One of the best ideas for decorating on a budget - especially in an outdated kitchen or bathroom- is to paint that unsightly tile. Now, I am not talking about painting the whole tile (although you could), my suggestion is to paint designs on your tile to update the look. Whether floral, geometric, or figural, the design ideas are endless. And it's easier than you think!
Here's how to paint your tile:
- Scuff. Scuff the surface of the tile a bit with some sandpaper for a rougher surface for the paint.
- Clean Tile. It's important to start with clean tile. Wash the tile with a 50/50 solution of household ammonia and water to remove any grease or soap. You can find tile cleaner at your local hardware store as well. It's a good idea to use both. The cleaner, the better!
- Rinse. Now rinse the tile with water - just plain water. Let the tile dry thoroughly.
- Prime. Next, prime the tile with a high-adhesion primer such as Zinsser's Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer-Sealer or Graham Aqua Borne Ceramic™ products. This provides a base for the paint to stick to. Without it, the paint will easily scratch, peel, or rub off. Your local hardware store can point out the best primer for your job.
- Wet. I wouldn't recommend using painted tile in areas that are frequently wet, like showers. While many people recommend it, I don't think they hold up well.
- Design. Paint your design (geometric is easiest) in oil-based paint. I think latex paints are too prone to scratching and chipping.
- Stencil. Your stencil can be cut out of a brown paper bag. Place the cutout stencils over the tile and dab the design with paint. Remove carefully. These stencils can be reused as long as they hold together.
- Boo-boos. If you make a "boo-boo", clean up with paint thinner and rags.
- Cure. While the tile will be dry to the touch in 24 hours, it won't be completely dry or "cured" for several weeks.
- No scouring. Don't scour the tile with any harsh cleaner, especially before it's completely cured.
Now was that so hard? It's such a easy and budget friendly way to update your tile. And you can make the design as creative as you want!
