So You Want Your Walls to Zig-Zag Like a Drunken Bee? A Guide to Herringbone Subway Tile (That Won't Leave You Crying in the Corner)
Let's face it, boring, flat walls are about as exciting as watching paint dry (although, have you seen those time-lapse videos? Kinda mesmerizing). You crave pizazz! You yearn for a backsplash that'll make your guests say "Wow, did you do that yourself?" (Yes, you did.Shh, we won't tell.) Well, my friend, herringbone subway tile is your answer. It's chic, it's classic, and it's surprisingly achievable, even if you're the kind of person who struggles to put together an Ikea chair without swearing like a sailor.
But First, What the Heck is Herringbone?
Imagine a fishbone. Now, imagine it got a little tipsy and decided to zig-zag instead of lying nice and straight. That, my friends, is herringbone in a nutshell. Those little rectangular tiles get all cozy together, creating a beautiful, angled pattern that'll make your heart sing (or at least make your walls look like they do).
Gather Your Herringbone Heroes (Tools and Stuff):
- Tiles: This might seem obvious, but hey, better safe than sorry. Get enough to cover your project, with a little extra for those inevitable "oops, I launched that tile into hyperspace" moments.
- Thinset: The glue that'll keep your dreams (and your tiles) from falling apart.
- Notched Trowel: Basically a fancy comb for spreading that thinset nice and even.
- Level: Because wonky walls are the enemies of a perfect herringbone.
- Spacers: These little guys ensure your tiles don't end up in a big, glutinous blob.
- Tile Cutter: Unless you're some kind of diamond-handed tile ninja, you'll need this to make clean cuts for those edges and corners.
- Grout and Grout Float: For filling in those beautiful gaps and making your masterpiece water-resistant (important, especially in bathrooms and kitchens).
- Utility Knife: Because sometimes, life (and tile) throws you a curveball.
- Safety Glasses and Knee Pads: Safety first, people! Don't be that person who ends up in the ER with a rogue tile shard in their eye (and trust me, nobody wants to see your knees crying for mercy).
Let's Get This Herringbone Party Started!
- Prep Work is Key: Clear the area, remove any outlets or fixtures, and make sure your walls are clean, dry, and smooth. Nobody wants their herringbone looking like a bumpy rollercoaster ride.
- Plan Your Attack: Decide where you want your beautiful zig-zag to begin and mark a straight line using your level (remember, wonky walls are the enemy!). This will be your guiding light.
- Mix, Spread, Stick!: Here comes the fun (and slightly messy) part. Mix your thinset according to the package instructions (consistency is key!), spread it on the wall with your notched trowel, and then, with the grace of a seasoned tile-laying ballerina, start placing your tiles in the classic herringbone pattern. Be gentle, but firm. Press those tiles in there good.
- The Magic of Spacers: Don't forget your trusty spacers! These little heroes will ensure your grout lines are nice and even throughout your masterpiece.
- Cutting Corners (Literally): Those edges and corners will require some tile-cutting action. Use your tile cutter (and safety glasses!) for clean cuts.
- Let it Set: Once you've covered your designated area, take a well-deserved break and let everything dry completely. Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to tile adhesive.
- Grouting Glory: Now comes the time to fill in those gaps and make your creation water-resistant. Mix your grout, apply it with your grout float, and then remove the excess with a damp sponge. This might take some practice, but don't worry, a little grout haze can be buffed away with a dry cloth.
- Sealing the Deal: Once your grout is completely dry, apply a sealer to protect it from stains and moisture. Now, stand back and admire your handiwork! You've transformed your boring walls into a thing of beauty (and maybe even learned a new word or two in the process - herringbone, anyone?).
Bonus Tip: Feeling overwhelmed? Don't be afraid to practice your herringbone pattern on a piece of cardboard first. It's a great way to get the hang of things
