kitchen backsplash

A backsplash is a protective surface that protects walls from sink or stove splatters, but protective doesn’t have to mean dull and boring. Why not create attractive focal points for your kitchen and bathrooms? Here are some great ideas to get you started.

Faux Finishes for Backsplashes

The popularity of faux painting lies in its versatility and economy. For a fraction of the cost of the real thing, you can create a faux finish backsplash that simulates the material of your choice, whatever that may be. Stone, wood, ceramic tiles and even metal finishes are among the possibilities.

Existing features in your kitchen or bathroom might inspire your choice. Paint will allow you to extend tiling, without having to go out and hunt for matching tiles. If you have granite counter tops, you can create a matching backsplash in faux granite. If you just want to add color and pattern, a painted motif can add a bit of pizzazz to a plain surface. You could create a faux wooden backsplash to match a floor or other wooden features in the room.

Stenciled Backsplashes

Stencils are great aids in faux painting projects because they are easy to use and quick to complete. Stenciled tiles are a popular option. Even the geometric pattern created by simple, unadorned tiling can be attractive. Fancy patterned tiling is another option, or you can simulate decorated tiles.

There are literally hundreds of designs for you to choose from. Faux mosaics are another possibility, and will complement some décor styles. If you don’t want tiling, then you could simply mark off the backsplash area and use stencils to apply an appropriate decorative motif.

Faux Stone Finishes

Stone finishes make a really good-looking backsplash. Granite and marble both require a bit of expertise but you’ll be delighted with the effect. You will need to master the sponging technique to achieve this finish, but it is well worth the effort. Slate is another stone finish that can look really good in a kitchen.

You may want a plain expanse of faux stone or you can create a tiled effect by adding lines that simulate grouting. Masking tape is the faux painter’s best friend in this task.

More Tips for Your Faux Backsplash

° Mark off your backsplash area carefully. It may seem logical to follow the lines of the sink or counter beneath but, especially in older houses, floors may not be level. Step back and see if it’s lopsided before you start painting.

° Unsurprisingly, backsplash areas get splashed on and in kitchens, they can get grimy. Seal well and use quality paints that will take a bit of a scrubbing if necessary (but avoid harsh detergents).

In home decorating, the key to a successful look is often the detailing and the co-ordination of features and fittings. With faux painting techniques you can create a backsplash that will endow your kitchen or bathroom with extra visual interest.

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Find more tile painting tips for your backsplash and around your home. Then claim your free “Insider’s Guide to Faux Painting” and avoid all the common mistakes, get success tips, find the right products for the job and more. Sign up at: www.fauxfinishhowto.com