Do you make all of your tiles?

I begin with a plain Italian red quarry tile and each tile is individually hand painted by me using a wax resist method.  I use a ceramic glaze and all of the tiles are kiln fired to approximately 1800 degrees. 

How do you make your tiles?

As I said, I begin with an Italian red quarry tile.  I draw on the outline of the design with wax and then fill in the outline with ceramic glaze.  I apply the glaze quite thick and the wax provides a barrier so the glaze does not run together.  After painting, the glaze has to fully dry prior to firing (approx. 2 days).  I then fire the tiles, it is a little over 24 hours from the time the tiles enter the kiln until the time they are cool enough to remove from the kiln.  From there I either put them into frames for addresses or murals, back them with cork for use as a trivet, or place them directly into a tile installation. 

What can you use your tiles for?

My tiles can be used for any regular tile application or whatever application you might need a decorative tile for.  Common uses are for backsplashes, table tops, address tiles, trivets, wall or floor murals, clocks, business or name tiles, garden signs, as well as many other uses.  I have made tiles for installation right into a patio surface and tiles to mark a memorial spot for a loved one.  It is really whatever you can think up….

Are the tiles durable?

The tiles are kiln fired which makes the finish extremely durable.  They will not fade, peel, or discolor.  They are frost proof and resistant to heat.  You can set a pan right out of the oven on them with no problem.  The colors will stay vibrant forever.

Do you do custom work?

I can put almost any design on tile provided it is not licensed or trademarked.  I can work from photos or put your company’s logo on a tile.  I can work with colors to match as close as possible and can make whatever size you need as well. 

Where do you get your ideas?

I get a lot of my ideas from my customers.  Many of my accent tiles are created because someone asks for it, I created it and then it becomes part of my design inventory.  Other than that I look for inspiration around me.  I am from a coastal area so many of my designs reflect that. 

Do you have a store?

No, I work from home and only display my work at art shows around the Southeast and in a few galleries.