What You Need
Step 1: Clean the tile.
Thetile should be completely cleanand free of debris before you begin painting.
Start by vacuuming or sweeping the floor to remove any loose dirt or dust.
Credit: Annie Schlecther
Then thoroughly scrub the floor with a grease-cutting cleaner such as Krud Kutter.
Go over the floors again with a damp cloth to catch any remaining debris or residue.
Step 2: Prime the tile.
Credit: Annie Schlecther
Prime your tile with a bonding primer, such as KILZ Adhesion White Bonding Interior/Exterior Primer.
Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If needed, apply a second coat of primer and let dry.
Step 3: Paint your base color.
Note that flat-sheen paint works best to replicate the look of unglazed encaustic or cement tile.
Let dry and apply a second coat if needed.
Ensure the color is completely solid with no lighter spots showing through.
Wait at least 24 hours to allow the paint to fully dry and set before stenciling.
Step 4: Stencil your pattern.
Place the stencil in the center of one tile and secure the edges with painters tape.
Load a foam roller or stencil brush with a small amount of your second paint color.
To prevent paint from bleeding through the stencil, dab off excess paint before each stroke.
If desired, use a third color to highlight specific areas of the pattern.
Leave the stencil in place and let the paint dry.
Step 5: Continue stenciling across the floor.
For any areas where the stencil can’t fit, use a small paintbrush to continue the pattern free-hand.
Step 6: Touch up and seal.
Use a small paintbrush to touch up any spots where the paint dripped or bled through the stencil.
Let dry for at least two hours before applying a second coat.
Allow to dry overnight and remove all painters tape.
