Q&A for How to Do Tile Painting

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I am painting a picture with oil based paint on the tile. If I sand the gloss off, do I still need a primer coat?

Community Answer

Yes, it's always good to prime to ensure your paint stays down and to enhance the durability of your painting.

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Question

What type of pencil should I use to draw on the tile?

Community Answer

Any normal pencil should be fine, but be careful, because if done too heavily, the pencil lines will be visible after you are finished!

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Question

How do I paint outdoor tile?

Community Answer

Follow the same steps in the article, except check to make sure your primer, paint, and sealant are all suitable for outdoors.

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Question

Can these same tips be applied to tiles already on the wall?

Community Answer

If it is a wall of a bathroom, kitchen, or a room where lots of water collects, you may want to seal the tile with multiple coats after painting. Also, make sure there is no mold on the tiles, and that they are completely dry before the painting process. Don't allow housemates to use plumbing around the tiles until they are dry. Otherwise, it should be safe.

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Question

I want the smooth finish of the tile to be seen. I lose it if I prime it. Do I have to use the primer?

Community Answer

If you want to retain the gloss effect of the tile, you can't paint it at all. Even a high-gloss sealant won't have the same look as kiln-glazed tile.

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Question

Can I use them on the floor

Community Answer

Yes, but it's best to avoid high-traffic areas like the kitchen or hallway. Paint applied to tile is much more fragile than glazed tile or painted wood, and scuffing will damage it.

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Question

Can I paint tile that is lightly textured?

Community Answer

You may use a fine grit sandpaper to remove some undesirable texture. If you want to keep the texture, it should be fine as long as the texture isn't too rough or bumpy, such as the texture you find on bricks or stone.

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Question

Can I use chalk paint for my art work?

Community Answer

Chalk paint isn't recommended because it's water-based. This means that it's not as stable as oil or enamel paints, so you're likely to see chipping or bubbling, especially if it's a high-gloss tile.

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Question

I have painted my ceramic subway tile kitchen counter, and, after one coat of oil based paint, the counters feel rough. Can I fix this by sanding them?

Community Answer

You could sand them, but a better option would be to add another coat of paint. Most painted tiles will need at least two coats.

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Question

Do I have to prime the tile in order to paint designs with oil paint?

Community Answer

It's highly recommended. Painted tile is not a permanent fix, and a primer will add significant time to your tile's longevity.

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