How to Create a Mosaic Tile Backsplash for your Kitchen

The backsplash above your kitchen counters is a highly visible area and one that has great decorative potential. Using a mosaic or medley of tile lets you create a custom look, combining colors as desired. Choose from ceramic tiles with matte, shiny or distressed finishes. Colorful shimmering glass tiles let you bring a modern attitude to the kitchen and look splendid with stainless steel appliances and sleek cabinetry. Whether you prefer a more subtle refined look or one that is full of color and design, options are virtually unlimited, letting you create one-of-a-kind style for your kitchen backsplash. Then order candle holders online to set on top of your countertops and let the glow of candlelight sparkle and play against beautiful gleaming tile.

Choosing your Tile

Take some time at several tile stores and home improvement stores to get a good idea of what’s available. You can buy a few sample tiles to take home and view in your kitchen. Choose whatever tile appeals to you and feel free to mix and match tiles as long as the thickness of the tiles is consistent; the surface must be level when the tile is grouted. Measure the entire backsplash to determine total square footage. Depending on your design you may need to purchase more of one color than another, so it may be wise to wait until you are sure of your pattern or design before purchasing tile.

All text copyright Shanel. Photo from Flikr - "AvidTileDesign.com Unique backsplash" courtesy of avidtile.

Creating your Design or Pattern

If you’ve never designed with tile before you may find it helpful to plan your pattern on paper first. This will give you an idea of how the finished layout will look and provide an opportunity to experiment with different designs. You may prefer tiles installed on a diagonal or you can create a repeating pattern; you can even use a tile cutter to cut tiles into custom shapes and sizes. When you get close to a finish design on paper, tape it up to the backsplash to see if you’re happy with the design. You can lay out your tiles on a table to tweak and finalize and refer to the paper for a final check. If you’re artistically inclined and want a totally free-form and random design with whole tiles, cut tiles or some combination of the two, you can skip over the design planning stage and choose among your tiles as you install them. Either way, remember to allow for a one-quarter inch grout line between your tiles.

All text copyright Shanel. Photo from Flikr - "Santa Cecilia Granite Counter" courtesy of  avidtile.

Installing the Tile

Ensure that that backsplash area is clean and dry, then begin applying the tile to the wall with tile adhesive, working from the bottom up; leave a one-quarter inch grout line between tiles in all directions. Unless you’re creating a random free-form design, take care to keep your lines level and straight; it’s helpful to draw a guide line with a pencil and square. After all tiles are installed, let the adhesive dry for 24 hours then mix your grout according to package directions and apply the grout with a tile float. Let the grout sit for 15 minutes, then use a damp sponge to carefully wipe excess tile from the face of the tile. Allow the grout to dry and set completely and enjoy your beautiful mosaic tile backsplash.

Now bring in your favorite accessories: Just for starters, you’ll find wall plates and holders, framed art, wall mirrors, baskets, wood art and wall wine racks online from your favorite home decor websites.

 All text copyright Shanel. Photo from Flikr - "Travertine Versaille Pattern Sienna Gold" courtesy of avidtile.