This DIY Gingham Backsplash Is Peak Nancy Meyers—Here's How to Get the Look

Published on July 12, 2025

We've loved all forms of plaid patterns—checkered, tartan, gingham—for decades now (hello BHG Red Plaid Cookbook!), so we couldn't be more excited that gingham print is quickly becoming a favorite pattern in home design. Gaining popularity in the '90s, it's is closely tied to recent home trends that tap into nostalgic styles, like Nancy Meyers and cottagecore aesthetics.

One of the best parts about gingham is its versatility. Upholstery, area rugs, and curtains are only a few of the ways designers are incorporating the print into home decor—but one social media influencer took the gingham trend one step further and used it to cover the front of her counter using mosaic tiles. With this timeless and trendy project, you can easily recreate the look at home, without needing a carpenter or spending your entire budget.

DIY Gingham Tile Design

In a TikTok video with over 850,000 views, creator Leigha Stepp shared the process of how she created a DIY gingham tile pattern to cover the front of a counter in her boutique. According to the video, she'd wanted to add a blue gingham tile to the space, but all of the tile options online were too expensive. Instead of splurging on pre-patterned tiles, she decided to make the design herself.

How to Make Your Own Gingham Pattern

The signature gingham look is created by using the same size squares in three different colors (often one statement color, a slightly more subtle shade of the same color, and white) in a repeating, checkered pattern. For her design, Stepp used square ceramic tiles in dark blue, light blue, and cream.

She then laid out the tiles in a gingham pattern. To recreate at home, lay a row of tiles alternating between the two lightest shades. For the second row, alternate between the two darkest shades, making sure the darkest color never aligns with the lightest. Continue creating rows until your space is filled.

After the pattern was laid, Stepp began attaching the tiles to the counter, starting at the bottom and working her way up. To streamline the process, she used adhesive tile mats instead of mortar. To finish off the counter, Stepp used a white grout to fill in any gaps and make the tiles look custom-built.

Gingham Tile Inspiration

Because gingham is so popular and versatile, you can easily recreate the tiled look in multiple different spaces. While Stepp covered the front of a counter with the tiles, you can choose to use a gingham tile for your kitchen backsplash to create a cozy, nostalgic feeling. For a pop of pattern, use the gingham pattern in a walk-in shower or in a shower niche. In the living room, tile the front of a fireplace. The pattern can also be used on larger scales for floors or entire walls.