How to Paint Tumbled Marble Tiles

Ryan Lawrence

While many people enjoy the rustic look of tumbled marble tile, this type of tile is actually a cheap version of the real thing. Because tumbled marble tile is porous, it can tarnish and stain far easier than expensive marble. Fortunately, this same porous quality makes it fairly easy to paint. But if you plant to paint tumbled marble tile, you'll need to condition the surface somewhat to get the paint to adhere.

  1. Tape over any areas you do not want painted. Protect larger areas such as flooring and countertops with plastic drop cloths.

  2. Abrade the tiles so the paint will adhere by gently sanding them with 120-grit sandpaper. Wipe down the surface with a tack cloth to remove all sanding dust.

  3. Apply primer to the tumbled marble tiles with a 4-inch paint brush. Allow the surface to dry for two hours. Wash the paint brush with warm water.

  4. Brush on acrylic latex paint in the same manner as you applied the primer. Allow the surface to dry for two hours. Apply another coat if necessary.