Decorating your kitchen backsplash with beautiful photos, art, or decorative items can add personality and style to the space. However, hanging items on tile can be tricky without the right techniques and hardware. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn the best practices for securely hanging pictures, art, mirrors, shelves, and more on your tile backsplash.

Planning Your Display

Before drilling or attaching anything to your backsplash, it’s important to plan out your display. Here are some tips:

Decide which items you want to hang and where. Group items together in arrangements for visual impact.
Measure the size of your backsplash and the items you want to hang to determine placement and spacing.
Draw out a layout of where you want to place each item on the backsplash. This will help you visualize the finished look.
Check that hanging locations don’t interfere with cabinets, outlets, or appliances.
Consider the weight of each item and choose appropriate mounting hardware (see next section). Heavier items may require additional support.

Proper planning will ensure your display looks polished, intentional, and stays securely mounted on the tile.

Choosing Proper Mounting Hardware

The key to securely affixing anything to a tile backsplash is using the right mechanical fasteners designed for the job. Here are the best options:

Adhesive Tabs

Best for very lightweight items under 2-3 lbs like small decorative plates, cups, or artwork.
Won’t damage tile. Easy to remove.
Look for adhesive tabs formulated for tiles – they’ll adhere better than regular CommandTM strips.
Apply to clean, dry tile following label directions. Press item firmly into place.

Tile Clips

Designed to grip between tile grout lines to hold items up to 10 lbs on backsplash.
Purchase tile clip sets meant for walls – they have vertical grips, not horizontal.
Embed claws into grout lines, then clip item into place.

Adhesive Hooks

Self-adhesive hooks that stick directly to tile surface.
Best for lightweight items up to 5 lbs like kitchen towels, small frames, or utensils.
Apply to smooth, clean tile. Press firmly for 30 sec. Allow to cure fully before use per label.

Screws and Anchors

Use tapcon screws and anchors for heavier items up to 25 lbs like shelves, large mirrors, or art.
Pre-drill holes into tile using carbide drill bit. Insert anchors, then screw item into anchors.

Always check maximum weight capacity for any mounting hardware and use the appropriate size and type for each item you’re hanging to keep your display secure.

How to Hang Pictures and Frames

Framed photos, art prints, and decorative plates are classic choices forabove a backsplash. Here’s how to hang them properly:

Gather Supplies

Picture or frame to be hung
Hardware – adhesive tabs, tile clips, or hook as needed
Tape measure and pencil
Level
Drill with appropriate bit (if using anchors)

Add Hanging Hardware

Measure and mark centred location for hanging hardware on frame back or picture wire.
For adhesive tabs, stick two aligned tabs on mark.
For tile clips, secure clips on back spaced 2-3 inches apart.
For anchors, pre-drill holes and insert anchors into frame backing or wire.

Mount on Wall

Hold item in desired spot, use level to ensure it’s straight. Mark location on tile.
If using adhesive mounting, clean tile and press hanger firmly in place.
For tile clips or hooks, set claws or hook into grout lines at marks.
If using anchors, carefully drill guide holes on marks, then insert screws into anchors to mount.
Check that frame or picture hangs flush and level on the tiles. Adjust as needed.

Follow the same process for hanging framed mirrors above a backsplash for a stylish accent. Stick with lightweight adhesive tabs or clips for security.

Hanging Kitchen Towels or Utensils

Keep decorative towels or utensils within easy reach by mounting them on your tile backsplash. Here’s how:

For Towels

Buy adhesive towel bar designed for tile. Measure bar location, clean tile.
Remove adhesive backing and press bar firmly onto tile for 30 secs. Allow to cure 24 hours.
Slide towels or oven mitts onto bar. Fold over loose ends for a tidy, organized look.

For Utensils

Buy tile utensil hooks with strong adhesive backing. Clean tile surface.
Peel off adhesive and press firmly onto tile. Allow to cure fully – 24-48 hours.
Slide utensils through the hook openings, grouping like items together.

Check weight capacities before loading up multiple heavy utensils to prevent the adhesive from detaching from the tile. Stick to lighter items for security.

Mounting Shelves on Tile Backsplash

Shelves add pretty and practical storage space above your backsplash. Follow these steps to securely install them:

Gather Supplies

Shelf unit or floating shelves
Tape measure and pencil
Power drill
Carbide drill bit (matches anchor diameter)
Screws and wall anchors rated for tile

Determine Shelf Location

Hold shelf in desired position on backsplash. Use a level to ensure it’s straight.
Mark the location of each corner bracket, top and bottom, with a pencil.

Drill Holes

Using carbide drill bit, carefully drill a hole at each marked bracket location. Drill to depth of anchor plug.
Insert wall anchor into each hole, tapping flush with hammer if needed.

Mount Shelf

Line up shelf bracket holes with anchors. Insert screws through brackets into anchors.
Use screwdriver to tighten screws until snug and shelf feels secure. Don’t overtighten.
Load shelf evenly starting with lighter items. Ensure it remains level.

Adhere to the shelf’s maximum weight rating and anchor appropriate for tile to prevent pulling tile off the wall. Stagger larger items toward shelf brackets for stability.

Hanging a Large Mirror on Tile

An oversized mirror can create an elegant focal point and illusion of space over a backsplash. To hang it securely:

Gather Supplies

Tape measure and pencil
Power drill with carbide drill bit
Screws and hollow wall anchors rated for tile
Screwdriver or drill
Level

Determine Location

With a helper, hold mirror in desired spot on backsplash. Ensure it’s level.
Outline the mirror width with pencil so you know placement.
Mark screw locations on tile backsplash, near edges and top/bottom of mirror.

Install Anchors

Pre-drill holes at all marks using carbide bit. Hole depth should equal anchor depth.
Gently tap anchors into holes until flush with tile surface.

Mount Mirror

Align mirror holes with anchors, insert screws into place through mirror back.
Tighten screws into anchors with screwdriver or drill until snug.
Check level and adjust anchor screws as needed until mirror is secure.

Avoid leaning heavy mirrors directly against tile. Always anchor top and bottom securely to distribute weight and prevent cracking.

Hanging Art Canvas on Tile Backsplash

Canvas art adds colourful personality to your kitchen backdrop. Here’s how to safely hang pieces on your tile:

Supplies Needed

Art canvas with wire back hangers
Small metal hooks with adhesive backing
Tape measure and level

Prepare Canvas

Measure down from top wire hanger and mark hook placement near both sides.
Clean tile where hooks will be stuck. Remove adhesive backing and firmly press on marks.
Allow adhesive to fully cure for 48-72 hours before hanging.

Mount Canvas

When adhesive has cured, lift canvas and gently set wire atop mounted hooks.
Check that canvas hangs straight and adjust hooks as needed until level.

The adhesive hooks only hold lightweight canvas art securely. For large or heavy pieces, use screw-in tile anchors instead.

Helpful Tips and Warnings

Follow these additional pointers for safely hanging any item on a tile backsplash:

Only drill into grout lines, not directly into tiles, to avoid cracking or shattering.
Wipe surface with rubbing alcohol before applying adhesive hooks for better hold.
When drilling holes, place tape on tile surface so the drill doesn’t slip.
Allow full recommended cure time before using any adhesive hooks or tabs.
Regularly check mounts for loosening and re-press or re-tighten as needed over time.
Do not overload shelves or hooks beyond recommended weight limits.
Stagger the location of holes drilled into tile to prevent weakening the surface.
Use only high-quality adhesives and hardware designed to stick to tile surfaces.

With the right techniques and materials, you can securely mount a variety of decorations, storage, and displays on your tile backsplash. Follow the guidelines in this article to hang items properly, avoid damage to tiles, and create an eye-catching focal feature in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hanging Items on Tile Backsplashes

Can I use regular Command strips to hang things on tile?

No, regular Command strips are formulated for smoother surfaces like walls and mirrors. For the textured grout lines in tile, you’ll need special adhesive products made specifically to anchor on ceramic tile. Look for words like “tile” and “backsplash” on the label.

What about using magnets to hang things on a tile backsplash?

While this works for some items, magnets usually don’t offer a strong enough bond on tile. They can end up slipping and falling. Stick to mechanical fasteners like adhesive hooks or tile clips for a more secure hold, especially for heavier items.

Will drilling holes in my tile crack or damage it?

It’s possible if you use the wrong drill bit or aren’t careful. Always pre-drill gently with a carbide drill bit made for ceramic tile. Avoid the glazed surfaces and drill into grout lines whenever possible. Take it slow to prevent cracking. Use tape on the tile as a guide.

How do I get a screw-in anchor to stay in a tile wall?

Since tiles are rigid and dense, getting the anchors to grip can be tricky. Make sure you’re using hollow plastic anchors specifically made for tile and ceramic. Tap them gently into the pre-drilled holes with a hammer until they’re flush. Screw mounting screws in slowly to give the anchor time to expand.

Can I hang things on my tile backsplash without drilling?

Yes, using adhesive hooks, clips, and tabs avoids drilling and won’t damage the tile. Products like 3MTM CommandTM strips work well, just be sure to follow cure times and weight limits. Check labels for tile-specific adhesive formulas for the best hold.

Conclusion

Decorating your kitchen backsplash with functional or ornamental items can make the space more interesting while adding extra storage possibilities. By following the techniques in this guide for choosing the right hardware, drilling properly, using quality adhesives, distributing weight, and more, you can hang a variety of items beautifully and securely. Always tailor the mounting method to the weight of each piece. Stick to adhesive hooks for lightweight items and anchors for heavier ones. With proper care, your pictures, art, shelves, and more will add charm to your backsplash without compromising the integrity of the tile itself.

How to Hang Pictures on Tile Backsplash

Planning Your Display

Before drilling or attaching anything to your backsplash, it’s important to plan out your display. Here are some tips:

Decide which items you want to hang and where. Group items together in arrangements for visual impact.
Measure the size of your backsplash and the items you want to hang to determine placement and spacing.
Draw out a layout of where you want to place each item on the backsplash. This will help you visualize the finished look.
Check that hanging locations don’t interfere with cabinets, outlets, or appliances.
Consider the weight of each item and choose appropriate mounting hardware (see next section). Heavier items may require additional support.

Proper planning will ensure your display looks polished, intentional, and stays securely mounted on the tile.

Choosing Proper Mounting Hardware

The key to securely affixing anything to a tile backsplash is using the right mechanical fasteners designed for the job. Here are the best options:

Adhesive Tabs

Best for very lightweight items under 2-3 lbs like small decorative plates, cups, or artwork.
Won’t damage tile. Easy to remove.
Look for adhesive tabs formulated for tiles – they’ll adhere better than regular CommandTM strips.
Apply to clean, dry tile following label directions. Press item firmly into place.

Tile Clips

Designed to grip between tile grout lines to hold items up to 10 lbs on backsplash.
Purchase tile clip sets meant for walls – they have vertical grips, not horizontal.
Embed claws into grout lines, then clip item into place.

Adhesive Hooks

Self-adhesive hooks that stick directly to tile surface.
Best for lightweight items up to 5 lbs like kitchen towels, small frames, or utensils.
Apply to smooth, clean tile. Press firmly for 30 sec. Allow to cure fully before use per label.

Screws and Anchors

Use tapcon screws and anchors for heavier items up to 25 lbs like shelves, large mirrors, or art.
Pre-drill holes into tile using carbide drill bit. Insert anchors, then screw item into anchors.

Always check maximum weight capacity for any mounting hardware and use the appropriate size and type for each item you’re hanging to keep your display secure.

How to Hang Pictures and Frames

Framed photos, art prints, and decorative plates are classic choices forabove a backsplash. Here’s how to hang them properly:

Gather Supplies

Picture or frame to be hung
Hardware – adhesive tabs, tile clips, or hook as needed
Tape measure and pencil
Level
Drill with appropriate bit (if using anchors)

Add Hanging Hardware

Measure and mark centred location for hanging hardware on frame back or picture wire.
For adhesive tabs, stick two aligned tabs on mark.
For tile clips, secure clips on back spaced 2-3 inches apart.
For anchors, pre-drill holes and insert anchors into frame backing or wire.

Mount on Wall

Hold item in desired spot, use level to ensure it’s straight. Mark location on tile.
If using adhesive mounting, clean tile and press hanger firmly in place.
For tile clips or hooks, set claws or hook into grout lines at marks.
If using anchors, carefully drill guide holes on marks, then insert screws into anchors to mount.
Check that frame or picture hangs flush and level on the tiles. Adjust as needed.

Follow the same process for hanging framed mirrors above a backsplash for a stylish accent. Stick with lightweight adhesive tabs or clips for security.

Hanging Kitchen Towels or Utensils

Keep decorative towels or utensils within easy reach by mounting them on your tile backsplash. Here’s how:

For Towels

Buy adhesive towel bar designed for tile. Measure bar location, clean tile.
Remove adhesive backing and press bar firmly onto tile for 30 secs. Allow to cure 24 hours.
Slide towels or oven mitts onto bar. Fold over loose ends for a tidy, organized look.

For Utensils

Buy tile utensil hooks with strong adhesive backing. Clean tile surface.
Peel off adhesive and press firmly onto tile. Allow to cure fully – 24-48 hours.
Slide utensils through the hook openings, grouping like items together.

Check weight capacities before loading up multiple heavy utensils to prevent the adhesive from detaching from the tile. Stick to lighter items for security.

Mounting Shelves on Tile Backsplash

Shelves add pretty and practical storage space above your backsplash. Follow these steps to securely install them:

Gather Supplies

Shelf unit or floating shelves
Tape measure and pencil
Power drill
Carbide drill bit (matches anchor diameter)
Screws and wall anchors rated for tile

Determine Shelf Location

Hold shelf in desired position on backsplash. Use a level to ensure it’s straight.
Mark the location of each corner bracket, top and bottom, with a pencil.

Drill Holes

Using carbide drill bit, carefully drill a hole at each marked bracket location. Drill to depth of anchor plug.
Insert wall anchor into each hole, tapping flush with hammer if needed.

Mount Shelf

Line up shelf bracket holes with anchors. Insert screws through brackets into anchors.
Use screwdriver to tighten screws until snug and shelf feels secure. Don’t overtighten.
Load shelf evenly starting with lighter items. Ensure it remains level.

Adhere to the shelf’s maximum weight rating and anchor appropriate for tile to prevent pulling tile off the wall. Stagger larger items toward shelf brackets for stability.

Hanging a Large Mirror on Tile

An oversized mirror can create an elegant focal point and illusion of space over a backsplash