How to Create a Beautiful Backsplash for Your Kitchen Counter

A backsplash area is not only practical, because it helps protect a wall area above a counter space, but it's often a focal point of the kitchen. Using a well-crafted design and high-quality materials will yield a beautiful backsplash area that adds to the overall look of the kitchen. This wall area can be artistic, rustic or clean and smooth. But, it's important to review lots of options before making a choice so you'll be pleased with the outcome for years.

Instructions

1

Sketch the kitchen counterspace and cabinets, so you can experiment with designs. Use colored pencils to draw the backsplash in various colors. Draw the space with white tiles, brown tiles or light gray metal tiles as possible options. Get a feel for the color you wish to use before selecting a specific design or materials.

2

Visit an upscale tile store. Look at unique choices in a custom tile store vs. a general home improvement store. Go over options such as tiles that compose an outdoor scene, or painted tiles with herbs or flowers. Review any books on display at the custom tile store to gain a sense of unique tiles or colors. Select your ideal tiles before finding a less-expensive subsitute, if needed, to fit your budget.

3

Go over kitchen design books and magazines to look for unique backsplash designs. Be sure to consider every option, such as stacked stone, slick surfaces made of metal or mirrors, wallpaper or metallic paint applied directly to the drywall.

4

Choose a design that will work with cabinets and appliances already in place. Plan to install black glass tiles with white grout to fit with an all-white kitchen, for example. Make the backsplash the room's focal point in this case. Draw everything in detail with colored pencils to ensure you're pleased with the design you will construct.

5

Add lighting and special touches to the backsplash area. Construct the space of tile, stacked stone or the selected material. Install fluorescent lights under upper cabinets. Add one or two shelves with unique collections of canisters or copper pots, for example. Hang framed prints, all with identical frames, along the backsplash. Use black frames with prints of individual plants or herbs, as one option.