How to Lay Out Your Control Line on a Diagonal Backsplash

The tiled backsplash is one area in which you can add a great deal of color and interest to your kitchen’s decor. There are countless interesting ways to tile your backsplash; one way that adds flair without being too difficult even for a beginner is to set the tile diagonally. In order to successfully tile your backsplash in a diagonal pattern, you will first need to draw out a control line along which you will place the first tiles. An accurate control line will ensure that your tiles are set at a true 45-degree angle.

Measuring tape
Ruler or yardstick
Speed square

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all outlet covers, shelving and any other detachable items from the wall that is going to be covered with tile before you begin working.
- 2
  Use a measuring tape to measure each of the four sides of the area that is going to be tiled. Mark the center point at each side, then use a pencil and a ruler or yardstick to draw a straight line between each pair of opposing center points. When you are finished, there will be a horizontal line and a vertical line that intersect at the center of the wall, creating a “+” shape.
- 3
  Place a speed square against the wall with the right-angled point at the intersection of the “+” and each of the shorter sides along one of the straight lines. Draw a pencil line along the long side of the speed square; this line will be at an exact 45-degree angle to the straight lines on the wall. Remove the speed square, then line up your ruler or yardstick with the diagonal line and extend the line across the entire wall. This will be the control line along which you will begin placing the diagonal backsplash tiles.

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