An apron for the kitchen in this case is not a piece of clothing. We will talk about kitchen aprons, which also protect against splashes of water and grease, dirt and grime. But not the outfit (or the greasy robe - depending on who you choose) of the housewife, but the wall behind kitchen table and a stove. And we’ll figure out why, from what and how to make an apron on the wall with your own hands.
For what?
The wall behind the stove has been lined with durable, dense and easy-to-clean materials for a long time. The reason is clear: this is the most dirty spot in the kitchen. You shouldn’t rely on paneling, plastering and painting: everyone knows that grease and soot eat into ordinary finishing, and it’s expensive to cover all the walls with expensive, durable materials. A kitchen apron takes up a small area and is relatively inexpensive. If necessary, it can be replaced without undertaking a general repair. But at the same time, some features appear in its implementation compared to continuous finishing, because The apron actually hangs on the wall. But more on this later.
The second reason has appeared in our days along with new materials. For aprons, in particular, tempered carbonate glass. A wide variety of designs can be applied to it to suit the overall design of the room, see fig. In addition, the glass apron is a solid, very hard plane that is absolutely resistant to grease, is easy to clean and lasts for decades.
In a kitchen with a glass apron, the lighting from the bottom of the hanging cabinet is especially aesthetically impressive. Carbonate glass has a high refractive index, which gives a beautiful play of light. But, of course, it is not forbidden to highlight any other apron.
Of what?
So, we already know something necessary to make an apron in the kitchen ourselves: it must be light enough to hang on the wall and not absorb splashes and fumes dirty water, fat, detergents. The last ones especially. Modern detergents can seep almost between molecules. In recent years, studies on kitchen contamination have been carried out in different countries. For walls, the conclusion is clear: they lose their appearance more from ingrained detergent residues than from traditional kitchen dirt.
Tile
The tile backsplash is literally as old as the hills. Kitchens have been tiled with ceramics since ancient times. In terms of hygiene, glazed ceramics seem to be suitable for the kitchen, but! Sheets or slabs big size it is not produced and cannot be manufactured: when fired, it behaves and warps.
Tile is tile: tile cladding always has seams. Which, in terms of hygiene, immediately reduce all the advantages of tiles to nothing: they are very free for dirt, and in it for fungi and microbes. Nevertheless, ceramic kitchen aprons remain in use: modern grout mixtures make it possible to achieve proper hygiene of seams for 10 years, the technology has been proven for centuries, and the materials are inexpensive. Labor intensity, however, is tiled.
Varieties ceramic aprons shown in Fig. The first one on the left is a classic tiled splashback, but the tiles are narrower modern production. The difference between this and the “good old Soviet” ones is visible without explanation.
In the center is an original apron made of . Generally speaking, such a solution is not for everyone with the means: the cost of the material is high, and the labor intensity is generally prohibitive, if you take into account the features of the apron, see below.
On the right is a mosaic apron. - an extremely complex and labor-intensive type of decorative art, but for individual small patterned panels modern manufacturers offer interesting solution: sets of ready-made fragments, size 200x200 mm or more, with elements of a mosaic seamless pattern. The drawing is developed on a computer. Having only 10-20 standard pieces at your disposal, you can get hundreds and thousands of different patterns, i.e. each of them will be almost unique, and the cost of a custom-made mosaic apron is comparable to a tiled one.
Glass
A glass apron, or skinali, is a relatively recent innovation. It appeared thanks to computer-controlled glass cutting on special machines and a sharp reduction in the cost of artificial diamond production technology in the last 10-15 years. The fact is that it is almost impossible to cut hardened carbonate: it not only breaks, but breaks up into small round fragments.
Ordinary glass, even if it is thick, is not suitable for an apron: if boiling water is accidentally splashed, it can crack, throwing out traumatic fragments. Due to fluctuations in temperature and humidity, thick glass begins to float on weight over 5-7 years (remember, glass is not a solid body, but an extremely viscous liquid), a gap forms between it and the wall, in which dirt accumulates, forming nauseating stains.
Tempered glass is free from these shortcomings, but it is expensive, and together with computer cutting to order, it is even more expensive. Therefore more in use ready-made aprons factory production. Their sizes are usually consistent with those of certain types of kitchen units.
About drawings on glass
Take another look at Fig. at first. Glass allows you to achieve a variety of decorative effects: imitation of stone (top left), a visible increase in the depth of space (top center), which is especially important for a cramped kitchen, flat and 3D images, from abstract to “delicious”. How is this achieved?
The first method is photo printing. Layers of a special high-strength photographic emulsion are applied to the base, giving additional base colors, as in slide film. Then they are exposed to ultraviolet light through mask negatives, developed and covered with a protective film of acrylic or melamine.
The photographic method allows you to obtain images that are stunningly realistic and fit exactly into the design. In addition, such panels can be permanently glued to the wall with silicone. There are two disadvantages: they are expensive, and the durability of the image, although it exceeds 5 years, is still not comparable to that of a glass base.
The second method is to stick a plastic poster with a picture on the wall, and put glass on top. The edge is sealed with silicone so that the drawing does not penetrate. Costs like this beautiful apron several times cheaper, but you have to give up 3D: even if the poster is three-dimensional, under the glass the three-dimensionality of the image disappears. Another drawback is that you have to fasten the glass to the wall with shaped screws. The fasteners are visible, but drilling carbonate glass costs money: 4 holes add to the price the same as cutting it into a rectangle.
About plexiglass and acrylic
Wouldn't plexiglass or acrylic work for an apron? They are easy to process with conventional tools, are water resistant, lighter ordinary glass. Heat resistance – above 100 degrees.
Unfortunately, it won't work. Since it can be easily processed with tools, it is also easy to scratch – once again. Waterproof - yes, but splashes of grease and surfactants from detergents eat into it instantly and deeply. Heat resistance of 105-130 degrees – for softening and loss of strength, but already at a temperature “swing” of 20-45 degrees (and for a stove it can be 60) within six months for plexiglass and 3-4 years for acrylic, clouding and yellowing begin and warping. So, alas, while acrylic will still work on windows, it will not work in the kitchen. And plexiglass is neither here nor there.
Organic
However, there are easily processed organic materials suitable for laying out an apron. These are durable facing plastics and MDF.
The best material for a plastic apron is special tiles. Most often it is produced in sets under a panel of a certain size with a pattern, see fig. left. In almost all respects, such an apron is not inferior to a glass apron with a 3D pattern, and costs one and a half to two times less. True, durability is 7-10 years, but by then the need for repairs will arise in modern apartments.
MDF provides the same durability. This is a good option for kitchens in retro and country style, in the center in Fig. Assembling an MDF apron is easy, just remove the paint from the wall (as below) and walk over the plaster with an abrasive mesh on a block, controlling the evenness with a rule or level, like a slatted one. MDF weighs little, and with liquid nails it stays firmly on the wall without additional fastenings.
If you need to quickly and inexpensively make an apron for 5 years, then plastic wall panels are suitable, on the right in Fig. You just need to take panels not for living rooms, but for the bathroom; There are also special ones for the kitchen. The difference is primarily in the filler, which gives White background. In ordinary panels it is chalk, and in moisture-resistant and not prone to warping panels it is marble powder.
In terms of price, this is not always noticeable; a “marble” board may turn out to be cheaper than a coated one. It is useless to ask sellers - at best they will repeat what is written in the specification, and that is not always true. But by wandering around and looking closely, you can learn to recognize them by eye.
On PVC with marble filler, firstly, the pattern appears to be hanging above a slightly iridescent white surface, see the figure on the right. However, this effect is weakly expressed; it is better to select it first and then examine the cut. Firstly, it will be smoother, almost smooth. Secondly, in the direct rays of the Sun, when the light falls at a certain angle, the smallest sparkling sparks will be noticeable on the cut.
Video: choosing a kitchen apron from 1 channel
How to do it?
Laying the apron begins with preparing the wall. For heavy ones - glass and ceramic - and light ones, plastic and MDF, it is produced differently. But first of all, you need to know where, to what level from the floor you need to work on the wall, because this is not an easy or clean job.
We calculate the lower limit of the apron simply: the height of the table surface (usually 850 mm) minus the thickness of the tabletop (40-60 mm) minus another 50 mm. There is no need to drive it deeper under the table; hanging cabinets may be too low. If a washing machine of greater height is built into the table, there is no point in providing a recess in the apron for it: the work or selection of the finished product becomes much more complicated. It’s easier to push the machine forward as far as possible so that there is a strip of tabletop behind it.
Further, the standard height of the finished solid apron is 600-750 mm. This is where difficulties arise. The fact is that splashes of fat from frying pans fly 800-900 mm, and the recommended height for hanging furniture above the stove is also 900 mm. Therefore, you need to either move the hanging cabinets away from the stove and install a splash-catching hood, on the left in the figure, or choose a kitchen set with hanging compartments of different heights, and place them on a ledge, on the right in the figure.
But such solutions are suitable if the apron is tiled. Already with wall panels, if they have a large pattern, difficulties arise. Ready-made glass aprons are produced in the form of a flat strip. Buying a very wide one means hiding a lot of money under the furniture in vain, and the cropped design will lose its expressiveness. Ordering cutting of a figured one will be even more expensive. A more or less acceptable solution is furniture from leading manufacturers with a melamine coating, but this will also have to be cleaned regularly and often before the grease and fumes from the next cooking set in.
The length of the apron is at your discretion. There are three selection conditions:
- From the stove - at least 900 mm in each direction.
- From the sink - the same, at least 600 mm.
- If the stove or sink is less than 900 mm from the adjacent wall, the overlap on it is 600 mm or more.
Preparing the wall
Under tiles or glass, you need to knock down the plaster to the base, and treat it until smooth with a strong cement primer for concrete or stone: Plitonit Grunt, Prospector. They give a rougher surface than Knauf, Ceresit and others “from there”, but in our language “oak”, and this is exactly what is needed.For light organic materials, it is enough to wash off the paint and level the plaster as described above. It is best to wash off with non-volatile detergents based on surfactants. They do not stink and do not produce toxic fumes. Surfactant removers come in two types: liquid for horizontal surfaces and gel for vertical surfaces. Naturally, we need a second one for the wall.
Next, for any apron, except perhaps MDF, you will need to install a permanent support underneath. Under the glass you need a support that is strong and at the same time not very rigid, i.e. wooden beam from 40x40 to 60x60, depending on the exit of the rear edge of the tabletop. It is attached to the wall with 6 mm screws in dowels. The length of the screws is chosen so that they extend into the wall by at least 70 mm. The fastening pitch is 150-250 mm.
For support under the tile, you can put a thin-walled perforated galvanized corner, it is cheaper than timber. And it’s easier to mount: using flea screws to the thickness of the plaster, if the tiles are plastic, and 20-25 mm into the wall under ceramics.
Laying
Tile
The most difficult part is laying the slab apron. The fact is that the sizes of tiles in the usual price category differ by 1-1.5 mm. With conventional cladding, this is hidden by the use of crosses. standard size– 3-4 mm. By the way, who doesn’t know, crosses are inserted into the corners of adjacent tiles to maintain the width of the seams; removed before grouting.
But wide seams on the apron cannot be made. To maintain hygiene, the apron is grouted using grout mixtures with polymer additives, and for them the maximum joint width is 1.5 mm, otherwise the polymer film, when dried, stretches, cracks and lets dirt into the seam. Therefore, 1.5 mm crosses are also needed for the apron.
But if you lay tiles on them, then you will see that the seams “walk” both horizontally and vertically. Therefore, you will have to immediately sacrifice a dozen or two crosses by biting off the hangers from them. For what? The shoulders of the crosses are wedge-shaped, and we will need small wedges when laying them:
- We lay the tiles on tile adhesive with a hardening time of 10-20 minutes.
- Using a notched trowel, apply a strip along the length of the apron and the width of the height of the tile to the wall from below above the stop.
- As soon as it comes unstuck (this is after 2-5 minutes), we lay the first row with support on the stop.
- We separate the tiles of the first row along the vertical seams with wedges cut from crosses, two per seam.
- Level the top edge of the tiles, driving wedges under the bottom.
- We wait until the glue has completely set and lay the second row in the same way as the first, only the top edge of the first row will now be the stop.
- We lay each subsequent row in the same way over the completely dried previous one.
With this method of laying, only the upper edges of the horizontal seams will “walk”, which is not so noticeable. And the “spill” of the seam will not increase as the apron is laid out in height.
Video: laying a kitchen tile backsplash
Mosaic
If the apron is a full-fledged mosaic panel, then they make it like a mosaic without any features. If mosaic splashback assembled from ready-made fragments, on tiles or on fiberglass mesh, they are laid in the same way as slabs. The sequence of work operations is illustrated in the figure, and some features are also visible in comparison with tiles, porcelain stoneware or plastic.
Firstly, they place it not on glue, but on a solution. As you work, you may have to move the fragments a little to adjust the borders of the pattern. The slab parts are moved with wedges or by beating with a rubber hammer; on the grid - simply pulling it with your fingers. But if it is laid on glue, it will quickly set, and even if it is plastic, it will lose strength due to mechanical stress.
Secondly, the solution you need is not cement-sand (it is too viscous, you can’t move anything on it) and not gypsum or alabaster (it is fluid, but fragile and sets too quickly), but gypsum-cement with a setting time of 2-6 hours. For the sake of greater fluidity, sand is added to it at least according to the instructions.
Glass
A one-piece glass apron, without metal fasteners, should be installed by at least three people. First of all, up from the top edge of the glass by 20-25 mm, holes are drilled into the wall for dowels with 4-5 mm self-tapping screws to a depth of 40-60 mm. Step – 300-600 mm. Dowels are driven into the holes, and claws or washers are prepared for the screws, grabbing the edge of the glass.
Next, holes are drilled in the support beam for the same screws. Diameter is the body of the self-tapping screw without thread, depth is 2/3 of the length of the self-tapping screw. The step and distance from the edge are as above. Claws or washers are also prepared in advance for the lower screws.
Then prepare (clean, degrease) the wall and glass for gluing with silicone. The silicone sausage is applied to the wall with a gun in a zigzag pattern, not with an envelope. Zigzag loops are vertical, horizontal ones will not hold well, see fig. Loop pitch is 30-40 mm.
Now two people carefully (no need to rush, the silicone hardens quite slowly) take the glass, and the third (and fourth, if the length of the apron is more than 1.5 m), crouching with both hands, places two flat screwdrivers on the support beam. The “servers” carefully place the glass on them and slowly lift the outer edge so that the apron slides into place over the screwdrivers.
When he got up, they pressed him to the wall and held him. Meanwhile, the “screwdriver” takes out, without pulling, the screwdrivers and manually screws in the self-tapping screws with tabs/washers until they lightly stop, first at the top. After this, the “servers” can relax a little and move to the sides so that the comrade below can work more conveniently. But you can release the glass only after all the screw holders have been tightened. They are removed only after the glue has completely dried twice.
Plastic and MDF
The construction of an apron made of plastic boards or MDF is no different from cladding a wall without sheathing. The apron on the sheathing not only sticks out too much on the walls. In the kitchen, under the sheathing, smoke will inevitably settle and harmful microflora and microfauna will multiply.
After installation
When the heavy apron is already in place, the wall is plastered flush with its surface and the furniture is put in place. Light and mosaic aprons are usually made along the opening, without moving the furniture. When the glue/mortar is completely dry, seal the contour at the top and sides with silicone. How to be above the countertop - more on that below.
Finishing touch
At some point the table will have to be moved, and it cannot be glued to the apron. But then there will be silk left along which the smoke and dirt will go down. How to cover it? There are different options here, but the simplest is a side made of tabletop material. This is what they glue to the apron. And the gap between it and the table is plugged with a PVC edging just tightly, without any additional fastening. The edge is driven into the slot with a blunt, wide flat screwdriver. The second option is a table top with a side, and a edging between it and the apron, see fig. This way you don’t need to glue anything to the apron and push the piping in. But if the table moves back a little, the dirt will fall down.
About sockets
Sockets dangling in the apron are a common problem in “apron” kitchens. In order for the sockets on the apron to sit securely, the wiring must be installed with some special features.
What's better?
So, which apron is best for decorating a kitchen? If you have money for a glass one, this is definitely it. In addition to ideal hygiene, we get wonderful aesthetics.
12 options for a kitchen apron made from scrap materials are very affordable, easy and fast! They're all simple, cheap and can be made (or removed) in literally minutes, making them ideal for renters or anyone looking to change up their kitchen splashback.
So let’s look at what to make a kitchen apron from and what materials are used for installation.
Such panels allow you to conveniently place the necessary kitchen utensils, hanging them in any place on the wall you choose.
- you need to attach the panels to the walls,
- and then insert hooks from the store into the holes household appliances, and their location can be constantly changed depending on your needs.
Apron made from photo frames
To make an apron in the form of a photo gallery, you need:
- thin piece of plywood,
- covered with fabric onto which small nails are nailed (or screws are screwed in)
- and in Frames with photographs are missing.
And the small gallery in the kitchen is ready!
Apron made of paper or card
Look how wonderfully an apron made from a glued-on world map combines with a white kitchen furniture. A really easy way to make your kitchen original! How to do:
- Cut off thin piece of plywood to the exact size of the wall, glue the paper on top,
- and then apply varnish(so that the paper does not get wet from moisture and steam in the kitchen).
- Once dry, attach the plywood to the wall.
They used cards here, but you could use wrapping paper, comic books, magazine covers, anything like that.
You can attach to kitchen wall frequently used recipes, this will save you from having to look for them when necessary, and will add an interesting touch to your kitchen design. You can also attach your favorite quotes or poems.
Vinyl oilcloth
A vintage white tablecloth with a blue floral pattern will create a charming kitchen backsplash. The kitchen immediately becomes more pleasant and cozy.
Apron made of wood or MDF
Wooden planks add a touch of flair rustic style. To make such an apron, you will need a thin piece of plywood exactly the size of the wall. All the boards are cut to the required length and attached to the plywood, and then the whole thing is screwed to the wall.
How to do it yourself:
- To create such an apron, wooden boards were painted white,
- and then cut into equal pieces (the size of tiles).
- After this, all the “tiles” are attached to a thin piece of plywood that is the size of the wall, and then the plywood is attached to the wall.
And another option for stencil painting:
Painted walls can also be decorated additional elements decor. For example, this kitchen apron was painted using stencils, and then hearts were glued on top, which go wonderfully with the chosen pattern:
Love the tile pattern but don't want to bother laying the tile? Then try options to imitate it. For example, here is a wonderful example of painted white tiles. All you need is paint and precise markings of the wall.
Tile
Create a mosaic backsplash with your own design using small tiles different colors. For example, in this case we needed a dark brown tiles for the floor.
You can also create a mosaic pattern by breaking large tiles into smaller pieces before attaching them to the wall. The result is similar to the previous one, but more chaotic, without clear lines.
If you like more formal shapes and colors, then pay attention to this combination of small tiles in white, brown and gray:
When using very small tiles, it seems that the colors transform into each other and shimmer. In the example in the photo, a dark color scheme was chosen, but with such tiles you can experiment with even the brightest colors.
The shape of the tile has a great influence on the result, for example, taking a hexagonal tile instead of a square one immediately achieves an original effect. It is especially good to take hexagonal tiles, which have some color transitions, like here from white to gray:
Using tiles you can achieve a 3D effect. To do this, lay the tiles not side by side at the joint, but overlapping each other, creating volume. For example, like in this case:
Regular kitchen apron finishing ceramic tiles, tempered glass with a standard photo print from a catalog or a plastic wall panel seems too boring to you? In this collection of photos you will find unusual, bright, stylish, but very real and practical ideas for decorating aprons that are easy to implement in your kitchen. The material was prepared by the site Krasivayaplitka.ru.
1. Handmade ceramic tiles
Using unique finishing materials- one of the fashion trends in interior design. Finish your backsplash with handmade and painted tiles. It will bring special warmth to the kitchen design, make the interior unique and emphasize your individuality.
Tiles by individual order It can be different - painted and plain, smooth and embossed. In terms of strength and practicality, it is in no way inferior to the factory one. But you can bring your ideas to life or choose an idea from a catalog.
This finish can be made to order in a ceramic workshop. But if your renovation budget is limited, take a closer look at factory ceramics collections. You can find from many large manufacturers ready-made tiles, which in appearance are difficult to distinguish from handmade ones. Of course, there are fewer design options; you will have to choose from what is available, but the cost is much lower.
- WE RECOMMEND:
2. Painted tiles
Most budget method Add a twist to standard ceramic finishes by painting the apron yourself. By using special paints For ceramics, you can transform an inexpensive plain tile if you decorate it with an interesting design. Now imagine how much joy your inner child will get from the process!
Don't know how to draw? Use a stencil. It’s easy to make by printing out a picture you like from the Internet. You can fix the drawn image by applying 1-2 layers of transparent acrylic varnish. If you do everything correctly, you can admire the updated apron for at least two to three years.
3. Photo tile
Photo printing on tiles looks much more interesting than standard decors, not to mention a smooth, monochromatic surface. If the range of photo decors from ready-made collections does not inspire you, consider making custom photo tiles. There are several ways to transfer an image onto a ceramic surface. The most reliable and durable - using decal technology. It will cost more, but will last much longer than an apron with a pattern applied by sublimation.
4. Artificial stone
The relief textured surface of the decorative stone looks very impressive. But practical housewives who love to cook a lot may doubt the practicality of such finishing. Dust and greasy deposits easily settle on the textured surface. You can avoid problems with cleaning if you install a powerful hood and cover the surface of the stone with transparent acrylic varnish.
The optimal solution is to decorate part of the wall behind the stove with a small panel of tempered glass, and decorate the rest of the apron with stone. Another good option— use stone-look ceramic tiles: they have a less porous surface that is easier to keep clean.
5. Lining and wood
Imitation wood looks great in both laconic modern interiors and cozy country-style kitchens. If you want a kitchen with a modern design, take a closer look at MDF wall panels finished with plastic, the structure of which resembles wood not only in appearance, but also in feel. In a “rustic” interior, you can also use lining to finish the apron. The main thing is to treat it with an antifungal solution and cover it with a waterproof protective varnish.
6. Decorative plaster
Walls finished with this material are not much inferior in practicality to aprons made of tiles or glass, but only if you choose the right type of finish and strictly follow the technology of its application. In addition to the popular “Venetian” and “bark beetle”, decorative plasters a lot of variety of options design. For example, for kitchens in the loft style, finishing with concrete-like plaster is ideal, and for country or Provence - a coating under old wall with craquelure.
7. Mirror panel or tile
The mirror surface has the super ability to visually enlarge a small space, giving it volume and depth. The mirror on the apron perfectly reflects light and makes dark kitchen lighter. But there is also an obvious disadvantage - this type of finishing is suitable only for neat people. With such an apron, any mess on the work surface will be doubled, and fingerprints, drops of water and splashes of grease will be evident.
8. Brick or clinker tiles
The textured surface of red brick looks fantastic in combination with the smooth glossy facades of a white, beige or gray kitchen set. Thanks to the contrast of colors and textures, such an apron will add texture and expressiveness to even the most laconic interior. The recommendations are the same as for finishing with artificial stone - cover the surface of the apron with transparent varnish, it will become easier to clean. Another option is to protect brick wall panel made of transparent tempered glass.
9. Wall panel stainless steel
The steel on the apron will fit perfectly into the design of kitchens in loft, minimalism and hi-tech styles and will complement a kitchen set with a modern design. If you don't like the look of aprons made entirely of metal, look at the photo below to see what small ones look like metal panels. Most often they cover part of the wall behind hob(this solution is especially practical for kitchens with gas stoves). The rest of the apron can be decorated with artificial stone, plastic, tiles, glass or painted with moisture-resistant paint.
11. Wallpaper
Wall coverings with eye-catching patterns or naturalistic imitation of wood, stone, fabric, brick are good for creating an apron with original design. In kitchens without upper cabinets In this way you can decorate the wall right up to the ceiling. Transparent will help extend the life of wallpaper strained glass. Optiwhite is best suited - it will cost about a third more than usual, but it does not have the characteristic greenish bottle tint, which can distort the color of the pattern on the wallpaper and ruin the entire impression of the apron.
- WE RECOMMEND:
An apron in the kitchen not only decorates the kitchen, but also protects the work area from dirt and splashes. Using an apron in the kitchen you can change the visual perception of space:
- expand it, fill it with light,
- emphasize the individual character of the interior.
In addition, the variety of design options will allow you to realize any fantasies and create a harmonious environment. All of the above easily explains why the question “how to lay out an apron in the kitchen” does not lose relevance, moreover, it becomes the main one when carrying out finishing work.
The appearance of a kitchen apron should not only please you, but also be combined with furniture and accessories. Depending on the style features of the room, several decor concepts can be distinguished.
NEUTRAL
Catchy accents will add decorativeness to even the most ordinary kitchen backsplash made of ceramic tiles
Some may think that pastel colors are boring and uninteresting, but this is a mistaken opinion. Light colors illusoryly enlarge the space, fill it with warmth and provide a vast field for experiments. Vinyl stickers, original shelves in contrasting shades, bright accessories against a background of monochrome calm will transform the kitchen beyond recognition.
BRIGHT
Bright shades will add positivity, and the glossy surface will turn caring for your apron from an unpleasant task into an easy and quick task.
Rich colors will appeal to lovers of extraordinary and bold solutions. The main rule is that a bright stroke should not be alone - use the same color in details. Dishes, towels, potholders, flower pots and other fun “spots” will make your kitchen truly memorable and original.
GAME OF CONTRASTS
Don't be afraid of contrasting experiments, sometimes they can give amazing results
Finishing the apron in the kitchen in contrasting colors is a favorite design technique that helps to highlight the advantages of the room and masterfully hide the shortcomings. Combinations can be different: from classic to the most unimaginable - everything will depend solely on your preferences. The main thing is that the “warring” samples of the rainbow palette do not irritate or tire.
WHAT MATERIAL TO MAKE A KITCHEN APRON FROM
If we talk about materials for making an apron, then we should highlight the favorites that have earned the favor of the fastidious public. Each of the applicants has a fair number of advantages, which means that you will have to spend a lot of time choosing a worthy candidate.
CERAMIC TILE APRON
Ceramic tiles are the most popular material for backsplashes
Despite the fact that there are plenty of materials for making a kitchen backsplash, tiles are clearly not going to give up their leadership position. This circumstance is due to valuable qualities - resistance to chemical, mechanical influences and temperature changes, ease of care and willingness to please with impeccable appearance more than a dozen years.
If earlier tiles could hardly amaze with their variety of colors and textures, today the situation has changed - choosing tiles to suit any color, size and budget is not difficult. Manufacturers offer sophisticated consumers interesting collections, complemented by mosaics - you can line niches, create ornaments and patterns.
It is important! Do you want to get a three-dimensional composition? The following techniques will help achieve this: synthesis of 2 colors, insertion of horizontal or vertical friezes, alternation of tiles and decor in a checkerboard pattern.
A thin frieze around the perimeter will lengthen the wall; bright colors that “break” the shape are especially good in long and narrow kitchens. Lacquered tiles will add volume, and matte tiles will highlight the glossy facades of the furniture.
KITCHEN APRON MADE OF STONE
A kitchen apron made of stone looks respectable and elegant
Natural or artificial stone will appeal to those who crave luxury. An apron and tabletop made of this material give the interior a solid and rich look. Granite, basalt, and marble are most often used.
Granite characterized by high strength and minimal water absorption, and its exquisite texture provides unique opportunity fill your kitchen with natural splendor.
Marble- a more porous and, accordingly, less moisture-resistant material. However, this minor defect can be easily eliminated with high-quality polishing. Accent inserts that are close to the main material in texture and color will help get rid of monotony.
No less expressive, but much cheaper, an apron made from artificial stone , which is made from coloring pigments, acrylic resin and mineral filler. Lack of pores, low level of moisture absorption, ease of operation and seamless gluing - these are the main “trump cards” of this achievement of modern industry. The category of “artificial stone” includes the currently fashionable lithoceramics, which is light in weight and has geometrically adjusted dimensions. The possibility of gluing with tile adhesive makes the installation process simple and quick. Installing a kitchen apron will not take much time.
MDF KITCHEN APRON
An MDF apron is an economical solution for decorating a work area that even a novice builder can handle.
An MDF splashback is an attractive and cost-effective way to protect a wall and is ideal when paired with a countertop made of a similar material. Some people think that MDF is harmful, but this is not true. Not used in production epoxy resins and phenol, and the binding component is lagnin, a substance formed when wood is heated.
Also, undeniable advantages include the absence of the need to level the wall, the permissibility of installation using liquid nails and kleimers.
STAINLESS STEEL KITCHEN APRON
A stainless steel apron is not only beautiful, but also durable and practical
A stainless steel apron is not used so often, but it also has its merits. It is fireproof, durable, and does not deform due to temperature differences.
It is important! If your choice fell on a stainless steel apron, then it should be combined with glossy plastic, glass or wood.
The surface can be different: shiny, matte, textured, with a pattern, ornament or overlays made of other materials (chipboard, MDF, etc.).
LAYING A KITCHEN APRON
Installing an apron in the kitchen is a simple task that you can do yourself. So, let's prepare the tools.
TOOLS AND MATERIALS REQUIRED
- 2 levels (long and short);
- serrated, rubber and simple spatulas;
- primer roller;
- crosses;
- drill with stirring attachment;
- guide profiles + screws;
- internal and external corners;
- tile cutter, grinder or any other cutting tool;
- sponge;
- primer;
- grout;
- glue;
- and, of course, the most important thing - tiles.
SURFACE PREPARATION
Old wall covering it is necessary to eliminate, if there are irregularities, level the surface with plaster.
It is important! Before starting work, do not forget to remove switches and sockets and insulate the wires.
To improve the adhesion of the glue, we make notches on the wall with a hammer. Then we treat the work area with a deep penetration primer solution. We determine the lower level, draw a horizontal line equal to the length of the future apron.
The surface on which the kitchen apron will be installed must be flat, so it must be prepared first
Install according to the line on the wall metallic profile and check the installation is correct. The profile will help you maintain the desired horizontal line and lay out the tiles flawlessly. We lay the tiles on the floor and decide on the layout.
LAYING TILES ON AN APRON
We start working from the most noticeable corner, from bottom to top. The speed and quality of the process largely depend on laying the first tile, so take this with the utmost responsibility. Dilute the glue according to the instructions. If you have never had to solve the problem of “how to attach an apron in the kitchen” before, then do not rush to prepare a lot of solution.
The glue hardens quickly, it is better to dilute it as needed. Apply glue to the tiles, remove excess with a notched trowel. We lay the tiles on the wall, do not forget to focus on the profile. We exhibit short level horizontally and vertically, check the angle between the adjacent wall and the tile.
Don’t forget to check the horizontal positioning; constant monitoring will help avoid deviations and distortions.
We place the second one next to the first tile and carefully position it. We install a cross between them, check the seam by touch - there should be no differences. We continue to work, checking the horizontal and vertical laying levels from time to time.
The horizontal position can be adjusted with wooden wedges, the vertical position can be adjusted by light pressure or tapping with your hand. So we lay out the first and second rows, insert crosses into the corners.
It is important! After installing 10-15 tiles, it is recommended to clean the seams from glue, because... The dried mass will be much more difficult to remove.
If necessary, cut the tiles with a glass cutter or grinder, round holes cut out using a ballerina. After the tiles are laid, remove the crosses and clean the seams. Then we insert the crosses back.
GROUTING THE JOINTS
The process called “how to make a kitchen backsplash” is almost complete. All that remains is to rub the seams. Prepare the grout mixture strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions. If the grout area is impressive, then spread it in parts.
Before grouting, the seams must be moistened, then the mixture will last better and last longer.
Moisten the seams. Using a rubber spatula, apply grout to the seams with a little force; remove excess immediately. After treating the entire surface, gently wipe the seams with a damp sponge.
Ready. Now you know how to install a backsplash in the kitchen as well as any professional. The next day, you can safely wipe the surface with warm water and admire the resulting beauty with a sense of accomplishment.
Remove the remaining grout mixture with a damp sponge, and the kitchen apron will appear in all its glory
Kitchen decoration should not only be pleasing to the eye, but also be practical. When choosing a material for an apron, you need to pay attention to its size, quality, aesthetic beauty and cost. The distance above the working surface, that is, the countertop and hanging cabinets, should be optimal to protect the wall from hot steam, oily splashes, grease and other contaminants. As a rule, finishing is done over the entire wall, but quite often it is limited to individual inserts, for example, in the sink area or stove.
Peculiarities
When choosing an apron model, consider its size. The average height of this element is from 45 to 60 cm. When choosing certain sizes, you need to build on your own height and type of slab. The point is that the owners gas stoves must maintain a distance between the hood and the hob of 75-80 cm.
When you install an apron in the kitchen, leave a couple of centimeters under the top and bottom sets and the countertop. The visible joint should be hidden using a plinth or treated with silicone or sealant. This is done to ensure that water does not flow behind the floor cabinet, and its wooden walls do not swell, deform, or provoke the formation of mold and mildew.
Each material has its own characteristics, specifications. Thus, experts do not recommend using unglazed ceramic tiles, because they have a porous structure. If you do not want to encounter the accumulation of fat and moisture that are difficult to remove from the surface, pay attention to chipboard, glass, Italian tiles, MDF and plastic, and artificial stone. All other materials will become an excellent barrier against bacteria and their proliferation. With proper care, a kitchen apron will last a long time.
To make regular maintenance easier, try to choose the right, even and smooth structure without seams or joints.
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Varieties and colors
Often a kitchen apron acts as an excellent design accent in the interior. You don’t have to spend incredible amounts of money on boring kitchen facades, super-washable wallpaper, or expensive insulated floors. It is enough to decorate the apron with high-quality materials in an interesting way. color scheme. It will certainly attract the glances of curious guests and will perfectly decorate the overall atmosphere of the kitchen. There is a colossal amount of materials on the market from which you can create a truly artistic masterpiece.
If you do not have enough funds to purchase elite European materials, you can use their cheaper analogues. Similar finish made from MDF, chipboard, plastic, it perfectly imitates wood species, natural stone, creates amazing stained glass windows, the effect of broken colored glass, etc. When designing an apron, it is important to understand what role it will play in the interior of the kitchen. Sometimes it can be a wonderful backdrop for a kitchen set or vice versa. In this area, you can place a volumetric 3D photo print, visually expanding the work space and adding a plot twist to the kitchen interior.
This could be the seashore, a mesmerizing horizon line, floral still lifes, fantasy scenes, animal paintings, or any national pattern (Scandinavian, oriental, Provencal, azulejo, etc.). Universal color for a backsplash, white is still considered. Plastic panels, glass will look great with a set of any color. To prevent them from having a “hospital” boring look, designers advise diluting the snow-white tone with a colored insert from mosaics, ceramic decor, or photo printing. Neutral colors also include ivory, beige, Ivory, milky, creamy.
If you decide on a colored apron, be sure to “support” its palette with other interior details. It is best if it goes tone on tone or pattern on pattern with textile elements of the kitchen: curtains, decorative pillows, as well as wallpaper. The colors of marsala, burgundy, lime, emerald, and ultramarine will look incredibly stylish in the kitchen.
If the key color palette for the bedroom is lilac, then in the kitchen it will be rich purple. Try to use as many natural colors as possible. By the way, all shades of brown, yellow, gray will appear in contrast with black, white, cream, sand, pastel, etc.
Popular finishing materials
One of the most popular materials is ceramic tiles or small-format porcelain tiles. They are affordable in price and quality, but more expensive than the option made from chipboard or MDF. Aprons made of resistant glass and artificial stone are an order of magnitude higher. The latter are mainly used in country cottages, apartments to maintain the prestige of your property.
Tile
Try to choose tiles with a glossy surface for ease of maintenance. Its shiny surface will reflect light, which will visually expand the kitchen area. If you don't mind small square meters, you can use volumetric decors, select relief tile samples, for example, with a 3D effect. For any interior a win-win option the color will turn out to be beige-brown, no matter what style surrounds you (classic, kitsch, vintage or art nouveau).
A special feature of the tile is that it easily imitates other materials: stone, wood, glass. A popular decoration will be a watercolor drawing or patterns with stains. With them, minor dirt and stains are practically invisible. When laying tiles, pay attention to problem areas and seams. Light grout will lose its original color over time. When starting finishing work, it is important to use only high-quality materials with dirt-repellent, moisture-resistant components, such as epoxy grout.
You can also choose rectified tiles, in which the distance between the seams does not exceed 2 mm. In this case, the darkened areas will be practically unnoticeable during operation. Experts advise choosing tiles with a special coating that perfectly withstands aggressive environments. With such material it will not be scary to use any chemicals even with abrasive particles in the composition.
There are a huge number of styling options Italian tiles. You can choose a checkerboard, traditional or offset. You can arrange it diagonally according to the Soviet motif or using the kaleidoscope method (in a variety of colors). If you select ceramic tiles 10 x 10 cm, then when laying you can do without additional trimming. It looks great in small kitchens.
You can reduce the time of finishing work with ceramic tiles if you purchase medium-sized samples, from 30 x 30 cm and above. They can imitate small tiles, have slots and recesses, but they will install several times faster.
Phototile
An apron made with photo tiles looks incredibly fashionable. It will become a unique decoration for the kitchen, adding individuality and luxury to any interior. You can depict absolutely any print, pattern or design above the hob, even your family photo. This decoration will certainly inspire you to cook delicious, appetizing dishes for your beloved household members.
Glass
If you are a fighter for quality, strength and longevity, take a look at models made of tempered glass. It can be decorated at any time with a pattern, for example, made from acrylic. The advantages of this finish are resistance to stains, ease of use, and long service life.
The product “gets along” well with the hob, tolerates any temperature changes, and does not allow moisture to pass through. You can decorate glass with drawings of large flowers, images of birds, animals, vintage items, fruits or vegetables, and sweets.
The shine of glass will give the kitchen a neat appearance in any light. It is believed that glass, as well as laminate models, is the most noble type of finishing; it always looks laconic, expensive, and prestigious. When mounting it is better to use fasteners. You will not scratch the furniture or facades, so repair and finishing work can be carried out at any stage of construction. Just as popular will be a mirrored apron, which corrects all the imperfections in the geometry of your kitchen.
Mosaic
The exquisite design of a kitchen apron using mosaics is trendy and consists of contrasting shades and non-trivial colors. Mosaic will add a special charm to the kitchen, tenderness and elegance. When installing such a structure, glue and grout are used, which takes most of the time to “remove” the seams. It is also necessary to observe the order when laying the mosaic.
Plastic
In the absence of sufficient funds, you can resort to an apron made from natural stone, Italian fresco, to hypoallergenic plastic of the economy class category. There are several options for this kitchen decoration:
made of plastic based on MDF, chipboard or fiberboard;
usage decorative plastic hot pressing;
creating stunning visualizations “like wood”, stone and other materials;
using plastic made from polycarbonate.
All models are easy to install and care for, extending their service life every year. You can also consider a budget option made of chipboard and plastic. This design is easy to make with your own hands and can be replaced if necessary. Quite often the material is colorless and transparent. You can put stylish wallpaper under it, create a photo print.
This model exhibits excellent resistance to moisture and high temperatures. Would you like to receive an apron? affordable price without seams or joints - consider the chipboard system!
Artificial stone
One of the most aesthetically attractive ideas will be the use of artificial stone. In this case, it is better that the tabletop is made of the same material. Despite its high cost, the finishing is very popular among wealthy owners of cottages, penthouses, and townhouses.
Quality work required during installation experienced craftsmen, which will create the perfect picture of the interior. Careful handling of this surface guarantees a long service life. The product perfectly withstands frequent cleaning, including wet cleaning.
Design styles
For loft style design tiles will do“hog” or brick model. She has rectangular shape and beveled edges, which makes it resemble a brick. This finish will look great in classic and modern interior. It is possible to choose both a standard version in size 10 x 20 cm, and large format up to 15 x 45 cm.
As a rule, the “hog” is produced in solid color, with a smooth glossy surface. The colors are predominantly neutral and calm. Kitchen apron collections are usually diluted with interesting photo printing, drawings of fruits, berries, sweets and other ideas on culinary topics.
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For kitsch and eclectic styles, mosaic products are suitable. They give in wooden house an atmosphere of well-being, comfort, joy. For luxury styles Baroque, avant-garde, Romanesque, Mediterranean wall panels are suitable, for which it is important to provide space and symmetry. For the Victorian style, pastoral still lifes and landscapes of famous cities are suitable ( Ancient Greece, Venice, Florence, etc.). Tiles that imitate cladding can be complemented with textured patterns, spectacular coatings, and stylized antique patterns.