Coloring grout with acrylic paint is a cost-effective way to refresh the look of your tile. To color grout using acrylic paint, you will mix the acrylic paint with water to create a wash and then apply it directly to the grout lines using a paintbrush.
Supplies Needed for Grout Coloring
Before you begin, gather your materials:
- Acrylic paint (choose your desired color)
- Water
- Mixing container
- Small paintbrush (an artist's brush or detail brush works well)
- Clean cloths or sponges
- Painter's tape (optional, for protecting tiles)
- Grout cleaner and brush
- Grout sealer (recommended for durability)
Preparing the Grout
Proper preparation is key to a successful grout coloring project.
- Clean the Grout: Thoroughly clean the grout lines to remove any dirt, grime, or soap scum. Use a dedicated grout cleaner and a stiff brush for best results. Rinse the area well and let the grout dry completely.
- Protect Tiles (Optional): If your tiles are very porous or have a textured surface, you may want to protect them using painter's tape along the edges of the grout lines. However, with careful application and quick wiping, this might not be necessary for all tile types.
Mixing the Acrylic Paint
Based on the video reference, the next step is to prepare the paint mixture.
- Mix Acrylic Paint with Water: When you're ready to apply color, mix acrylic paint with water in your container. The goal is to dilute the paint significantly.
- Achieve Milky Consistency: Continue mixing until you achieve a milky consistency. This creates a "color wash" that can easily seep into the porous grout. The exact ratio will depend on the paint's thickness, but start with a small amount of paint and gradually add water, mixing until the desired consistency is reached.
Applying the Color Wash
With the paint mixed, you are ready to apply it to the grout lines.
- Use a Paintbrush: Use a paint brush to dab over the grout with the color wash. Dip the brush into the mixture and carefully apply it directly onto the grout line, allowing the thinned paint to flow into the pores.
- Work in Sections: Apply the color to small sections at a time.
- Wipe Excess Promptly: Acrylic paint can stain tile surfaces if left too long, especially on unglazed or porous tiles. Have a clean, damp cloth or sponge ready to immediately wipe away any paint that gets onto the surrounding tiles before it dries.
Drying and Sealing
After applying the color wash:
- Allow to Dry: Let the colored grout dry completely according to the paint's instructions. This may take several hours.
- Apply Grout Sealer: For increased durability and water resistance, it is highly recommended to apply a grout sealer after the paint has dried. Choose a sealer appropriate for your type of grout and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Sealing will help protect the colored grout from future stains and wear.
By following these steps, including mixing your acrylic paint with water to a milky consistency and dabbing it onto the grout with a paintbrush as shown in the reference, you can successfully update your grout color.
