Of all the elements in your kitchen, the backsplash is probably the area where you can best express your personal style and exercise your DIY muscle. There are so many unique and customizable options available these days that you’re bound to find multiple choices you love. Here are just a few of those options and why you should consider using them to customize your kitchen backsplash.

Subway Tiles

Subway tiles have become insanely popular over the last few years thanks to their low cost, uniformity, and minimalistic design. Because they’re so versatile, they blend with many different design schemes, including both the popular industrial and farmhouse chic looks. Subway tiles have simple, clean lines, making them extremely easy to work with. There’s no need to match up any patterns or colors. Just decide on the layout you like and go!

Wallpaper

For a super easy DIY project, and one that can be switched out as often as you like, try a wallpaper covering. The design options are nearly endless! Go with a faux tile or brick print to create the illusion of real tiles, or opt for a pretty floral pattern, an art deco design, or a nautical theme. There are even multiple finishes to choose from, including traditional paper, woven materials, and raised designs.

Vinyl Tile Decals

Vinyl tiles have come a long way and offer another not-so-permanent solution for your backsplash. This is the perfect way for renters, for example, to personalize the kitchen and cover those outdated tiles that are in dire need of attention. Just stick the self-adhesive panels right over old tiles. Tile decals are made of waterproof vinyl that comes in larger panels, often segmented into smaller tiles. With gorgeous designs that even include faux grout, these vinyl tiles easily look like the real thing.

Artificial Stone

If you love the look of natural stone but hate the price tag and amount of work it takes to install, you might want to look into artificial stone. Natural stone is far from DIY-friendly, but a manufactured veneer stone can make for the perfect backsplash material. Manufactured stone is made from a slurry of Portland cement, aggregates, and iron oxides that are baked in molds. The cement makes the mixture more stable, and the iron oxide gives the stone its pigment. Since it’s porous and lightweight, it’s far easier to work with than natural stone.

Wood Laminate

For a truly easy, simple yet charming backsplash, look no further than the flooring department. Nope, that’s not a typo! Wood laminate flooring can be the perfect option if you’re going for a rustic or natural look in your kitchen. Sourcing reclaimed wood or buying wood planks can get expensive and time-consuming. Try inexpensive laminate flooring instead for an equally pretty and easily cleaned alternative. If you want to go even cheaper, look for vinyl planks that look like wood laminate.

Tin Tiles

Metal backsplash tiles give an awesome industrial feel and are perfect for the minimalist look, but they can be expensive and take just as much time to install as traditional tile. For a similar feel, go with tin tiles. There are tons of styles and designs of tin tiles available. Using just a pair of tin snips and some construction adhesive, you can give your kitchen an highly customized touch.

These are just a few of the many cool options for kitchen backsplashes available right now. With a little time, planning, and creativity, you can make your backsplash the centerpiece of your kitchen.