Lauren HollandBy Lauren Holland

Updated November 2026

A herringbone pattern kitchen backsplash uses rectangular tiles set at 90-degree angles so each row interlocks with the next, creating a zigzag texture. This guide walks through choosing tile size, measuring and marking a centered layout, and setting the pattern so the cuts land where they won’t draw the eye. Done carefully, it reads as a deliberate, high-impact feature rather than a busy afterthought.

Choose the Right Tile Size and Material

Most herringbone layouts use tiles with a length-to-width ratio of about 4:1 or 5:1, such as 2 x 8 inches or 3 x 12 inches. Longer tiles make the zigzag bolder and the pattern reads from across the room, while smaller tiles give a tighter, more traditional texture that suits short backsplash runs. Ceramic and porcelain are the usual choices for behind a range, and natural stone or marble works well on the wall behind a sink. Check that the tile you pick is rated for wall use and, if you plan to run it near the cooktop, that the grout and adhesive are rated for the heat.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Backsplash Tiles for Kitchen Walls in 2026.

Plan the Layout Before You Set Any Tile

Herringbone is unforgiving of uneven starting lines, so measure first. Find the center of the backsplash wall, mark a vertical centerline, and check that it sits over the range or sink as the focal point. Then dry-lay a row of tiles on the floor to confirm the zigzag will look balanced at both edges.

  1. Measure the wall width and height between countertop and upper cabinets, or the bottom of the hood.
  2. Mark a level baseline at the countertop, then mark the vertical centerline.
  3. Work out how many full tiles fit per row on each side of center. Aim for cuts of at least half a tile at the edges.
  4. Dry-lay a sample section on the floor using the same tile orientation you’ll use on the wall.

Set the Pattern in Sections

Start at the centerline and work outward, one row at a time. Each tile should sit perpendicular to the one beside it, with the tip of one tile meeting the middle of the next. Use a leveling system and a fresh tile spacer for every joint, because small errors compound quickly across a zigzag. Spread thinset with a notched trowel sized for your tile, and set tiles in small sections so the adhesive doesn’t skin over before you place them. Check alignment with a long level every few rows.

Handle the Edges and Cuts

Cut edge tiles last, after the main field is set and the thinset has cured enough to hold. Use a wet saw for clean straight cuts and a diamond hole saw or wet polisher for outlets and switches. Where a cut tile meets a corner, consider a bullnose or a trim piece to give a finished edge.

Grout, Seal and Protect the Finish

Allow the thinset to cure as the manufacturer specifies before grouting. Use grout in a color that either matches the tile closely or contrasts clearly; mid-tone grout tends to hide minor spacing variations best. Wipe the tile surface promptly, then seal natural stone and unglazed tile before the backsplash sees daily cooking spatter.

  • A long spirit level and laser level help keep the zigzag rows straight across a wide wall. View on Amazon
  • A notched trowel matched to your tile size controls adhesive coverage and prevents voids under each piece. View on Amazon
  • Tile spacers keep the joints consistent so the herringbone rows stay true from center to edge. View on Amazon

Common Mistakes

  • Starting at a wall edge instead of the centerline, which leaves a sliver tile in the middle of the focal area.
  • Skipping the dry layout, then discovering the cut tiles at the corners are too narrow.
  • Using uneven joint spacing, which makes the zigzag look wavy under good light.
  • Choosing tile too small for a bold statement, or too large for a tight wall where the pattern gets lost.

For more layout options, see Backsplash Patterns for the Kitchen: 8 Layouts and How to Choose and Backsplash Ideas for Kitchen: 9 Designs, Materials and Layout Rules. If you’re weighing tile against other materials, Kitchen Backsplash Guide: Tile, Stone and Easy Care compares care needs side by side.

FAQ

Is a herringbone pattern kitchen backsplash hard to install?

It takes more layout planning than a straight-set tile, but the setting process is similar. Careful centering and a dry run on the floor are what make the difference between a clean result and a crooked one.

What tile size works best for a herringbone backsplash?

Rectangular tiles with a 4:1 or 5:1 ratio, such as 2 x 8 or 3 x 12 inches, are the most common choice. Larger tiles give a bolder zigzag, while smaller ones create a finer texture.

Should I hire a professional for a herringbone backsplash?

If the wall is out of level or the layout is complicated around outlets and corners, a professional tile setter can save time and rework. Consult a qualified installer for structural, electrical or moisture concerns behind the wall.

Conclusion

A herringbone pattern kitchen backsplash rewards careful planning more than fast installation. Measure and center the layout, set the rows in small sections, and seal the finished surface. Take the time at the start and the zigzag will look deliberate for years.

Ready to choose one?

Lauren Holland

About Lauren Holland

Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our kitchen design & remodeling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.