How Do I Decorate the Backsplash on Ceramic Tiles?

Some tools will help you decorate the tile of your backsplash.

Decorating the ceramic tile of a backsplash can give your space a face lift, especially if the tile you've inherited in your home is a color or pattern you dislike. If the style of the backsplash clashes with your tastes, you can use some basic painting techniques to cover the tile and make your own design. The result will be striking and the tile will be virtually unrecognizable from the way it used to look.

Things You'll Need

• Cleaner
• Rags
• Painter's tape
• Primer
• Paintbrush
• Oil-based paint

Instructions

1. Thoroughly clean the tile you will be working with, using a rag and strong cleanser. All dirt, debris, grease and dust needs to be removed before painting.

2. Line the wall adjacent to the tile with painter's tape to protect the wall from the paint. The painter's tape is gentle enough that it won't damage the wall paint.

3. Use a paintbrush to coat the ceramic tile of the backsplash with primer and let it dry.

4. Paint a coat of oil-based paint on the primed tile, in any color you choose. Oil-based paint will stick well to the tile, but you can use acrylic paint if it is all you have available. Let the tile dry.

5. Apply a second coat of paint if necessary and let dry.

6. Remove the painter's tape from the wall and discard.

Tips & Warnings

• Use stencils to decorate the tiles if you want added detail.

• If fumes from the paint become too intense, open a window or door.

References

• Ask the Builder: Painting Ceramic Tile