How to Paint Terra Cotta Tile

Terra cotta tiles can be handmade and hand-painted using the right materials.

Terra cotta tiles have been used for centuries to cover floors, decorate tabletops and accent buildings. Although they can be painted in very intricate designs and patterns, even the smallest child can successfully paint and customize their own terra cotta tile. To make and paint a beautiful and unique terra cotta tile, it is important to adhere to a set of guidelines that will ensure that the tile will turn out as you have envisioned.

Things You'll Need

• 1 lb. terra cotta clay
• Rolling pin
• Clay knife
• Ruler
• Ceramics glaze
• Paintbrushes
• Kiln

Instructions

1. Knead 1 lb. of terra cotta clay for five minutes to remove trapped air pockets.

2. Roll out the clay with a rolling pin.

3. Measure out and cut a 4 inch square from the clay using a ruler and a clay knife. Make sure that the clay is about 1/4 inch in thickness.

4. Discard the excess clay, and place the square in front of you.

5. Paint onto the clay using ceramics glaze. You can paint any design or pattern that you prefer. Some common patterns include painting a border around the sides of the tile, or painting squuares or dots over the entire surface. For best results, select a silica-based ceramics glaze that contains metal oxides that will create a shine on the surface of the terra cotta tile.

6. Allow the clay to air dry completely.

7. Fire the painted terra cotta clay tile in a kiln before using it in your project or displaying it.

References

• Princeton OL: Clay Tile Lesson Plan
• NM Clay: How to Paint Tile