, following the pattern you laid out on the template. Space the tiles 1/4 inch apart. Lay your carpenter's level across the tiles to make sure they are level.

6. Spread more adhesive in the next section of your backsplash and lay the tiles as before. Continue until you have tiled all the backsplash area. Wait 24 hours for the tile adhesive to dry.

7. Mix the grout in a bucket according to the package directions. Blend the grout with your power drill and concrete-mixing attachment until it is smooth.

8. Spread the grout over the tiled area with the grout float. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Wipe the grout off the tile surfaces with a damp sponge. Let the grout between the tiles set according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Tips & Warnings

• Caulk along the edges of your tiled backsplash.

References

• This Old House: How to Install a Glass Mosaic Tile Backsplash