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How to paint a tiled splashback

A kitchen with splashback tiles painted in a zig-zag pattern

Overview

An easy and affordable way to give your kitchen a fresh, new look without the cost of removing your tile splashback is to paint it. You can paint it the colour of your choice or create a new design. We’ll show you the tools you need and give you some handy tips on how to paint your tiled splashback.

Steps

1Clean the tiles

It's important that the tiles you're going to paint are free from grease and grime. Paint won't adhere to dirty surfaces. Follow the instructions on the pack and mix sugar soap with water. Put on protective gloves and wash the wall thoroughly. Wait for it to dry. Alternatively, you can use the tile cleaner in the Rust-Oleum kit to clean the tiles.
A person cleaning splashback tiles in a kitchen

2Start marking out your design

Work out the design for your tile splashback. We're doing chevron stripes – an inverted V-shape – but you can choose any design you like. With chevron stripes it's important to get the measurements accurate, so you have nice straight lines. Use the pencil, builders square and tape measure to mark the lines on your tiles.
A person marking lines on splashback tiles in a kitchen

3Mark your lines with painters tape

Painters tape is a good way to make sure your paint lines are straight. Once you've marked out the design on the tiles, apply painters tape along the lines. While measuring and marking takes a lot of time, it makes the job easier and will give you a professional look. Take into account the thickness of your painters tape because it will affect your pattern.

A person applying masking tape to splashback tiles in a zig-zag pattern

4Add a top V to the tile design

So that the spacing between the chevron stripes is even, add another V above the top one. Use the tape measure and square to mark the triangle. Mark the lines with the painters tape. Repeat this process across the splashback.
A person applying masking tape to splashback tiles in a zig-zag pattern

5Trim the painters tape

After you've marked out the lines on the splashback and marked them with painters tape, it's time to trim them. Use the utility knife and square to cut the edges of the tape cleanly. This will make painting much easier.
A person using a utility knife and square to trim masking tape on tiles

6Paint the splashback

Put on your safety equipment. Follow the instructions on the paint to prepare it and mix it thoroughly. Also, check the paint drying and curing times. Use a paint brush to apply the paint in the smaller areas and the roller to paint in the larger areas.
A person using a mini roller to paint tiles masked with masking tape

7Remove the tape

Before the paint has completely dried, carefully remove all of the painters tape. If you wait too long, the paint can also peel off with the tape. Don't rush peeling off the tape, carefully take it off one piece at a time.
A person removing masking tape from splashback tiles

8Enjoy your new splashback

Once the paint is dry all that's left to do is stand back and admire your handiwork!

Inspiration from the Bunnings Workshop community

Cosmetic kitchen reno

Workshop member Rufaro brightened his beige and brown kitchen by painting his tiled splashback and cupboards a brilliant white.

View project
A kitchen with a white tiled splashback

Suggested products

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.