• Solid backsplashes make the rest of the kitchen pop.le kitchen image by sumos from Fotolia.com
  
  Kitchen backsplashes can be the design focal point of a kitchen, or they can simply blend into the background, depending on your design style. With just a little paint and the right tools, there are any number of colors or designs that you can place on your backsplash to spruce up your kitchen.
  
  

One Solid Color

• Don't overlook the obvious when you go to paint your backsplash. Making the backsplash one solid color is a great way to highlight the kitchen, and is especially attractive if you have a busy countertop, like granite. The color should be bold and dark to really jump out, like a red, green or black. Stay away from soft or light colors as any stains from normal kitchen use will stand out.
  
  

Make a Mosaic

• Mosaics are normally a collection of colored stones or glass that are pieced together to create a loose image. While you can't paint a true mosaic, you can create a similar look on your backsplash. The difficult method is to paint the outlines of the stones in black and then fill in the spaces with color. The easier way is to use a square sponge, cut down to the size you want, to apply the paint in little squares all over the backsplash. You can try out different patterns on a large piece of paper first, until you find a pattern that you like.
  
  

Faux Tile

• With a little paint and some tape, you can create a tile look without the expense or hassle of installing real tile. Paint the entire backsplash the color you want your grout to be, then use strips of masking tape to mark the grout lines. Paint the tiles whatever color you want. Many tile patterns are single color, but you can also use two or three different shades of the same color to mix it up a bit. Remove the tape to expose the grout lines and from a distance, you can't tell the difference from a tile backsplash.
  
  

Chalkboard Paint

• If you are open to some unorthodox kitchen backsplashes, there are some types of paint that are more than just decoration. Cover your backsplash with chalkboard paint that you can use to make notes, keep shopping lists or let the kids have some fun decorating. Like any chalkboard, you can erase the board whenever you need to make a change. Chalkboard paints are available in a rainbow of colors in addition to traditional green and black.
  
  

Magnetic Paint

• Magnetic paint is another type of paint that is more than just decoration. Tiny particles in the paint create a surface that magnets will stick to, so you can place decorative magnets on the backsplash, or use magnets to hang things much like people do with refrigerators. There is even magnetic paint available that also acts like chalkboard paint.