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August 25, 2020 by Bre

How to Paint a Kitchen Tile Backsplash and Update Your Kitchen for Less!

At one point or another, most of us will have spaces in our homes that are in perfectly great condition but not exactly our style.  My kitchen is one of those spaces!  The cabinets, countertops, and backsplash are all in good shape, but the look isn’t what I’m after.  I’m going to overhaul it without a renovation, and I accomplished the first part of the makeover by painting my kitchen tile backsplash.

Did you know you can paint a kitchen tile backsplash? It's true, and it's actually really easy! This post tells you everything you need to paint your backsplash the right way. This blogger painted her glass mosaic tile backsplash, but the method works on any type of tile backsplash.

To some, it might sound crazy to paint a kitchen backsplash!  Tile can be tricky to paint (hello, adhesion issues!), and the kitchen is an especially messy area, which makes cleanable surfaces a must.  However, painting a tile backsplash is such an inexpensive and relatively mess-free way to update a kitchen that it makes a lot of sense. (And I am NOT one to shy away from painting tricky surfaces.  Check out my painted countertop here and my painted marble fireplace hearth here!)

I will show you exactly how to paint a backsplash for a finish that lasts.  My kitchen backsplash is a mosaic of glass and stone tiles, but this method will work on any type of tile.

Supplies Needed to Paint a Kitchen Tile Backsplash

This post contains affiliate links.  To read my full disclosure policy, please click here.

  • Krud Kutter cleaning spray
  • Paper towels
  • TSP
  • Mixing bucket and rag
  • Rubber gloves
  • Sandpaper (I used 220 grit)
  • Painters tape 
  • Multi-surface adhesion primer (I used less than a quart)
  • Latex enamel paint (I used less than a quart)
  • 2″ angled brush
  • 3″ roller with 1/4″ nap roller cover (I used mohair)
  • Screwdriver (to remove outlet covers)

How to Paint a Tile Backsplash

You guys know that kitchens are prime spots for messes.  Because of that, I fully advocate for a two-step cleaning process when painting your tile backsplash!  Your paint job is only as good as your prep work, so prep right!

Start by scrubbing the backsplash with Krud Kutter.  Krud Kutter is a non-toxic cleaner that is great at removing grease. 

When painting a tile kitchen backsplash, it's important to clean thoroughly and remove all the grease.

Once the entire backsplash is clean and dry, gently sand the tiles to rough them up a bit.  I used 220-grit sandpaper on my little hand sander, but you can use plain sandpaper if you don’t have an electric sander.  (PS not sure why my hands are soaking wet in this photo. :-)).

Before painting a kitchen tile backsplash, make sure to sand it.

I painted glass and stone tiles, and obviously glass is slippery and benefits from the sanding process more than the stone tiles.  However, even if you’re painting rough tiles, make sure to sand.  It really helps the primer stick better!

Then it’s time for MORE cleaning!  For this very important part of the preparation, mix up a batch of TSP according to the package directions, and wash the tile backsplash again.

Before painting a kitchen tile backsplash, make sure to clean it with TSP. TSP helps remove any grease or debris left on the tile.

It’s a good idea to protect your countertop during this cleaning so that you don’t accidentally damage it.

Once the backsplash is dry, tape off any areas you don’t want paint to get on.  I highly recommend Frog Tape over blue painters tape as I think it is much better at preventing paint seepage.

Before painting a tile backsplash, use painters tape to tape off areas you do not want to paint.

Remove your outlet faceplates and then you’re ready to begin painting your backsplash!

Start with a multi-surface adhesion primer like the one I used.  I know this primer works because I used it as the primer on my painted marble fireplace hearth, too.  

I used a brush to apply the primer so that I could be sure to get it in all of the grout lines.  You will be so happy if you’re not painting a mosaic backsplash like me, as you will have fewer grout lines to contend with!

To properly paint a kitchen backsplash, make sure to use a good adhesion primer or else the paint may not stick to the tile.

The primer will look thin in some areas and will make you think you’ve destroyed your kitchen.  But do not fear: it will be okay once you start painting!

This glass mosaic tile backsplash was painted to update the look of the kitchen. Here the primer has been applied.

The multi-surface adhesion primer I used is great because it has a fast dry time to topcoat.  After just one hour of drying it is ready for paint!

The paint I used for my painted tile backsplash is the leftover paint from my mirrored built-in makeover.  Although it is labeled as cabinet and trim paint, I used it here because it’s an enamel paint, which means it dries to a hard, durable finish.  I used a semi-gloss finish (color is Manchester Gray), and I think you could even do a gloss finish if you want more shine.

To paint a kitchen tile backsplash, use a paint brush and a small paint roller.

I rolled it on and then went back in with my brush to grout areas that the roller missed.

I applied two coats of paint to the backsplash, let it dry overnight, and then put the outlet covers back on.

Did you know you can paint a kitchen tile backsplash? It's true, and it's actually really easy! This post tells you everything you need to paint your backsplash the right way. This blogger painted her glass mosaic tile backsplash, but the method works on any type of tile backsplash.

What a difference!

This kitchen's glass mosaic tile backsplash was painted to update the look of the kitchen. Next, the cabinets will be painted.

It feels calmer to me now.  The tile isn’t competing with the granite (which also has a lot of “movement” as the designer folks say).  

Did you know you can paint a kitchen tile backsplash? It's true, and it's actually really easy! This post tells you everything you need to paint your backsplash the right way. This blogger painted her glass mosaic tile backsplash, but the method works on any type of tile backsplash.

And when I paint the cabinets, it’s going to all come together and give me all the heart eyes and happiness!  (UPDATE:  I have completed the second part of my kitchen makeover, and am sharing my Kitchen Soffit Makeover / How to Disguise a Kitchen Soffit in this post!  Also, I have finished painting the cabinets, and you can see the totally painted kitchen in this post!)

Did you know you can paint a kitchen tile backsplash? It's true, and it's actually really easy! This post tells you everything you need to paint your backsplash the right way. This blogger painted her glass mosaic tile backsplash, but the method works on any type of tile backsplash.

How to Clean a Painted Tile Kitchen Backsplash

Because I know somebody is going to ask me, I’m going to tell you how to clean a painted tile kitchen backsplash, too!  And I know because I’ve already done it!  (Now that my tile is painted a light color, it shows the food crud much more than it used to.)

 Did you know you can paint a kitchen tile backsplash? It's true, and it's actually really easy! This post tells you everything you need to paint your backsplash the right way. This blogger painted her glass mosaic tile backsplash, but the method works on any type of tile backsplash.

For messes that I notice immediately, I wipe them with a soft cloth.

For food that has hardened on somewhat, or grease, I clean with dish soap and a soft rag.

It’s that easy!

Did you know you can paint a kitchen tile backsplash? It's true, and it's actually really easy! This post tells you everything you need to paint your backsplash the right way. This blogger painted her glass mosaic tile backsplash, but the method works on any type of tile backsplash.

Well, I hope that gives you enough information to paint your own tile backsplash, if you’ve been thinking of it!  Let me know what you think of my makeover or if you have any questions in the comments section below.  I’m happy to help!

-Bre

SEE THE OTHER POSTS IN MY KITCHEN MAKEOVER SERIES

  • Kitchen Soffit Makeover / How to Disguise a Kitchen Soffit
  • How to Convert a Kitchen Desk to Pull-Out Trash
  • DIY Painted Oak Cabinets
  • The Easiest DIY Under Cabinet Lighting
  • Complete List of Cabinet Painting Supplies

 

 
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Comments

  1. kas says

    August 28, 2020 at 12:39 pm

    Love it! Thanks for the inspiration and encouragement! I’ve been thinking about doing this to my own backsplash that sadly was redone only last summer! I picked the wrong color & it drives me nuts, but I don’t want to pay to change it again (plus my husband would keel over!), and I still adore the shape and style of the tile I chose. So painting it seems like an easy, affordable option!

    Reply
    • Bre says

      September 17, 2020 at 9:18 am

      Hello! Oh man, I’m so sorry you’re disappointed with your backsplash. That is such a bummer!!! I hope this does the trick for you. This truly is so easy and affordable, and I am a firm believer that you shouldn’t live with something you don’t like if you can fix it up for not too much money! Good luck with your project!!

  2. Jennifer says

    October 24, 2020 at 10:17 am

    After a few months, how is it holding up?

    Reply
    • Bre says

      October 25, 2020 at 5:41 pm

      Hi, Jennifer – I am glad to report it still looks perfect! I’ve cleaned it several times now and I’ve even used painters tape on it (I’m in the process of painting the cabinets), and nothing has chipped or anything. Good cleaning, adhesion primer, and enamel paint are KEY!

    • Danielle says

      October 29, 2020 at 10:11 pm

      This is perfect we are kitchen twins 😊 and my backsplash needs a change, you picked a great color!

    • Bre says

      October 30, 2020 at 11:07 am

      I love that! There are so many of us with matching kitchens out there – ha!! Thanks for stopping by!

  3. S.Z says

    October 31, 2020 at 10:04 pm

    I love the idea and the colour. Looking to change mine to the same colour. I am just concerned about the messiest part at the stove area. I usually have to use harsh materials to clean it. Do you think it will still work with the paint to clean it or it would be better to add a stove backsplash board at that area only?

    Thanks

    Reply
    • Bre says

      November 2, 2020 at 12:13 pm

      Hello! Honestly, I would avoid using harsh cleaners. I would be very worried that it would ruin the paint. You’re probably better off adding a different backsplash board in that part. Good luck!

  4. Kim says

    November 4, 2020 at 9:18 am

    So happy to find this! I have this exact tile and granite counter! Another kitchen twin! I can’t take the busyness! Would you share what adhesive primer you used please?
    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Bre says

      November 4, 2020 at 7:26 pm

      Hi, Kim! This is so crazy how many of us have this same kitchen!! :-). If it helps, I have links to the exact primer I used in the supply list above in this post (as well as in the body of the post somewhere). The product is called Behr Multi-Surface Stain Blocking Primer and Sealer. Another option would be INSL-X Stix primer, which is what I’m actually using to prime my kitchen cabinets! Hope that helps.

  5. Amanda says

    December 20, 2020 at 9:37 pm

    Hello, Can you tel me which brand you used to paint the backsplash and colour too, please? Love the colour!

    Reply
    • Bre says

      December 30, 2020 at 2:24 pm

      Hello! Thank you! I used Behr paint in Manchester Gray (which is actually more of a beige color). I have a link to it in the supply section of that post if it helps!

  6. Kate says

    February 4, 2021 at 9:21 pm

    Hello,
    I have the same backsplash, counter AND the undermount sink . With 3 kids my counters are perpetually wet at the base of the faucet, as are the base of the backsplash and grout/silicone line between them. I am concerned about how paint will hold up to having water there so often. Have you had any experience with this?
    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Bre says

      February 9, 2021 at 9:16 am

      This is a BRILLIANT question, Kate! To avoid having any issues, I suggest running a bead of clear silicone caulk between the painted tile backsplash and the countertop. This will protect the paint! I did this in my powder room where I painted my countertop, and it’s working perfectly! You won’t see the caulk since it’s clear, and this will keep it from peeling at all.

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