We had the same dilemma. When I ordered bullnose tiles, I thought I was clear with the designer in ordering bullnose on the short side. When I got them, the bullnose was on the long side. I came to learn that this company does not make bullnose on the short side. So, the suggestion was to either not use bullnose at all or cut the tiles long ways and use them that way. Because our glass liner is not bullnose, if we made it go to the end, it would have not matched the field tile bullnose ends so we did it a bit differently. I would have preferred the liner to go to the end though. I felt that had we not used a bullnose end, it wouldn't have looked finished, IMO. Our splash is not grouted yet as you can see and paint touchups need to be done. Of course, we'll be using a narrow wall plate cover since the switch is very close to the edge. When our door curtain is pulled over in it's regular position, the edge is covered anyway, not that it looks bad showing. We still have light rail molding to install to the cabinets as well.

>hould I make the mural smaller (20 x 16) and use a wider border/frame or go larger (24 x 18) with the mural and use a thinner border/frame? That depends. Was there a subtle color in the image you could use for the border? I don't think I'd like it with a significant color like purple or green, but if there was a shaded light tone you could get in the mini subways, I'd do the deeper border. Actually, personally, I'd do a smaller image and a deeper border (of some other sort, like double frame effect in your picture but using a plain time in between instead of the leaves if you don't like them) in any case. I don't like the wine bottles, myself--they look too much like a photo transfer rather than a hand painted effect.

With a granite backsplash, you'll still have a seam so it defeats the purpose stated by that granite guy. Only time I see tile over a 3" granite backsplash is when they are done at different times (change in homeowners or you decide to add tile in the future). Most people getting new counters will just tile from the counter up.

didn't have time to read all the answers. I have no backsplash and have never regretted it...been over 6 yrs. It is painted with BM matte...which has ceramic in it. It is as beautiful now as it was when first painted. I love the fact that I can showcase other things ...art etc in my kitchen and no competition. Also if I ever want to change it is as quick as a paint brush...expense is minimal..paint only ! All in all I think it is serene as you point out . Here is one pick. Since I have a lot of high heat cooking in my kitchen..built in deep fat fryer as well as gas cook top I can definitely speak to the longevity of paint only. c ( more at this album )