Laying Out a Subway Glass Tile Backsplash

Measure the height and width of the backsplash with a measuring tape. Write down your figures.

Decide how many tiles the job will take and how many cuts are necessary. Every other row will start and end with a half tile. If you have a backsplash that is 24 inches tall, there will be eight total rows, and you will need eight tiles cut in half.

Cut the tiles with a wet saw. Alternatively, you can also use special glass tile cutting knives that are ideal for smaller jobs.

Apply mortar to the wall with a notched trowel. Smooth a 1/4-inch layer of mortar to the backsplash area. Flip the trowel over to the notched side and score the mortar.

Lay out the first row of glass tile. Start at the bottom and work upward. Place a grout spacer between each tile for an even appearance. Press the tile firmly into the mortar.

Continue adding tile. Start your next row with the half tile, and lay out the rest of the row. End with a half tile. Repeat until the entire backsplash is complete. Allow the mortar to set -- typically around six to eight hours.

Grout between the tiles. Remove the grout spacers as you work. Lay down a bead of grout between the tiles. Smooth it out with the bottom of a spoon. Wipe off any excess immediately with a damp cloth.