I haven't tried it, but I don't see why not....do you have any of the listello pieces left over to play with? You may need to put on an epoxy-based primer first...or maybe an oil based paint will be sticky enough. Talk to the folks at the paint store and they will be able to help you. You just need to be careful about the grout when you paint so take your time and be neat so you paint only the tile.

Not sure how she did it but I remember a friend painted or stenciled iris on some of her backsplash tiles.

I noticed a tile paint on Rustoleum's site.

I do remember seeing pictures of stenciled tiles in a tub surround once.

I would play with a couple of options and see if they work. One of the go to's for me is colored waterproof pens. There are patio paints in the craft stores and spray paints for tile. If you use the spray paint, just spray it in a small container and you will have enough to brush on.

I don't know how any of these would hold up faced with water on a daily basis; The issue would be the finish on tile. Perhaps use an acid etch to remove just the area you are working on.

I'm the type that would try a bunch of stuff, just to see if it could be done. One idea would be to use a thin mastic over the area and then a paint. I used this on the marble inset on my fireplace and then painted. Not a crack or color issue. It looks like adobe though, which isn't what you are after. But perhaps the thin coat would work with a sponge brush.

Could you just use a grout saw, chisel out listello and replace them with something else?

I am so pleased to see all of your comments, and to hear that it might be doable. I now have lots of avenues to pursue. Palimpsest, I forgot to include that there are about 5 accent tiles in addition to the listello that have the same accent rust flower. I can't cut out those tiles. If painting does not work, I could cut out the listello and find a matching size replacement. Luckily, I have one sample listello piece that I can experiment with.

Thanks all!

Carol

OntarioMom,

I looked this up when I first saw your post this AM, and what I saw advised against it. I have linked a DIY column below. All that I read this AM said that it wouldn't last if exposed to water.

I hate to burst your bubble, but you may want to read this, too.

Here is a link that might be useful: Painting Over Shower Tile

Thanks my3dogs for that link. I will proceed with caution, and test repeatedly with my tester piece of listello.

Carol

I've looked into this, too, because I have some tiles that I've been itching to paint.
The link below may help, even though it's for a kitchen.
Here's another link:
http://midcenturymodernlove.com/2011/08/15/yes-virginia%E2%80%A6you-really-can-paint-a-tile-countertop/

The other option may be to use these adhesive tile decals.
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/removable-tile-decals-138735

Here is a link that might be useful: painting tile

They claim that you can use these tile stix in the shower, so I wonder if you could cut them to cover your listellos.

Here is a link that might be useful: stix

This post was edited by nosoccermom on Wed, May 15, 13 at 10:54

nosoccermom, I appreciate you sharing your research with me! Thanks!

Carol

Please share what happens when you paint your tile. I'm dying to find out. Of course, if I wait long enough, my tiles may be the "in" thing again.

I painted my avocado green tile in one house tub surround with marine paint and a special primer for mirror. It lasted about 2 years before it started to peel at the bottom. However I will say I have learned more about prepping a surface since then and wonder if I still had residue on the tiles before I started. The top tiles not at tubs edge were fine. Good luck with your project.

I wouldn't worry about it. Paint with whatever you come up with and when it wears off, do it again. No problem.

I wouldn't worry about it. Paint with whatever you come up with and when it wears off, do it again. No problem.