Faux Subway Tile Backsplash for Only $13!

We are currently updating our kitchen. This isn’t a full blown reno. It’s just a simple update.

For now, though I want to share the latest update that I made in the backsplash.

It’s a little unconventional, but it was such a fun project! I decided to make a faux subway tile backsplash with a sharpie maker.

Before finally deciding on this project, I had also considered peel and stick subway tile and wall paper that looked like subway tile.

But I had reservations about both, and decided to try out this cheap backsplash idea instead because I could always paint over it and would only be out $13.

If you already have these supplies, your’s could be free! Talk about a cheap kitchen backsplash!

Supplies for Faux Subway Tile:

white paint
pencil
ruler
level ($7)
permanent markers ($3)
caulking ($3)

Steps to Make Faux Subway Tile Backsplash:

First, you’ll need to paint your backsplash the desired color. I painted my entire kitchen White Barn from the Colorplace collection at Walmart.

It has a cool undertone. I also removed the 4 inch backsplash from my 90’s kitchen. Then sanded it down and primed before painting.

Next, You’ll need to create horizontal lines in pencil across the backsplash. I chose to use the standard subway tile size of 3×6 inches.

So I drew a line 3 inches above the countertop. My ruler doesn’t start at 0 inches, so I ended up creating a subway tile template and used that to measure the first line.

Use the level to make sure your lines are straight across. Then stand back and make sure it is looking good.

Once the first line is drawn, measure 3 inches from that line and draw your next horizontal line until you reach the top of your backsplash.

Next, draw your horizontal lines. You’ll probably want to stager them for a more natural look.

As you are drawing your lines, be sure to step back from time to time to make sure your “subway tiles” are looking good.

I noticed that one row of my tiles was slightly narrower than the other lines, so I ended up going back over it and adjusting the line. This is a main reason to start with pencil!

Last, it’s time to make the magic happen! Trace over the pencil lines with your permanent marker using the ruler or level to create crisp lines.

Undoubtedly, there will be mistakes made, but those can easily be touched up with paint when you are done. Last, if you need to, add caulking to connect the backsplash to the countertop.