As promised, I will show you the step by step to creating the patterned cement tile, for much less.
On the main floor bathroom that EVERYONE uses we always like to make a big impact without costing a fortune. This bathroom is a great example of how paint can transform a room completely.
Even though we did paint the vanity a charcoal and framed out the mirror with an inexpensive wood from Home Depot, the biggest impact was the patterned floor tile.
We had already bought large rectangle slate tile but thought what a mess it would make. We had perfectly good tile but it just needed a major facelift. Since we had nothing to loose we decided to step outside our comfort zone and paint it. We couldn’t be happier with the results!
If you have a space in your home (a fireplace surround, backsplash, floor) that needs an inexpensive update, perhaps this how-to will give you just the inspiration you need.
To get started, I had to select a pattern. A quick search on Pinterest offered so many gorgeous examples. I looked through photos and tile companies until I found a pattern that I met my two criteria: 1. I could live with the pattern and 2. The pattern could be easily replicated and handpainted.
After narrowing it down to a couple of finalists, I decided on the pattern shown below. I loved the simplicity, the handpainted feel and it seemed like a very simple pattern to paint.
The trickiest part was figuring out the math to make the pattern to fit perfect in a 13inch tile from a cricut that only prints 12inches.
If you do not have a cricut you can easily order the tile of your choice online for really cheap. On Pinterest I came across half a dozen that are under $5.
With my pattern selected, I started in on the bathroom makeover.
STEP ONE | Clean the tile to remove any dirt, soot, etc.
just used dish soap, an old scrub brush, and a magic eraser.
STEP TWO | Paint tile with primer
For the base coat, I used Stix’s Primer made by Benjamin Moore.
With just that first coat of primer on there, I knew this was going to be a good choice. I taped up my paper samples just to make sure I loved the pattern, the scale, and placement.
STEP THREE | Paint the base coat (white)
STEP FOUR | tape stencil
Taping pattern was the most labor-intensive step. It felt like forever (but splitting it between a few evenings helped) and I just put on some music and made myself some coffee. I used the example below for my approach. I will say when you look close the pattern had some imperfections but honestly the busier the pattern the more unlikely you will even notice. But if you do go back after it is dry with paint and touch it up with Q-tip.
STEP FIVE | Paint the pattern
Using a small sponge brush dapping it ALOT on paint tray to make sure it is LIGHTLY coated. This part doesn’t have to be perfect – in fact, one of the things I love the most about the inspiration tile is how imperfect and handpainted it looks.
For paint, I used Valspar Porch and Patio Paint in a Satin finish. My main reason was that I was hoping to get that slightly aged, vintage look but with durabililty.
You can’t really see the texture unless you are up close and it honestly doesn’t bother me at all. It may cause the paint to wear more, so I’ll keep you posted if it all starts peeling off anytime soon.
STEP SIX | This is optional and I DID NOT DO THIS. You can put a top coat of water based poly over the top with flat or satin finish. Since I used porch paint that is made for outdoors I did not do this step yet but I see it starting to chip I will.
And it’s done!
This pattern gives the otherwise builder basic room a nice dose of energy and the classic black and white pattern still feels versatile.
FADED FOX FARMHOUSE 