Travertine tile, a kind of limestone composite, has a porous, powdery texture.
Travertine is a type of limestone that home decorators and artists use for decoration and works of art. Travertine stone tiles are extremely porous -- full of small, spongelike holes -- but are also dense and durable. Raw, untreated travertine looks porous and dusty, but painted or treated Travertine can appear smooth and glossy. When choosing to paint Travertine tile, make sure to prepare the tiles before applying the first layers of primer and paint.
Instructions
1. Clean the tile and grout. Use a soft-bristle scrub brush or paintbrush to dust the tiles. Brush away any stone dust so the paint will be able to stick.
2. Select glossy or matte paints. At a paint or hobby store, ask for paints that have a low water content: Travertine tile's porous surface will not react well to watery paints.
3. Polish the tile. Apply a coat of a polish to the tile's surface until it gets a glossy look. Wait for the polish to dry.
4. Seal the tile. Seal with one to two coats of sealant after the polish dries. Fill any holes with the sealant. Wait for the sealant to dry, up to 24 hours, but usually less.
5. Coat on one layer of white, latex base paint. Apply the paint evenly using a wide or soft-bristle brush. Wait until the coat completely dries. The Travertine's spongelike material will absorb the first layer of paint, like a fresco painting.
6. Apply a first layer of glossy or matte paint. Add one thick layer. Aim not to make any brush strokes but to spread the paint evenly. If you are working on a big patch of tiles -- not a backsplash, for instance -- use a roller brush with an extended handle for fluid application.
7. Paint on more details. Use detailed or large brushes. Create a floral pattern, stenciled shapes or mural images -- whatever you wish to make a gorgeous painted tile design.
8. Add two or three more sealant layers after you have finished painting and/or stenciling. Apply the gloss over the paint to lock in your work and protect the tile's surface.
