Tile backsplash presents the perfect opportunity for an impactful focal point in utilitarian spaces like bathrooms and kitchens. Unfortunately, hiring someone to install it can be pricey AF. Not to fret, today I am sharing 15 easy and affordable DIY backsplash ideas to consider for your next remodel…
When designing hardworking spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms and mudrooms, let’s face it- there aren’t many opportunities to introduce pattern. I mean…it’s not like you can just toss a few throw pillows on your toilet and call it a day.
If you really want your bathroom or kitchen to reflect your unique style and taste, you have to carpe diem the sh*t our of your limited design moments.
And while lighting, flooring, rugs and paint selection all present the possibility for a captivating statement, given backsplash is closer to eye level than your floors, ceilings or countertops, it can often be the first element you notice when you walk into a space.
Unfortunately, the cost of tile and the labor needed to install it can add up very quickly (especially if you are like me- a gal with champagne taste, but only a natty-light budget to spare).
Nonetheless, where there is a will there is a freakin’ way, my friend.
If you are willing to put in a little sweat equity and think outside the box, you can acheive the designer look for a fraction of the cost.
As evidence, below I have rounded up 15 DIY backsplash ideas perfect for your budget-conscious remodel…
1. Vinyl Wallpaper that looks like tile-
When it came time to makeover my dated 1980’s half bathroom, I didn’t have a whole lotta space to work with. In fact, this was one of the tiniest powder rooms I had ever stepped foot in.
Due to the limited square footage, I was essentially forced to make use of what I did have- vertical space. Lacking the budget for real backsplash tile, I utilized deceptive means in the form of vinyl peel and stick wallpaper that had the visual pattern of Moroccan tiles (minus the actual grout lines).
Installing the wallpaper from floor to ceiling not only made a bold impact, but emphasized the height of the room- making the small space appear larger than it truly was. Even better? From far away, you would never guess that my DIY backsplash isn’t actual tile. That’s what I call a win-win!
2. Peel and Stick Subway Tile-
Wanting to elevate the appearance of my laundry room on a very limited budget, I decided to give peel and stick tile backsplash a try. While working with this new technology does require a little patience, it is still way more beginner- friendly than having to work with a wet saw and messy thin-set mortar.
In fact, all this DIY project required was the actual vinyl tile sheets, a pencil and a utility knife.
If you do decide to go with white peel and stick backsplash, I highly recommend carefully reading product reviews as I did experience a little discoloration on individual tiles over time. At any rate, you can read my honest review of this particular peel and stick subway tile here.
3. Painted Shiplap Backsplash-
In an effort to minimize the cost of professional tile work during the remodel of my former primary bathroom, my husband and I decided to go with not only a cheaper material (than say ceramic tile or natural stone), but a material that proved much quicker and easier to install as well-primed shiplap.
In lieu of costly ceramic tiles, a new backsplash of wood detail was installed behind our bathroom sink and on the pony wall between our bath and shower.
When time and budget are scarce, wood is an easy way to provide your space with some visual interest. After all, a brad nailer and wood planks are much more simple to work with than a tile cutter, wet saw, mortar and grout float.
4. DIY Faux Marble Backsplash-
When you have to pace your kitchen renovation due to budget restrictions, sometimes you just need a temporary solution that doesn’t cost and arm and a leg. After all, it is advisable to install kitchen backsplashes only AFTER the final counter top material has been installed (I learned this lesson the hard way).
Brilliantly making use of MDF, marble contact paper and adhesive, Little House on the Corner created a gorgeous backsplash area behind her stove. I love how the natural stone effect was wrapped over the open shelving as well. Classy AF!
5. Art Work Backsplash-
If you want your backsplash to double as an art feature, you are going to want to replicate this clever DIY splashback backsplash by Pillar Box Blue.
While there are plenty of wallpaper options on the market nowadays suitable for use as a kitchen backsplash (like the vinyl wallpaper I used in my bathroom), if you happen to fall in love with a print that isn’t designed for such utilitarian purposes, you can simply create a glass enclosure for it so that it’s durable enough to be installed behind a kitchen sink or stove. I am simply obsessed with this unique kitchen backsplash idea!
6. Beadboard Backsplash-
This stunning kitchen by Julie Blanner is a great example of just how much charm a beadboard backsplash can inject into a space (especially if you love cottage or coastal design).
While traditional tile backsplash installation can certainly present as daunting to a DIY newbie, beadboard is one of the easiest ways to take your space to the next level. Not only is installation relatively straightforward, think of all the money you will save forgoing professional labor costs!
7. Stenciled Tile Backsplash-
While installing peel and stick tile DIY-style is a great way to save on labor, depending on the type of peel and stick backsplash you choose, all new tile (even when it’s a cheaper material like vinyl) can still get expensive. This is especially true when you have a lot of square footage to cover!
Thinking outside of the box, Lost and Found shares a great tutorial for how to stencil a backsplash to look like real, Moroccan tile. If budget is your main concern, you can’t beat this clever back splash hack.
8. Removeable Wallpaper Backsplash-
If you want to bring a drab, dated kitchen to life, but don’t have the budget for a professional tile install, take a note from Delineate Your Dwelling and install removeable wallpaper yourself .
Not only is this a great hack if you are in need of a renter friendly solution (given the wallpaper is removable), this particular graphic print is just the perfect pop of boldness needed to bring modern character to basic white kitchen cabinets and appliances- a match made in heaven.
9. DIY Painted Travertine-
If Tuscan-inspired kitchens are not your jam, you can change the brown undertones of your travertine tiles by simply painting over the existing backsplash like Charleston Crafted proved possible here.
The fresh coat of paint works so much better with the color of her cabinets and backsplash now! Even better, this hack was a whole hell of a lot cheaper than having to buy entirely new tile. Work with what ya got!
10. Rustic Wood Planks-
While I lust for kitchen spaces with Zellige tile and Marble slab backsplashes, here in my own kitchen, before I can install the back splash of my dreams, I will first have to save up for new countertops. And so…a cheap, temporary solution it had to be with these cheap pine planks.
If you like the pattern of shiplap but love the look of rustic warmth, don’t be afraid to leave your wood backsplash bare.
11. Stone Peel and Stick Tile Backsplash-
If you love the look of natural stone, but don’t have the financial resources to hire out a professional installer, stone peel and stick tiles are a great way to acheive a similar look for a fraction of the price.
In less than an hour, Amber Oliver was able to add texture and interest in this DIY kitchen makeover by incorporating budget-friendly backsplash to the mix. I love how the cabinet paint and the undertones in the stone compliment each other. You would never guess this backsplash was peel and stick.
12. Painted White Tile-
Don’t feel like fussing with messy, labor-intensive demo? Paint directly over your ugly, old backsplash tiles like Sustain My Craft Habit.
Not only is this a great option if you want to leave your old tile in its place, you really can’t go wrong with a white tile backsplash. This time-saving hack just goes to show that paint is truly a DIYer’s best friend!
13. Glass Peel and Stick Subway Tiles-
If you love the look of glass tile, but don’t feel like committing to that sort of an investment at the moment, look how convincingly real these “glass” peel and stick tiles look!
Installed by Craving Some Creativity, one benefit of going with individual peel and stick tiles is that you can create various sorts of patterns. Having only used sheet tiles myself, I can see where this style would also be easier to install. There’s nothing like shiny new tile to freshen up a tired kitchen!
14. DIY Painted Backsplash-
If you are on an insanely tight budget or just don’t trust the durability of a self-adhering product for a steamy bathroom, you can always paint your own tile backsplash using any color your little heart desires.
For under $40, Charleston Crafted painted the walls of her kitchen to replicate that of a real tile backsplash. You can’t get much more budget-friendly then that!
15. DIY Install of Real Subway Tiles-
If you are a stickler about tactile details such as touch and sheen, you may not be satisfied with tile alternatives.
Obsessed with the look of classic subway tiles? Simple Nature Decor shares a beginner-friendly, step-by-step tutorial for installing them DIY style. Sure….real tile installation will definitely be more time-consuming than a peel and stick variety, but with a little patience and willingness to learn, I know you can handle it!
Well there you have it, my friends- fifteen creative ways to DIY your own kitchen or bathroom backsplash.
With so may options now available on the market, It truly is an incredible time to be a DIY home improvement fanatic.
Thank you so very much for spending some time with me this week! It would mean the world to me if you could share this post with a friend or on social media…
Now get out there and design some good vibes along with a fabulous life!
Welcome!
My journey in interior design and home improvement began with transforming my first fixer-upper home, all while managing a budget and raising two young boys. My work, a reflection of my passion for creating beautiful, uplifting spaces, has been recognized by top publications like Better Homes and Gardens Magazine, HGTV, and more. I invite you to explore my site and witness the transformation of my home and the vibes we've designed.Read more...
