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DIY: 10 Kitchen Backsplash Improvements

The original design for a kitchen backsplash was simply to cover and protect walls near the sink and stove area. Lately, the trend is to integrate these areas into the overall design of the kitchen. There are plenty of ways to perk up a basic backsplash -- from tiling to photographs -- to take your kitchen to the next level. When planning your design, remember that the backsplash is not just around the sink and stove. The backsplash now includes the small area between the counter and upper cabinets.

Things You'll Need

  • Tiles
  • Pattern
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Instructions

    • 1

      Tile the backsplash with interesting shaped tiles to create a focal point in the kitchen. Tile the space under the cabinets with regular square tiles and the area behind the stove with diamonds or triangles to make a statement.

    • 2

      Tile the area with white and black subway tiles. The horizontal lines will bring a different feel to the room instantly.

    • 3

      Tile a brightly colored line of glass tiles in the center of the backsplash. Glass tiles are relatively inexpensive and come in a large variety of colors.

    • 4

      Tile the backsplash with cork tiles that you can use as a bulletin board.

    • 5

      Peel-and-stick vinyl floor tiles are an inexpensive alternative to stone or ceramic tiles. These are easily cut with scissors and are made to last.

    • 6

      Enlarge a favorite photo of you family or of a past vacation site and cut it into squares the size of tile. Apply a spray adhesive to the tile, glue the pieces of the photo, and tile the wall as usual. Then, cover the tiles with a sealant to protect the photo tiles.

    • 7

      Install a metal tile for an interesting and fun design.

    • 8

      Continue the same material that the counter tops are made from up the wall for the backsplash.

    • 9

      Use mosaic tiles to create a mural. Border the mural with a decorative frame or decorative tiles to enhance the look.

    • 10

      Apply standard square tiles at an angle to create a diamond pattern on the back splash to create the illusion of more space.