Stenciled Tile DIY Fireplace Makeover

Welcome friends! I’m so happy to finally be sharing my family room stenciled tile DIY fireplace makeover with you!! I’ve wanted to update this fireplace since we moved here four years ago.  Well, I finally got inspired over the summer and just went for it!  Friends, I am so happy with the results I can’t believe I didn’t do it sooner!! Let’s take a look at the before:

Yup, pretty typical 90’s fireplace with beige tile and brass accents.

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step 1: get rid of the brass

If you have a fireplace like this and you’ve been on the fence about painting out the brass, just do it!! I promise you will not be disappointed! My brass slats actually pop off, so it was an even easier job than I expected.

This Rust-Oleum high heat worked like a charm. I gave each slat a good 3 coats outside.  If you’re working indoors, make sure you have good ventilation and cover and tape off all other surfaces, floors etc.

step 2: prepare, prime, and paint base coat

With the brass gone I was really encouraged and motivated to get going on the next step, preparing the tile. I wiped it down with a bit of soapy water and rinsed well. Then I taped off all areas that needed protecting: around the fireplace insert, hardwood floor, walls etc.

I applied 2 coats of primer meant for tile: cutting in with a brush then rolling it out. I allowed that to dry overnight, then applied one coat of my base paint. Things were looking better all ready!

Step 3: apply stencil

The stencil I used for this project is from Cutting Edge Stencils. They have so many amazing styles to choose from, step by step instructions, and how to videos on their website. I chose Abbey wall stencil in their smallest size, 6 x 6. It was a good choice for this project, as I only had to trim it slightly. I also wanted the ’tiles” to appear smaller than the original tiles, which I think were too big for this space.

Once you have your stencil in place, use painters tape to secure. My tips for success are: 1) don’t overload your roller with paint (too much paint can cause bleed) and 2) apply light pressure, going over stencil thoroughly, but not pressing too hard.  Figuring out the placement of the stencils did take some time and I was happy to have my hubby’s help with this project. Are you ready to see the after?

Ta da!! Do you love it as much as I do?!? Honestly I can’t believe this is the same fireplace! I’m so happy with how this project turned out!

I hope you found my stenciled tile DIY fireplace makeover helpful.  Not only has it given my fireplace a whole new look, but the whole room just feels so much brighter!  If you’ve been thinking of giving wall or floor stenciling or painting over tile a try, I say go for it!! I’d love for you to share your experience or any questions or comments below!

XO JUDY