How To Paint Your Stone Fireplace

Itching to paint your stone, but don't know where to begin? You've come to the right place because I tackled our fireplace as one of my first big DIYs back in 2019 and have loved it ever since with zero regrets. Here's my step by step tips + supplies so you can achieve this too .

*This post contains affiliate links and I receive a small commission

Before we jump right in, here are some things to note about my fireplace. Supplies are based off this and should be adjusted according to your measurements.

• 12 feet tall x 8 feet wide

• My stone did not have moss, but I hear that if yours does, you should first remove with a wire brush while wearing a mask. Make sure to open any doors or windows that are close by to help with ventilation.

Instructions:

*Before starting, go ahead and book a massage for afterwards. You'll thank me later.

1. Lay drop cloths on the floor and cover anything nearby that you want to protect.

2. Mix TSP (trisodium phosphate) cleaner in a bucket according to instructions. I mixed 16 oz. with 2 gallons of water to cover my large fireplace. Use sponge and gloves to apply to stone. Let it dry. If you get any on your wood floors, remove immediately. **TSP is harmful and toxic if used incorrectly so please review instructions from the manufacturer and wear eye protection and gloves.

3. Apply primer to stone with roller and paint brushes. This was the hardest and most tedious part to me, but it's the most critical. I applied several coats to make sure the stone didn't leach through the paint since stone is very porous. The more you apply, the easier it will be to paint.

4. Don't give up! Almost there. If you're also painting your fireplace white, you will be tempted to stop at this point because the primer is a similar color to the paint, but keep going because you won't regret it.

5. Apply paint with roller and paint brushes. If you applied enough primer, this will go quickly. Time-saver tip: don't worry about washing your rollers or brushes after primer because they can mix. Old paint brushes are recommended. If you buy new, don't spend a lot because the stone will ruin them.

6. Apply white caulk to any holes in your masonry. My fireplace was built in the 70's, so I had a lot of holes to cover up from settling. The white caulk blends perfectly with the Benjamin Moore OC-117 Simply White paint.

7. Bravo! You did it! Now go enjoy that massage, and maybe a bottle of wine too. You just conquered your fireplace and saved a ton of money!

Supplies:

• (1) bottle TSP

• (1) sponge

• (1) pair of rubber gloves

• (1) large bucket

• (2) gallons Kilz primer

• (1) gallon paint - (I used Benjamin Moore Simply White OC-117 Eggshell)

• White caulk

• Drop cloth(s)

• Painter's tape

• Roller brush (for rough surfaces)

• Roller brush extension pole (if your fireplace is tall like mine)

• (1) small paint brush for trim/edges

• LOTS of patience

Here's a quick time-lapse video for reference and scale!

Voila! I will forever love the contrast of a white fireplace with a reclaimed wood mantel and pretty pop of art.