How to Make Symmetrical Tiles

Create symmetrical handmade tiles using basic craft supplies.

Custom symmetrical tiles can look both beautiful and decorative, but can cost a lot of money if you buy them from a professional artist. One option is to make the symmetrical tiles yourself using a few basic and inexpensive materials purchased from any arts and crafts supply store. Making your own tiles will also allow you to customize the appearance of the tiles by using ceramics glazes to match the rest of your home décor.

Things You'll Need

• Ceramic clay
• Rolling pin
• Carpenter's square
• Pointer tool
• Clay knife
• Ceramics glaze
• Paintbrush
• Kiln

Instructions

1. Knead 1 lb. of ceramic clay for five minutes to remove any trapped air bubbles.

2. Roll out the kneaded clay — using a rolling pin — into a slab that is 1/2 inch thick.

3. Place a carpenter's square onto the top of the clay slab, and — using a pointer tool — score a line to mark out a tile that measures exactly 6 inches square.

4. Cut out the symmetrical tile using a clay knife. Smooth the edges of the tile with your finger. Set the tile aside.

5. Repeat this process to cut out as many symmetrical tiles as you prefer for your project. Allow the tiles to air-dry for 12 to 18 hours.

6. Decorate the front of the tiles using colorful ceramics glaze. Allow the tiles to dry for an additional eight to 12 hours.

7. Bake the tiles in a kiln set to medium heat for six hours. Allow the tiles to cool completely for three hours before handling them.

Tips & Warnings

• You may locate a kiln at any university or art center that offers ceramics courses.

• Touching the clay tiles before they have cooled completely could result in serious burns.

References

• Ceramic Arts Daily: Making Ceramic Tile