How to Cut Terra Cotta

Terra cotta can be a beautiful decorative feature.

Terra cotta is earthenware ceramic that has a distinctive red color. Most commonly used in ceramic tiles and pots, terra cotta adds a decorative touch to any building, garden or craft project. Like any ceramic, terra cotta is fragile. If formed properly, terra cotta can be cut or trimmed without cracking or chipping. When cutting terra cotta, follow these instructions to ensure it doesn't break.

Things You'll Need

• Terra cotta piece
• Bucket
• Water
• Towel
• Pencil or marking pen
• Ruler
• Tile cutter or fine-toothed hacksaw

Instructions

1. Submerge the terra cotta you're cutting in a bucket of water. Remove it from the water after one hour. Pat the terra cotta so its surface is dry.

2. Measure where the terra cotta piece should be cut, using a ruler. Mark this information with a pencil or marking pen on the piece's underside.

3. Ensure the terra cotta's underside is facing up. If the ceramic piece is flat, cut it using a tile cutter. If the ceramic piece isn't flat or you don't have a tile cutter, cut it with a fine-toothed hacksaw. Cut slowly so the tile doesn't chip.

References

• "The Complete Backyard Book"; Murdoch Books; 1996