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How to Paint Tile – Easy Fireplace Paint Makeover

by heather 139 Comments

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Discover how to paint tile and an easy fireplace paint makeover!

Can you paint tile? Yes!

I’m sharing the full instructions and the supplies to paint tile.

This painted tile makeover is so quick and easy- just 3 steps and no sanding!

It was so much easier than I thought it was going to be – and I love how it turned out.

 You’ll love this DIY tutorial if you’ve ever wanted to update outdated tile.

Plus it’s an inexpensive DIY project.

How to Paint Tile in 3 Easy Steps! NO SANDING REQUIRED! Before and After DIY Painted Fireplace Makeover. www.settingforfour.com

affiliate links included in post – full disclosure statement available here.

How to Paint Tile – Easy Fireplace Paint Makeover

Giving our living room electric fireplace surround, hearth and mantel a total makeover has been in the plans for a while.

The fireplace is in great shape, we love the size of it.

However the beige tile is boring and blah and not stylish.

To update the fireplace first we painted the honey oak wood mantel white.

This made such a huge difference to lighten and brighten our living room!

Next we painted the boring beige tile fireplace surround and hearth –  with no sanding and in just 3 steps! It’s so easy!

How Our Fireplace Looked With The Beige Tile Surround

This is how the beige tile looked before we painted it.

It doesn’t coordinate with the wall color or with the white mantel.

It’s outdated and blah looking.

How to Paint Tile in 3 Easy Steps! NO SANDING REQUIRED! Before and After DIY Painted Fireplace Makeover! www.settingforfour.com

Supplies To Paint Tile On A Fireplace Surround

  • White tile paint – you can buy it here. I get a lot of questions about the paint I used, so I want to clarify that I didn’t use any other type of paint. This paint is designed to resist blistering and peeling.
  • Painter’s tape – this is the only painter’s tape I use since it prevents paint bleeding!! And it doesn’t remove the paint from the metal fireplace insert.
  • 2 paint brushes –  I used  a 1.5 inch flat paint brush like this and a 1/2 inch flat paint brush.

The Paint Brushes I Used

I usually use household paint brushes like Purdy paint brushes for these types of interior paint projects.

However the flat paint brushes (that are linked above) that I used for this DIY project are the perfect size and shape for applying the tile paint.

They didn’t leave brush marks and gave me more control around the corners!

They also lay the paint onto the tile really well.

So I only had to apply 3 coats to get complete coverage.

No sanding required!

Let me just say it again because I’m so excited about this!!

  • I did NOT SAND the tile at all! This saves lots of time and mess!
  • The specific paint I used is a primer and sealer in one and it’s designed to adhere to tile.
  • Always paint a test patch first on a spare tile – if you have one – to make sure it will apply to the surface of your tile!

Read on for the full instructions on how to paint fireplace tile.

Step By Step Instructions On How To Paint Tile On Your Fireplace Surround

Step 1. Clean Your Tile Really Well! 

  • It’s so important to prep the tile properly to make sure the paint will adhere and won’t peel off!
  • Wash the tile before painting to remove any dirt, dust or grease.
  • I made up a mixture of 2 cups of warm water and 1 drop of this dish soap in a small plastic container and wiped down the tile with a cotton cloth and the soap mixture.
  • I didn’t use any other cleaner.
  • I didn’t use a sponge because I it’s harder to completely rinse out.
  • After cleaning the tile I gave it a final ‘rinse’ and wiped it down with a slightly wet cotton cloth (with just water, no soap) to remove excess cleaner from the surface, and let it air dry.

Step 2. Tape Off The Tile Portion

  • Tape around the entire tile with the painter’s tape.
  • I even taped out the hearth tile by applying the tape right onto the carpet!
  • Run your finger over the edges of the tape thoroughly to seal it.

How to Paint tile in 3 easy steps and how to tape out with Painter's tape, I show you how!

Step 3. Paint The Tile

  • Paint the tile and the grout lines using the paint brushes listed above and the white tile paint!
  • I only used this paint – no other paint!
  • I did not use a paint roller or paint tray.
  • The first coat of paint will look streaky. That’s okay!
  • Our tile took 3 coats to cover. Each coat dries quickly though so I was able to finish in 2 days.
  • Make sure you follow the instructions on the can to let it completely cure in between coats and to fully cure before using the area. This will ensure a durable finish!
  • The paint sheen has a very soft satin look.
  • Not completely matte, just a very soft shine – it’s perfect! It’s in between a matte finish and a semi-gloss.

How to paint tile in 3 easy steps! I show you the BEST tile paint to us to paint your fireplace tile surround. NO SANDING REQUIRED! www.settingforfour.com

What The Painted Fireplace Tile Looks Like With 1 Coat Of Paint

This is how the fireplace tile looks with 1 coat of paint.

It looks streaky and you can see some of the beige tile color.

With another coat or 2 of paint, the beige tile will become completely covered.

How to Paint Tile in 3 Easy Steps! NO SANDING REQUIRED! Before and After DIY Painted Fireplace Makeover! www.settingforfour.com

When you are finished painting and the paint has completely dried remove the painter’s tape.

Look – no paint seeping!

Nice clean edges!

Also, no paint has been removed from the black fireplace insert!

How to paint tile - I show you the BEST Painter's tape to use to get sharp, crisp lines with no bleeding and it won't take the paint off of your fireplace insert!

We love it! No more boring beige!

This tile makeover is fresh and bright.

I love the white against the black fireplace insert.

Our painted fireplace tile fits in so much better with the rest of our living room now!

 As a lover of classic colors and timeless design this paint makeover really makes me happy!

I also really love how my mantel decor absolutely pops now with the entire fireplace painted out in white.

How to paint a tile fireplace surround - it's so easy to give your fireplace a stylish makeover! See how I turned blah beige tile to this chic white look!

Shop the look! Click on the images below and scroll using the arrows to see more about each item!

Before:

How to paint tile on your fireplace in just 3 easy steps! No sanding required and I show you the supplies you need too!

After:

How to paint tile on your fireplace in just 3 easy steps! No sanding required and I show you the supplies you need too!

Shop the look! Click on the images below and scroll using the arrows to see more about each item!

Here are the answers to questions I’ve been asked by readers:

1. Did you seal the tile as a final top coat?

No I didn’t add any other sealer product! This paint is a sealer itself!

2. Can this work with porcelain tile?

I’m not sure, my tile is ceramic.

3. Does this hold up to kids and pets?

I don’t have any pets that walk on the tile hearth and our kids don’t either. The hearth and fireplace itself is not a high traffic area. Be sure to let the paint fully cure in between coats and after the final coat to make sure it’s as durable as possible.

4. Will this scratch, chip or crack?

2 years in I’ve had a few minor scratches the size of a dot on the hearth tile from where I placed my lanterns on the hearth tile….but I just repainted them with the same paint and the scratches are completely eliminated! The tile surround has shown no scratches at all. There have been no paint chips or cracks with my tile.

5. Will this work on wall tile?

It may would work on wall tile too ,but I haven’t tried it.  I wouldn’t do it in a shower though – it won’t hold up to moisture. For a shower/bathroom I would go with an epoxy paint that’s designed for high moisture and high humidity. I’ve heard great things about the Rust-Oleum Tub & Tile Kit to paint shower tile.

6. Will this work on cracked tile or tile missing grout?

I haven’t tried it but you can try to repair the tile with paintable caulk to fill in and smooth cracks and missing grout. Then apply the paint.

7. My tile is high-gloss – will this paint technique work?

For high-gloss tile I would lightly sand the tile to give the paint something to adhere to and be sure to remove all the dust from sanding before starting to paint the tile. Like any paint project it’s all about the preparation of the surface.

8. Can you paint ceramic tile backsplash in a laundry room?

I haven’t tried it in a laundry room. The paint is not intended for any surface subject to immersion or prolonged contact with water.

9. How long does painted ceramic tile last?

I painted my fireplace tile 2 years ago and it has lasted. It still looks beautiful! As I mentioned I have had a few scratches from placing lanterns on the hearth area but I easily fixed them by touching them up with the same paint.

How to Paint Tile in 3 EASY STEPS! 

PLEASE PIN THIS AND SHARE IT WITH YOUR FRIENDS!

How to Paint Tile in 3 Easy Steps! NO SANDING REQUIRED! Before and After DIY Painted Fireplace Makeover! www.settingforfour.com

How to Paint Fireplace Tile for only $20! An Easy DIY project!

Do you have some tile to paint? Do you think you’ll try painting it this way? Let me know how your tile paint project turns out!

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15414 shares
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Filed Under: Decor, DIY, Makeovers, Mantel, Paint, Paint Colors Tagged With: DIY, fireplace, how to, how to paint, Makeover, mantel, Paint, tile, tutorial

heatherHeather is a Designer, True Color Expert® and proud military wife at Setting For Four Interiors. Heather offers online Interior Design and Paint Color Services. See all of our design tips & tricks on the blog and follow us on Instagram for more design and decor inspiration!

Comments

  1. [email protected] says

    April 7, 2015 at 4:20 pm

    This is a great makeover. You are right it really did make a brighter and fresher difference. The space seems more open and airy now. Thank you for the tutorial.

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 8, 2015 at 10:24 am

      I’m glad you like my tute Tracy and thanks for the compliments!! I wish I had done it sooner – we are really enjoying the fresh update!

      Reply
      • Debra says

        February 5, 2016 at 4:23 pm

        Can you then paint a color over the base coat? and, if so, what type of paint would you use? Thank you!

        Reply
        • heather says

          February 9, 2016 at 7:28 am

          I’m not sure Debra – I haven’t tried that! Perhaps what you could do is paint a spare piece of tile you may have lying around with the white base coat then paint your color on top and see how it works. Good luck!

          Reply
      • Lindsay says

        August 19, 2022 at 1:10 pm

        Did you only use the Zinsser paint, or that as a base coat and a different paint on top?

        Reply
        • heather says

          August 20, 2022 at 9:59 am

          I only used the Zinsser paint as described in the tutorial! Hope that helps!

          Reply
    • heather says

      April 11, 2015 at 10:50 am

      Thanks so much Tracy!! You’re exactly right – it makes my whole living room seem bigger and brighter! I love when a small inexpensive change like this makes a huge impact!

      Reply
    • Katy says

      September 20, 2018 at 10:26 am

      Is this paint okay with high heat from a functioning fireplace?

      Reply
      • heather says

        September 20, 2018 at 5:47 pm

        Hi Katy – Check with your fireplace manufacturer!

        Reply
  2. Sandra Coyer says

    April 9, 2015 at 8:23 pm

    Love it! Also love the added clean look of the shiny silver. Thanks for sharing
    Blessings~~~

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 11, 2015 at 10:48 am

      You’re welcome Sandra! Thank you for your sweet thoughtful compliments!! Painting my fireplace has made such a huge difference to my living room!

      Reply
  3. Tiffany says

    April 10, 2015 at 10:14 am

    Hi, Heather ~ I L-O-V-E this project! And, oh, how I adore the two words: “no sanding.” :0) I’m doing this project this summer, and kicking builder-grade beige to the curb! Thanks so much for sharing!

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 11, 2015 at 10:47 am

      Yay – I’m glad you like my post!! You’ll love your fireplace after Tiffany! It makes such a huge difference to the whole room!! I honestly wish I had painted mine earlier! Let me know how your’s turns out 🙂

      Reply
  4. Julie says

    April 17, 2015 at 12:21 pm

    Heather, did you only use the primer/sealer (no actual paint?
    Thanks

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 19, 2015 at 1:56 pm

      Yes Julie – just the primer/sealer! No additional types of paint! The white color of the primer/sealer is gorgeous!

      Reply
      • Kathy Caveny says

        April 1, 2017 at 2:51 pm

        Heather this is a great project and I want to try it on ours. Was it hard to get the primer to match the existing white on your mantel?

        Reply
        • heather says

          April 3, 2017 at 3:10 pm

          Hi Kathy! It matches perfectly to our white mantel! I’m so glad you like my post and painting tip! xo Heather

          Reply
  5. Pamela says

    June 14, 2015 at 5:14 pm

    Did you also paint the grout too? I can’t tell by the pictures if you did or not. We got a slate grey color and want to refresh our fireplace that oddly had the same color as yours.

    Reply
    • heather says

      June 14, 2015 at 9:38 pm

      Yes – I repainted the tile and the grout! It still looks amazing – I’m so glad I did it!! Have fun painting your fireplace Pamela! 🙂

      Reply
  6. Marci says

    June 18, 2015 at 2:29 pm

    I think I am going to copy your fireplace look, love it! also, what colour grey did you use on your walls?

    Reply
    • heather says

      June 24, 2015 at 9:48 am

      Hi Marci! I’m glad you like my fireplace makeover!! My grey wall color is Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray! It’s a gorgeous color!

      Reply
  7. Aimee says

    July 4, 2015 at 1:14 pm

    One word – GORGEOUS!! Love this project! Definitely putting this on my project list!! One quick question – Is the tile paint the same white as your mantel?

    Reply
    • heather says

      July 15, 2015 at 8:20 am

      Hi Aimee – I used different paint but it’s the same color of white! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed my post! Happy Summer!

      Reply
  8. Keri says

    July 30, 2015 at 8:47 pm

    Do you think this method would work on marble?

    Reply
    • heather says

      July 30, 2015 at 9:51 pm

      I really don’t know if it would or not Keri….I’d ask someone at Home Depot if they may know if it would work. Good luck!

      Reply
  9. Brenda says

    September 27, 2015 at 5:19 pm

    Heather, I’d like to paint a tile kitchen backsplash. It is done in a black square shiny tile. There is an accent tile that I really dislike in the center. Will this paint work on a glossy finish tile as well?

    Reply
    • lisa says

      November 12, 2015 at 10:18 am

      Was going to ask the same question…a tearing out of the backsplash isn’t in the budget now, but yikes, I don’t like the backsplash in the home we just purchased! We even have occasional glass tiles to paint over…wonder if it will work!

      Reply
    • Nicole says

      February 9, 2022 at 7:33 am

      Yes it does. I’ve done it in a kitchen and a bath tub/shower surround.

      Reply
  10. Julia says

    October 6, 2015 at 4:18 pm

    It looks fabulous! I recently moved into a new house and need to update two fireplaces! I have my work cut out for me. I love, love your round mirror. Where did you get it?

    Reply
  11. Kaci says

    October 10, 2015 at 8:46 am

    This is great! Do you know if they let you had color to the type of tile paint you used? We have a fireplace that is tiled but we don’t want it all white. We would like a medium grey color. thanks!

    Reply
    • heather says

      October 18, 2015 at 4:58 pm

      I’m not sure if you could tint it or not since I didn’t do that Kaci – but I guess you could buy a can and try to tint it! Might work!

      Reply
  12. Tiffany says

    October 13, 2015 at 12:57 pm

    Hi Heather,
    Thank you so much for sharing this tutorial! I followed it this weekend and painted over some dark green tile. My fireplace looks so much better. It completely changes the feel of the room.
    Thanks Again!
    Tiffany

    Reply
    • heather says

      October 14, 2015 at 9:02 pm

      AWESOME!!!!! Please send me a photo of your tile Tiffany!! ( [email protected] ) I’d love to share it on facebook! I’m so THRILLED that you followed my tutorial and you love the results!! Soooooo excited for you! 🙂

      Reply
  13. Tracy says

    February 2, 2016 at 7:16 pm

    I only wished my Husband had seen this before he used engine block spray paint on our bathroom/bedroom fireplace. So many fumes and overspray (although it was just dried dust by the time it hit anything). He choose this paint because the tiles get warm from the heat of the fireplace. Does the paint you use handle the painted tiles being heated?
    Thanks so much!

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 3, 2016 at 11:06 am

      Yes – this paint works for a fireplace – I haven’t had any problems with it being heated at all Tracy! It still looks like I just painted it yesterday too – no flakes or chips. So sorry to hear about the fumes and over spray you experienced! My tutorial has no fumes and no overspray or mess. Thanks so much for visiting Tracy!

      Reply
  14. Heather says

    February 6, 2016 at 3:40 pm

    Hi Heather – wondering how the paint has held up? We use our wood burning fireplace a lot and wondered if you thoght the paint would peel or scratch if were putting wood down on the painted tile?
    Thanks,
    From another Heather

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 9, 2016 at 7:25 am

      Hi Heather (great name!) The paint has held up perfectly! No chips or scratches. Our fireplace is electric so I don’t put wood on it all the time, but I do put lanterns on it and birch logs for decor and have had no scratching. I’m wondering if you apply a matte sealer/varnish type of application on top for an extra measure of protection if that would help? I’d go to your local home improvement store and ask them what they think just to make sure. The other thing you could do perhaps is to paint a spare piece of tile you might have lying around and sort of test it to see how it holds up after a couple of weeks. Hope that helps!

      Reply
  15. Lena says

    February 24, 2016 at 4:38 pm

    Do you use your fireplace often? I’m wondering if I were to do this would the paint hold up against the heat?

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 28, 2016 at 1:13 pm

      We use it often in the winter and has held up well!

      Reply
  16. Amanda says

    February 25, 2016 at 11:49 am

    How well does this paint your using stand up to the high heat temperature from the fireplace? Would it not melt away or cause a bad odour?

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 28, 2016 at 1:12 pm

      My fireplace is electric and it’s held up well!

      Reply
  17. Jackie says

    February 28, 2016 at 4:43 pm

    Can you post a pic of the brushes you used? Thank you so much.

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 28, 2016 at 4:57 pm

      Hi Jackie – they are artists brushes and you can see pictures of them using the links in the post! I hope that helps! Thank you!

      Reply
  18. Kathy says

    March 13, 2016 at 11:05 am

    Hi Heather. Love the updated look. Can you use this same technique for my beige kitchen backsplash?

    Reply
    • heather says

      March 14, 2016 at 4:22 pm

      Thanks Kathy – glad you like the updated look on my fireplace! I’m not sure how this might stand up with a lot of scrubbing for a kitchen…I’d ask someone at your hardware store perhaps if they think it may work or if maybe you need to add a sealer on top! Good luck!

      Reply
  19. Ashley says

    April 9, 2016 at 11:45 am

    Hi! I love your makeover! Such a a difference! We have a similar mantle! How is it holding up to cleaning…especially the floor section?

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 10, 2016 at 10:03 pm

      Hi Ashley – it’s holding up super well! I just damp wipe the tile to clean it. There were a couple of small scratches on the floor tile, where I put my decorative lanterns, but they came right off with a Mr. Clean magic eraser! I’m soooo glad I painted it – looks so beautiful compared to the blah beige tile that was there!! Hope that helps!

      Reply
      • Ashley says

        April 12, 2016 at 6:35 pm

        That’s great to hear! Thank you!!

        Reply
  20. Cynthi says

    July 9, 2016 at 6:47 pm

    How do you make the paint smooth and not have paint brush marks.

    Reply
    • heather says

      July 10, 2016 at 6:58 pm

      Cynthi – the paint brushes I used – links in post – are the answer to no brush marks! 🙂

      Reply
  21. janet says

    July 17, 2016 at 12:34 am

    I so want to do this. Maybe, I am blind, but did you paiint the tile on the ground as well. It looks beige still? Look great. Thanks for the tuturial!!

    Reply
    • heather says

      July 18, 2016 at 3:24 pm

      Hi Janet – glad you like my post! Yes I painted the tile at the hearth of the fireplace the same way! 🙂

      Reply
    • Janet Pursley says

      July 24, 2016 at 4:49 pm

      Thank you!! Just out of curiosity why do you use two brushes? Did it take a long time since the brushes are so small?

      Reply
      • heather says

        August 7, 2016 at 10:25 am

        Hi Janet – I painted most of the tile with the 1.5 inch brush and the smaller brush was better at getting into some of the tight corners. No it didn’t take a long time to paint – the smaller brushes actually gave me more control so I wouldn’t get paint on the wood mantle. Hope this helps! 🙂

        Reply
  22. Sandy says

    October 19, 2016 at 9:52 am

    We are considering to paint our green ceramic tiles around our fire place, and we burn wood and there is quite a lot of heat when the fire is going. Do you think it would work for our fireplace ? Any suggestions would be great 🙂

    Reply
    • heather says

      October 19, 2016 at 11:24 am

      I’d ask you local hardware, home improvement store about that Sandy! Our fireplace is electric not wood burning.

      Reply
  23. Tamara says

    November 30, 2016 at 8:34 pm

    Thankyou for a very easy solution to transforming tile, I’ve had clients ask me if tile can be painted.

    Reply
  24. Lynn says

    November 30, 2016 at 11:19 pm

    I’m so glad you posted this, I’ve been thinking about wanting to change my tile around my fireplace but I didn’t know you could paint it with the heat coming out right next to it. So glad to know there are no problems. I’m curious did you paint the grout too or leave that alone? Mine is a kinda beige-brown.

    Reply
    • heather says

      December 2, 2016 at 8:55 am

      Yes I painted the grout too Lynn – mine was beige as well!

      Reply
  25. Kelly Anderson says

    January 11, 2017 at 8:46 pm

    We just painted our walls mindful gray today and have the same fireplace! I was thinking he beige doesn’t match and this looks great! Did you have to put any sealant in top? I’m wondering if tiles on floor get marked up when people walk on them? Can you wipe them down when needed ?

    Reply
    • heather says

      January 12, 2017 at 8:01 am

      Hi Kelly – I just used the steps that I posted in my tutorial. We don’t walk on the tiles below our fireplace but I do set baskets and lanterns on them. It wipes easily!

      Reply
  26. Michelle says

    March 1, 2017 at 9:20 am

    Your fireplace looks FAB! I am going to do paint my fireplace this weekend but would like an update if possible. Is this tile paint still holding up? Reviews online are not so good if used as primer but no reviews have been done regarding using as a paint only.

    Reply
    • heather says

      March 1, 2017 at 9:34 am

      Yes – it’s holding up perfect Michelle!!

      Reply
  27. heather says

    March 31, 2017 at 7:58 pm

    Hi Rose – the paint I used only comes in one color – white. But it’s a primer so you should be able to paint on top of it, but I haven’t tried that myself. Good luck and you are so welcome for the idea!! xo Heather

    Reply
  28. Marilyn Grieco says

    April 3, 2017 at 12:50 pm

    Please provide the exact name and brand of paint. At Home Depot I was shown concrete paint. Was told they had “no tile paint”.

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 3, 2017 at 3:08 pm

      Marilyn – the paint I used is in the supply list. Check it out! 🙂 Best Heather

      Reply
      • Lori says

        May 29, 2017 at 8:24 pm

        So sorry to ask this same question, but I have read and re-read your instructions and I do not see the exact primer and paint, exact brand, sheen and color? (satin?) Would you please provide. Amazing job that I would like to try as well. Working with a salmon tile, yuck. 😉 Also, do you mind sharing your black fireplace insert? Thank you!!

        Reply
        • heather says

          June 1, 2017 at 8:22 am

          Hi Lori – the products that I used are linked in the blog post! I don’t know where the insert is from. Have fun painting your fireplace tile!

          Reply
  29. Jill says

    September 26, 2017 at 12:46 pm

    I painted my mantle but I’m nervous to paint the tile surround. Will the heat cause the paint to crack on the tile?

    Reply
    • heather says

      September 30, 2017 at 1:59 pm

      I don’t know Jill. My fireplace is electric and doesn’t heat the tile.

      Reply
  30. Debbie says

    October 12, 2017 at 2:50 pm

    This is what I am trying to do with my tile around the fireplace. I went to Home Depot and asked about this paint as I coudn’t find it myself and the guy said he didn’t have any specific “tile paint”. He sent me home with an interior Satin Enamel that is a Paint and Primer in one. I’m thinking this might be the wrong product to use?

    Reply
    • heather says

      October 13, 2017 at 4:36 pm

      Hi Debbie – I used the paint that I talked about and linked in my post so I don’t know if the paint you bought at Home Depot will work or not.

      Reply
      • Debbie says

        October 23, 2017 at 12:06 pm

        I ended up getting the paint you linked here. I think our fireplace looks much better now. But, here is the issue that I see. I can scratch it off with my fingernail, and we have dogs, so I haven’t let them on it yet, but I can’t keep the fireplace barricaded forever. Have you had any issues with this? Wondering if I should put another type of sealant on it? It does say full adhesion and hardness in 7 days. Did you wait 7 days before putting your decorations on it? Thanks!

        Reply
        • heather says

          October 23, 2017 at 1:23 pm

          Hi Debbie – I waited a few days before putting any decor on it. I haven’t had any issues with it, but I don’t have dogs. Perhaps you could put a clear varathane on top? I’d ask your local hardware store if that might work. I’m not sure if that would work, but perhaps it’s worth a try!

          Reply
  31. Shanna says

    October 25, 2017 at 11:06 am

    If I’m understanding correctly, you only used the primer/sealer and not a top coat? We’re getting ready to paint our fireplace and I love the way your looks!

    Reply
    • heather says

      October 25, 2017 at 2:34 pm

      I used the supplies and the tutorial in my post! Thanks for the compliment – we love it!

      Reply
  32. Gina says

    November 7, 2017 at 5:10 pm

    I’m you newest fan! We have the same fireplace and I thought about having a mason brick it, but I really love this! I can’t wait to get started!

    Reply
    • heather says

      November 9, 2017 at 9:06 am

      Oh thank you Gina for your lovely compliments! So glad you like my blog and this tutorial! Enjoy your fireplace makeover!! xo Heather

      Reply
  33. Kristen says

    November 10, 2017 at 7:44 pm

    Hi there – I am SO excited to have stumbled upon your post. Were your tiles smooth to the touch to begin with? Ours have some slight ridges in them that give them some more “natural look. “I am wondering how it would turn out if I were to follow your steps on stone that isn’t completely smooth. Thanks in advance!

    Reply
    • heather says

      November 15, 2017 at 10:39 am

      Our tiles have a very subtle varied surface to make it look like natural stone as well. We love how it looks and how it turned out. So much better than the blah beige it was before!

      Reply
  34. Ginette says

    November 14, 2017 at 9:36 pm

    Hi there, Our fireplace tile look exactly like your old one, so I am thrilled to see your post!
    Have you used your gas fireplace since? This is my challenge in convincing my husband that this is a great idea!

    Reply
    • heather says

      November 15, 2017 at 10:41 am

      We use our fireplace all the time! I’m so glad you like my post – thank you!

      Reply
  35. Allison Tesnar says

    November 15, 2017 at 1:47 pm

    Very cool! We have a bathroom in our basement that is ‘fine’ but this may help improve the look of the boring beige tile on the floor. Since it says it’s a primer and you can use any topcoat I think I’m going to add a stencil to the top in charcoal to mimick the look of those cool patterned tiles. I’ll have to figure out a topcoat to protect it since it will be walked on. Any suggestions?

    Reply
    • heather says

      November 16, 2017 at 2:48 pm

      I’m not sure – perhaps you could ask your local hardware store what they might suggest? Sounds like you have a great plan with the stencil! 🙂

      Reply
  36. Cheri says

    January 30, 2018 at 2:53 pm

    Have you ever stenciled on a ceramic tile fireplace surround? I am thinking of doing this but not sure if it would work or not. Also, if so, what paint do you use? Thanks!

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 1, 2018 at 7:45 pm

      Hi – no I have never stencilled on a fireplace tile surround. The paint I used is linked in the post! 🙂

      Reply
  37. Kelly says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:13 pm

    Hi Heather, looks lovely! Now that some time has passed, has the paint project withstood the wear and tear of household activity? Just wondering if you’ve had any issues with chipping or cracking? Thanks!

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 18, 2018 at 11:01 am

      Hi Kelly – it’s held up beautifully! I’m so glad I did it! I’m doing a blog post on how it’s held up – stay tuned!! xo Heather

      Reply
  38. Jeanne says

    March 14, 2018 at 2:45 pm

    would love to see a picture of how the gray and white looks. I was also thinking of trying gray/white.

    Reply
  39. Julie says

    April 8, 2018 at 9:51 am

    I getting a new gas insert in mine in a couple weeks and I think I just found the solution for my out dated tile!! The link for the paint, you only used the primer/sealer in white – no actual paint? It looks beautiful!!!

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 8, 2018 at 4:11 pm

      Thanks Julie – we love our painted tile! Yes it’s paint/primer/sealer in one!

      Reply
  40. heather says

    May 5, 2018 at 9:45 am

    I’m so thrilled that you used my tutorial to paint your tile!! Isn’t it an incredible transformation? Thanks for sharing!! xo Heather

    Reply
  41. Shaney says

    June 28, 2018 at 8:37 pm

    The hearth of our fireplace is tile and I would love to paint the entire thing but am worried about falling embers. Have you experienced this?

    Reply
    • heather says

      June 29, 2018 at 4:00 pm

      Hi Shaney! Our fireplace is electric so I don’t have experience with embers.

      Reply
  42. Lauren says

    July 14, 2018 at 6:44 am

    Hi Heather!

    Dumb question, but did you just paint over the grout with this paint too?

    Thanks!
    Lauren

    Reply
    • heather says

      July 14, 2018 at 4:21 pm

      Hi Lauren! Yes I did – I painted over the grout! 🙂

      Reply
  43. rachael says

    August 1, 2018 at 11:20 pm

    Can you use this same paint around a wood burning fireplace? We have black slate tile, that is fine, but our house is light gray and white and it sticks out like a sore thumb!

    Reply
    • heather says

      August 2, 2018 at 8:40 am

      I’m not sure! My fireplace is electric not wood burning. I would ask you local hardware store to see if it’s possible.

      Reply
  44. Kate Sextom says

    August 11, 2018 at 5:50 pm

    What is the Exact paint/ Primer that you used?

    Reply
    • heather says

      August 12, 2018 at 3:25 pm

      I used exactly what is in the instructions and supply list.

      Reply
  45. Denise says

    February 3, 2019 at 11:33 am

    Could we have the paint you used tinted to match our off white trim?

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 6, 2019 at 8:56 am

      I don’t know, I’ve never tried it! I’d message/email the manufacturer to ask them, I’m sure they will help you answer your question!

      Reply
  46. Lisa says

    March 26, 2019 at 8:36 pm

    I love your fireplace and want to do this myself, but notice you mention a couple times you have an electric fireplace. Mine is gas. I have the same tiles you do surrounding my gas fireplace and am wondering if it makes a difference in terms of safety. Would you happen to know? The manufacturer is out of business…

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 17, 2020 at 9:29 am

      Hi Lisa – I don’t know about that.

      Reply
  47. Jen says

    April 11, 2019 at 11:45 pm

    When you say “electric” fireplace do you mean gas fireplace? I have the same beige tile and juat finished painting my honey oak matle white and would love to paint my tile. My fireplace is gas and looks exactly like yours.

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 17, 2019 at 2:58 pm

      Hi Jen – No I don’t have a gas fireplace, our’s is electric. There is a difference between a gas and electric fireplace. Hope that helps!

      Reply
  48. Elizabeth says

    May 25, 2019 at 12:17 am

    hi Heather … this is amazing! We have beige tiles around our gas fireplace and were thinking of retiling. This saves time and $$$. Does the primer come gray too?

    Reply
    • heather says

      May 27, 2019 at 9:49 am

      Thanks so much Elizabeth! Yes it comes in gray too!
      You can see the gray version here: https://rstyle.me/+-ZOHFc41KSv1NXyHQxWgww

      Reply
  49. Jonie says

    May 28, 2019 at 11:54 am

    Hi Heather,

    Can it be removed easily when needed? I live in an apartment and I am wanting to paint the fireplace but whenever it is time to move, I want to return to original condition.

    Reply
    • heather says

      May 29, 2019 at 3:12 pm

      Hi Jonie – I don’t think it can be removed…..maybe you can ask your landlord if you can paint it and leave it?

      Reply
  50. Izabel says

    June 20, 2019 at 1:23 pm

    How long did you wait in between each coat?

    Reply
    • heather says

      June 24, 2019 at 8:46 am

      I followed the dry time of the paint’s time instructions!

      Reply
  51. Mandy says

    August 21, 2019 at 11:39 am

    Does it still look this way? I’m debating on painting the tile around my fireplace but wondering how long it lasts…

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 17, 2020 at 9:26 am

      Yes -it still looks this way and has lasted 5 years!

      Reply
  52. Pam Andrews says

    January 23, 2020 at 4:38 pm

    Hi Heather. Your fireplace project looks awesome! I am wanting to do something different with mine. If I showed you a picture, could you give me an idea? I would be so grateful. It is a real fireplace.

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 17, 2020 at 9:25 am

      Sure! I help my design clients with their fireplaces often! Email me at [email protected] and we can discuss.

      Reply
  53. Bree says

    April 20, 2020 at 10:53 pm

    I am following you instructions exactly and using a Purdy paint brush not a roller. I just finished the 2nd coat and I can see the brush strokes pretty clearly. Are they noticeable on your fireplace with the 3 coats of paint? Would love to know and thanks for the idea.

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 21, 2020 at 10:16 am

      I don’t have visible brush strokes on my painted tile. I used flat brushes that I listed in the supply list and are linked in the post, not a Purdy paint brush. You’re welcome for the idea! We love our tile makeover!

      Reply
  54. Marla Allen says

    April 26, 2020 at 3:07 pm

    Hi Heather, this looks absolute great! I noticed you put in bold *You have an electric fireplace* why did you mention that and put it in bold? Was that a warning for something in particular?

    Reply
    • heather says

      April 27, 2020 at 8:41 am

      Hi Marla – I just put it in bold because a lot of people ask me if I have an electric fireplace or gas fireplace! I have an electric fireplace. Hope that helps!

      Reply
  55. Marla Allen says

    April 28, 2020 at 1:28 am

    Yes that helps. Thank you so much!

    Reply
  56. Shayna Hamilton says

    June 25, 2020 at 11:33 am

    Hi there! Love what you did! Do you really need to get those paint brushes? They are $40 for the two and wondering if I can find somewhere else
    Cheaper! I so appreciate your links to everything you got!!

    Reply
    • heather says

      June 29, 2020 at 9:48 am

      Using quality paint brushes results in no brush marks in the paint and a better look. Have fun painting your tile!

      Reply
  57. Shayna Hamilton says

    July 2, 2020 at 6:30 pm

    Hi again! I’m on my second coat of painting the mantel white. I’m still seeing a lot of brush strokes. I’m using the brush you linked. I’m not using the roller you linked because it left a kind of “wall” texture look! Any tips? Finishing third coat tomorrow! Thanks!!

    Reply
  58. Jenna says

    August 21, 2020 at 7:31 am

    How much of the paint did you need?

    Reply
    • heather says

      August 22, 2020 at 10:57 am

      Not a lot! I didn’t use the entire can.

      Reply
  59. Alison says

    September 14, 2020 at 6:36 am

    Hi! I recently used the same primer to paint our tile fireplace. I love the look! However, when I was removing the painters tape some of the primer peeled off of the tile. After 4 coats it peeled all the way down to the tile. So I was wondering, do you think it will be fine after the 7 day cure time the primer states? Or should I put some sort of sealer over the top?
    Thank you!
    Alison

    Reply
  60. Audrey says

    January 7, 2021 at 1:47 pm

    Hey! I’m trying to click on the painters tape but it’s taking me to a dead end on Amazon! Which tape do you use?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • heather says

      January 11, 2021 at 11:10 am

      Hi – this is the affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3i568Va

      Reply
  61. Janice Rodriguez says

    March 8, 2021 at 5:34 pm

    I was preparing to stucco over the multicolored tile on my living room fireplace when I came across your post. I followed your suggestions and my fireplace looks clean and fresh. I had the paint tinted Benjamin Moore White Dove and it looks amazing now. Thank you!

    Reply
    • heather says

      March 9, 2021 at 12:36 pm

      Oh fabulous! Thank you Janice for sharing your experience! I love Benjamin Moore White Dove and I’m so happy to hear that you tinted the paint to that gorgeous color! I’m so glad you love your painted fireplace tile! We still love ours to this day! xo Heather

      Reply
  62. Miriah says

    October 27, 2021 at 12:54 pm

    I did this – used the same primer – mostly with a roller brush except for the tight areas. It worked SO well. I was so happy! My fireplace is in a north facing room so I did find the white of the primer to be a bit too harsh, so I painted over it with Sherwin Williams’ Alabaster, just normal paint, and it looks fantastic. No sanding, just cleaned the tile, then did the painting according to the directions on the primer can. I did need four coats of primer, but my tiles were a very dark grey so that’s likely the difference for me. Thank you so so much!

    Reply
    • heather says

      October 28, 2021 at 5:40 pm

      Fabulous! I’m so gad you love the results!

      Reply
  63. Zenia says

    February 12, 2022 at 2:55 pm

    Hi Heather! Amazon no longer sells the first paint brush you mentioned 🙁 any other recommendations?

    Reply
    • heather says

      February 13, 2022 at 12:06 pm

      You could try this 2″ artist brush – it should work here is the affiliate link for it: https://amzn.to/3oLmRl9 Hope that helps!

      Reply
  64. Nina says

    June 10, 2022 at 11:50 am

    Hi Heather. I’ve used both types of brushes. I’m on my third coat of paint now..and I still see paint brush streaks. I’m thinking I’ll need to do some sort of roller brush now, or just sticky tile the fireplace. It was the same Beige tile.you had, I bought the recommended paint. Any ideas?

    Reply
  65. Christa says

    September 29, 2022 at 4:27 pm

    The paint link takes me to a primer – what paint did you use? Large tile area on fireplace to paint black. Thank you!

    Reply
    • heather says

      October 6, 2022 at 7:41 pm

      That’s what I used.

      Reply
  66. Stephanie Cohen says

    January 14, 2024 at 6:37 pm

    Hi. I like the fireplace a lot. I have ugly, brown, “rough surface” tile on mine. I’d like to have it painted all white like yours. I don’t have a wood mantel. My question: Your fireplace is electric. Mine is gas and wood so it allows for a real flame. I don’t use wood anymore due to termite issues. I do use it with gas logs. It gets hot. Is the paint you used SAFE to use on my gas/wood burning fireplace?

    Thanks.

    Reply

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