DIY Network

Custom Tile Headboard with Columns: Grout From "Weekend Remodeling" episode WKR-307

	Before the Weekend Remodeling project, this bedroom needed a focal point.
	After: the bedroom boasts more than just a bed. It now has a work of art that was created in only two days!

Finally, with all the tile work complete, host Fuad Reveiz grouts all of the tilework, and cleans it all up.

On a difficulty scale of 1-5, this project ranks 4. Estimated time of completion: 16 hours over 2 days (if materials bought in advance).

Materials:

Several types of tile (smaller pieces for base and capitals; porcelain stone chair rail pieces; metal tiles for accents)
Mastic
Tile spacers
Caulk
Tile grout (both non-sanded latex-modified grout and sanded grout)
Drop cloth
2 x 4
1/2" drywall
Screws
Notched trowel
Wet saw
Circular saw
Sponge and bucket
Soft rubber float
Tape measure and pencil
Level
Reciprocating saw
Utility knife
Speed square
Rubber gloves
A drill and bits

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

1. Mix up non-sanded latex-modified grout. When grout has reached a consistency just a little thinner than peanut butter, use a plastic bag to transfer the mixture to a regular squeeze bottle. Start filling the tiny grout joints on the columns (figure A). Use fingers as needed, to make sure grout gets fully into each space.

2. Use the same grout mixture to grout around metal tiles, then come back and color the grout later.

3. When the entire area has been grouted and has dried to a light haze, use clean water and a sponge to wipe down the tiles (figure B). Take care to make sure that sponge isn't too wet -- which could remove some of the grout.

4. Repeat technique for the arch and headboard. Grout small joints of the arch using the same method as for columns. Start with the long seams across the arch, then come back and fill the joints between the metal tiles. Lastly, fill the joint at the top of the headboard between the quarter round and the metal liners.

5. Use a utility knife to remove all tile spacers. Because the remaining grout joints are larger than 1/8" thick, mix sanded grout. Mix the powder with water to the same consistency as the non-sanded grout previously used. Work into the grout lines using a float (figure C).

6. Work grout around the metal accent tiles without covering them completely. When the grout has dried, use sponge to clean the area.

7. Apply caulk in the same color as the grout to the areas of tiles that meet the wall. Color the grout joints between the metal accent tiles using a colored marker or lead pencil (figure D).