How to Fish Scale Your Home (the Moroccan Tile Way)

Mermaid tile, scallop tile, wave tile, sea tile, fish tile.... These are just some of the many names for this signature shape we call Moroccan Fish Scale Tile. There’s a reason for these scallop-shaped Moroccan mosaic tiles’ popularity: Emulating the waves of the ocean, they have the magical ability to transport you to your favorite seaside setting, evoking feelings of calm, peace, and joy. Looking to bring Moroccan Fish Scale Tile into your own home? Here are some tips to do it the right way with Mercury Mosaics. 

1. Small, Medium or Large?

First, determine what size shape is best for your space. At Mercury Mosaics, we offer three different sizes of Moroccan Fish Scale tiles: Small, medium and large. In general, the size of your space should inform the size of the tile you pick. For larger spaces like a floor or statement wall, we suggest using the larger tile option. If you’re working with a space that’s under two square feet or less, smaller tile will make a larger impact. Here's what we recommend but anything possible in the right setting:

Large Moroccan Fish Scales
Use for: Spaces over 20 ft.
Project ideas: Floors, shower walls, backsplashes

Medium Moroccan Fish Scales
Use for: Spaces over 5 ft. & under 20 ft.
Project ideas: Small kitchens, fireplaces, accent walls, stove splashes

Small Moroccan Fish Scales
Use for: Spaces under 5 ft.
Project ideas: Niches, shower floors, table tops or benches, accent pieces

Photography by @Eichlerpalms, Large Moroccan Fish Scales - 244 Blue Green, 1065 Mint Julep, 32 Canton Jade, 1016 Costa Rica.
Photography by @michellecgage, Medium Moroccan Fish Scales - 45W My Blue Heaven, 12W Blue Bell, 1064 Baby Blue, 11 Deco White.
Photography by @Whitv, Small Moroccan Fish Scales - 1064 Baby Blue, 45W My Blue Heaven, 43 Robins Egg.

2. Consider Grout

You’ll also want to consider grout lines and color when picking a size. While gorgeous, using small Moroccan Fish Scales in a larger space can be too busy for some, unless you pick the right grout color. Choosing a grout color that’s similar to the tile color makes the grout lines less prominent, creating a space that looks larger.  

Medium Moroccan Fish Scales - 12R Blue Bell, Large Moroccan Fish Scales - 12R Blue Bell.

3. Tile Orientation 

Once you know the size and grout you’d like, you’ll order the tile in sheets that are mesh-mounted. This makes installation a lot easier. Another design option is tile orientation. The most traditional orientation for Moroccan Fish Scale tile is to place the tiles with the tip going upwards, with all the tiles facing the same upwards direction. This specific orientation tends to make the space look larger. 

There are other orientation options, too, like the “wave” pattern. This is a combination of different orientations that creates a rippled appearance. The “Wave” is a gorgeous option that looks best with our Large or Medium Moroccan Fish Scale tile. 

Photography by Bari J Medium Moroccan Fish Scales - 47 Vermont Pine, 1036W Bluegrass, 75 Emerald, 101 Lagoon, 1017E Sea Mist, 1065 Mint Julep.
Photography by Elizabeth Bolognino Medium Moroccan Fish Scales - Denim Blend
Large Moroccan Fish Scales in Wave - 12 Blue Bell, 32 Canton Jade, 1065 Mint Julep

4. Color and Finish

Lastly, you’ll want to pick a color and finish. It’s no surprise, but blue-green shades tend to be a favorite with the Moroccan fish scale tile since it resembles lagoons, lakes and oceans. We’ve found that brighter colors with a glossy finish tend to open up a space because the glossy finish reflects light. Darker colors and a matte finish will conversely absorb the light, making your room feel cozier. 

Large Moroccan Fish Scales - 713 Peacock Green, 28 Everglades, 1016 Costa Rica, 958 Rainforest. 
Photography by @bornimagery, Medium Moroccan Fish Scales - 1015E Caribbean Blue
Medium Moroccan Fish Scales - 65W Amber.

Whether you’re looking to add Moroccan fish scale tile to your bathroom or kitchen backsplash we’re here to help you along the way. Reach out to us with your design vision, and we’ll get the kiln fired up and ready to go.

Order tile samples to see, touch, and fall in love with our handmade tiles in person. We would also love to hear what inspires you! Tell us more about your future project and get the ball rolling. 

The post How to Fish Scale Your Home (the Moroccan Tile Way) appeared first on Artisan Tile Company: Handmade Ceramic Tiles by Mercury Mosaics.