Painting a faux brick backsplash can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. With just a little bit of effort, you can create the illusion of real brickwork on your walls for a fraction of the cost. Here is a complete guide on how to paint a faux brick backsplash in your kitchen.
Introduction
A faux brick backsplash is a great way to add visual interest and texture to your kitchen walls. Unlike real brick, a painted brick backsplash can be easily changed and updated when you want to redecorate. Faux brick is also much more affordable than installing genuine brick. With some chalk paint and a few simple techniques, you can achieve the sophisticated look of a brick backsplash that appears convincing and real.
How to Paint Faux Brick Backsplash
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Properly preparing the surface is crucial for achieving the best results. Fill any holes or imperfections in the wall with spackle and sand smooth. Clean the walls thoroughly and apply painter’s tape around the edges and to protect any adjacent surfaces.
Prime the walls with a high-quality primer, such as Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Water-Base Primer, to ensure the paint adheres properly. Allow the primer coat to dry fully before proceeding.
Step 2: Create a Brick Pattern
To replicate an authentic brick pattern, measure and mark guidelines in pencil on the wall to represent mortar lines. A standard brick is 2 1/4 inches high by 8 inches long, with mortar joints 1/2 inch thick. Mark grids in this approximate size ratio.
Use a level and chalk line to snap straight horizontal and vertical lines on the wall, which will serve as your “mortar.” You can freehand the outlines too, but the chalk lines create uniformity.
Step 3: Paint the “Brick” Sections
Using flat latex paint in a brick color, brush on the first coat within the outlined “brick” sections. Avoid getting paint on the “mortar” lines. Let the paint dry completely. Apply a second coat for full, even coverage.
Multiple thin coats of paint hide better than one thick coat. Add painter’s tape on the edges of the “bricks” for really sharp lines between the brick and “mortar.”
Step 4: Paint the “Mortar”
Once the brick paint is fully dry, remove any painter’s tape. Apply mortar color paint in all the gaps and outlines representing the grout lines. You can use an actual grout color or mix up a custom color that contrasts well with the brick.
Use a small angled brush to neatly “mortar” the lines and corners. Let it dry fully before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Add Washes and Details
Now you can enhance the realistic brick appearance with washes and detailing. Mix a dark brick/gray color wash and brush it over the bricks and mortar. This adds depth and shadows. Immediately wipe with a clean rag to keep just a hint of color in the crevices.
Accent the corners and random bricks with shading lines and dots made with pencil or thin paintbrush. Apply variations in tone across the brick faces as well.
Seal with a matte varnish once completely dry. Enjoy your newly faux brick backsplash!
Tips for Painting a Realistic Faux Brick Backsplash
- Use brick and mortar colors that complement your existing kitchen decor.
- Look at photos of real brick walls for inspiration on shading and textures.
- Dry brush lighter brick colors on raised surfaces and darker ones in crevices.
- Cut a thin sponge into a brick shape to dab on paint and add texture.
- Use painters tape for clean mortar lines and brush marks for an aged look.
- Apply a matte varnish to protect the finish and enhance the realistic effect.
- Take your time, do thin coats of paint, and work in small sections for best results.
Supplies Needed
To paint a faux brick backsplash, you will need:
- Painter’s tape
- Pencil and ruler
- Level and chalk line (optional)
- Drywall primer
- Latex paint in brick colors
- Small and angled paintbrushes
- Paint tray
- Rag
- Matte varnish
- Spackle (for wall repairs if needed)
Benefits of a Painted Brick Backsplash
Some key benefits of choosing a faux painted brick backsplash include:
- Cost savings – Far less expensive than genuine brick installation
- Lightweight – Won’t require reinforcing wall studs
- Customizable – Create any brick pattern, color or finish
- Easy install – Just prep, prime and paint on your wall
- Lower commitment – Paint over it later if you want a new look
- Visual interest – Adds lovely texture without the weight
- DIY friendly – No need for professional masonry skills
So if you love the look of brick walls but not the price tag or permanency, a painted faux brick backsplash offers the perfect solution for your kitchen. With a little time and effort, you can create a stunning focal point full of charm and character.
Frequently Asked Questions About Faux Brick Backsplashes
What type of paint should I use?
Latex paints provide the best finish for faux brick. Flat or matte paint is ideal and chalk paint also works well. Always use quality primer underneath.
What color combinations look best?
Try pairing bold brick shades like burgundy or deep orange with crisp white mortar. Or go for more subtle earth tones and cream or gray grout lines. Complementary or contrasting tones both work beautifully.
How do I create an aged, worn look?
After painting, brush on a dark gray or brown wash over the bricks. Then wipe most of it away, leaving the wash just in crevices and corners. Also add shading and texture with a dry brush.
Should I use painter’s tape?
Painter’s tape yields clean, sharp mortar lines but isn’t mandatory. You can freehand paint for a more organic, aged effect. Use whichever technique suits your skill level and desired finish.
How long does the faux painting process take?
Expect the project to take 2-3 days total. It requires careful prep work, multiple coats of paint, drying time between steps, and then final detailing. Go slowly to allow sufficient drying between stages.
Conclusion
Installing a faux brick backsplash with chalk paint is an easy, affordable DIY project that can completely transform the look of your kitchen. With some careful planning, quality paint supplies, and artistic technique, you can achieve amazingly realistic results. Just take it step-by-step to create “bricks” and “mortar” with custom color choices. Add artistic detailing for an authentic finish. In just a weekend, you can gain all the visual appeal of real brick walls for a fraction of the cost or work.