DIY Painted Backsplash

3 Materials
$40
4 Hours
Easy

Wanting to update your kitchen without breaking the bank? This DIY project only requires a few supplies and can be done in an afternoon! Paint the outdated backsplash you currently have and save some major cash!

Follow me on IG for more DIY projects: @renovationqueenlife

BEFORE

The cabinets are 20 years old, but in great shape. With an updated backsplash and new countertops, this kitchen now looks brand new!

STEP ONE: PREP

Lightly sand down the surface of the backsplash with sandpaper. I used 100 grit with my electric sander.


Then apply a thin coat of Zinsser Peel Stop Triple Thick Primer.

I was surprised at how thin and milky the primer seemed, but it did a great job!

Don't be scared by the appearance of the primer after it dries!

STEP TWO & THREE: PAINT

Paint two coats of whatever color you have decided to use. For this project, I used Sherwin Williams Web Gray.


Glidden Premium is my favorite type of paint, so I always have the paint counter at Home Depot mix my Sherwin Williams color in Glidden paint, but I'm sure you could use any brand that prefer.


For this project, I used eggshell because I wanted the tile to have a matte look without being so flat that every finger print showed.



Painting the existing backsplash saved quite a bit of money, so we were able to splurge on some nice granite countertops.

Oliver approves!


Please Note: You could continue on with a sealant or a glaze, but I did not. The backsplash has been done for approximately six months now and does not have a single scratch! It has held up wonderfully!

Now, this kitchen is ready for at least another 20 years of service!

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Frequently asked questions
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  • Deborah Lynn Deborah Lynn on Jun 03, 2020

    If you have textured tile do you need to sand before primer?

  • Teresa Lee Whaley Teresa Lee Whaley on Jun 03, 2020

    Does this work on old formica?


  • Susan QC Susan QC on Jan 17, 2022

    I see you changed out the drawer pulls, but I'm wondering about the cabinet hardware. Did you paint the original handles and also the hinges? I have the same ones and I am trying to decide what to do about my hinges. Any thoughts or help is appreciated.

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