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How to paint a terrazzo wall

painted terrazzo wall

Paint a terrazzo-look wall

Pick up a paintbrush and create your own terrazzo-effect feature wall. From the Latin word ‘terra’, meaning ‘earth’, the art of terrazzo has been around for centuries. It was used by Italian artisans in Venice in the 1500s to create durable, beautiful floors – such as patios and terraces – out of recycled chips of marble, granite and quartz cast in a binder such as clay or cement, then sealed to give it a sheen. This created a sustainable and stunning trend that endures to this day. In recent years, terrazzo has been used for walls and benchtops. To get a terrazzo-inspired look without the price tag, you need nothing more than a blank wall and paint sample pots!

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 

Steps

  1. 1

    Paint the wall

    Working on a drop sheet to protect the floor, use 25mm and 18mm paintbrushes and five different colours to paint small irregular shapes on the wall – and returns if it’s a blade wall – to create a terrazzo-like pattern. Leave to dry.

    A gloved hand paints the terrazzo shapes on the wall
  2. 2

    Apply a second coat and seal

    Apply another coat to the painted shapes and allow to dry. Go back over the painted shapes with 12mm paintbrushes to tidy any edges, if needed. Wearing eye protection, gloves and a face mask, spray the wall with a coat of clear gloss to seal the painted design.

    A gloved hand uses a small paintbrush to tidy the terrazzo shape edges
  3. 3

    Keep in mind…

    • Keep all paint and chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
    • Any plumbing works must be carried out by a licensed tradie.
  4. 4

    Want more paint transformations?

    Check out our painting projects, ideas and inspiration.

      

    Photo Credit: James Moffatt, Samantha Pointon

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.