
Decide what size you want the backsplash to be installed. Generally, a backsplash extends at least 4" up from the countertop and often to the bottom of wall cabinets. If your kitchen countertop is tiled as well, plan the layout so the backsplash grout veins line up with the countertop grout veins. If you don't have a tiled countertop, start the first row of tiles in the center of the wall where the backsplash will be located.
When choosing colors for your backsplash, take the existing colors in your kitchen into account. This includes walls, counters and cabinetry. Your backsplash colors shouldn't compete with the counter and wall colors. Your goal should be to tie all the room colors together with your backsplash. This can mean using two or three tile colors that complement each other and the room well, or a simple one-color backsplash. If you have a lot of stainless steel appliances in your kitchen, a silver or metallic-color tile can be a nice accent. Whites and neutral colors, such as browns, beiges and grays, are a classic standby and go with many colors of wood, floor tile and countertops.