How to Create Tile Patterns for Kitchen Backsplashes

The kitchen backsplash can be a decorative part of the kitchen design.

The kitchen backsplash is the perfect place to add a decorative touch to your kitchen design. Backsplashes can be tiled along the counters, below the upper cabinets, behind the sink or cooktop, or along all of these areas. How you lay out the tile will depend on the height of the backsplash, what size tiles you are using, and whether or not there are decorative tiles included in the field tile. The best way to determine the fit of these elements is with a dry fit layout.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Tile to be installed

1. Measure each section of the backsplash. Start at the counter, and measure up to below the cabinets, as well as each length of counter. Measure the area behind the cooktop, both height and width.

   Most backsplashes are 18 inches in height from the counter to the cabinets, although this measurement may vary. The cooktop backsplash area will be 6 inches wider than your stove, as this is the width of the hood above it.

2. Mark off an area of equal size to your backsplash on a nearby worktable or floor. You will place your tiles in this area to determine the layout and pattern.

3. Lay your first, full tile in the bottom center of each section of the backsplash. This will ensure the installation is even and balanced. If including a decorative border, try placing it one or two full tiles up from the counter. This will ensure it is seen rather than hidden behind countertop appliances.

4. Change the pattern of the tiles from the counter to the cooktop areas. Lay subway tiles in a running bond, or offset pattern along the counters and in a herringbone pattern behind the cooktop. Or, lay square tiles straight along the counters and on the diagonal behind the cooktop. Frame the cooktop with a decorative border or chair rail tiles.

5. Place decorative cut-in tiles in the center of the backsplash to ensure they are seen, and scatter them up and down evenly for a pleasing layout. If using a decorative tile border, use this border to frame the area behind the cooktop, or use complementary tiles to accent the interior of the cooktop area.

6. Double check each measurement and cuts in the dry layout prior to installing the tiles.

References

• This Old House: How to Install a Tile Backsplash