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Painted Tile Backsplash Ideas

Tile is one of those home improvement projects that may be a bit more difficult for an average DIY’er. For me, I don’t own a tile saw or really know how to do it. So when I wanted to change up the tile in our last house, I needed a budget-friendly option that I could do myself. So I painted my tile backsplash and it worked like a charm!

So if you’re considering painting your tile as well, here are a few painted tile backsplash ideas to help you get some inspiration. This is one of those projects that I have never regretted doing. It instantly changed the look of our kitchen and it cost me about $30. Compared to at least $400 to have someone come in and retile, it was the perfect solution for us at the time.

Painted Tile Backsplash Ideas

Before we get to the inspiration – here are a few tips to make this a successful project.

  • Use quality paint and primer
  • Don’t skimp on the prep work – it makes all the difference. It’s the most boring part, but you want to make sure every bit of grease and grime are off those tiles before you paint.
  • Take your time but make sure you can move quickly if needed. Oil based paint is less forgiving and you can’t make multiple swipes back and forth over it without dragging it or leaving mistakes.
  • Prepare for odors – oil based paint smells and ideally, you need a ventilated area. Open windows or doors to help with fumes. I did ours in the winter and kept the back door open to help with the smell.

From Builder Grade to White for $30

First, here’s what I did to our tile backsplash.

Before and after picture of a painted tile backsplash

Our house was built in 2012. This is when everything was beige/brown. The tile that went in our house was nice, it just wasn’t what I wanted after a few years.

I finally got up the nerve to change it. And I’ll admit, it was scary. That’s a big mistake if it doesn’t go right and not exactly a cheap professional fix.

But I couldn’t have been happier with the results. It instantly brightened up our interior kitchen and it was even better when I painted all the cabinets white.

Get all the details on how to paint kitchen tile backsplash here and check out the one-year update here.


And for more ideas and inspiration, check out these tutorials. The amazing thing about DIY is there is no one-size-fits-all. There are different paints, techniques, and styles to fit everyone’s tastes and budgets.

Hopefully, this gives you the perfect inspiration for starting your tile project. As far as all the budget-friendly DIYs I’ve done over the years, this is one of my favorites.

Sometimes we want a dramatic fix but just can’t afford the whole package yet. These painted tile backsplash ideas will completely change the look of your tile without breaking your budget.


Image with text: painted tile backsplash ideas

Julie Briones

Sunday 9th of January 2022

Thank you so much for sharing my shower tile paint project! I agree... paint is a wonderful option that improves a look, and it totally affordable! Pinned!

create and find

Sunday 9th of January 2022

Of course Julie! And I agree - it's so budget friendly and completely transforms the look of your tile!