Shaped, glazed and fired individually or in small batches, handmade tiles are more than just tiles. They’re an expression of creativity and a burst of joy for your home or business whereas machine-made tiles are produced in large quantities with tight tolerances and a goal of uniformity.
From artisanal craftsmanship to personal customization, discover how handmade tiles break free from the mundane and can elevate interior design.
What makes Handmade Tile Worth It?
Handmade tiles are a testament to artisanal craftsmanship, where skilled artisans use their hands and expertise to create unique pieces. This personal touch imparts a sense of authenticity and individuality to each tile, making them more than just functional elements but pieces of art in their own right. We love telling our clients that each tile tells a story. From the very first moment it's hand cut from a slab of Minnesota clay to the moment it's shipped to your door, this single tile is likely touched by nine pairs of human hands working towards the same purpose: to redefine your expectations of what tile is and how it can transform a space.
We'd love to invite you to take a look at hand-cut, hand-glazed our process and learn about our story.
Distinctive Designs and Customizations
Unlike machine-made tiles that often repeat the same pattern, handmade tiles offer an array of distinctive designs and variations. Creativity is unleashed, resulting in tiles that can be customized to suit specific preferences, allowing homeowners and designers to create truly one-of-a-kind spaces.
Below is the perfect example of tile customization on the waterfront of Jersey City, the luxury apartments of Vantage offer sophisticated and vibrant living. Located in their first floor lobby is the gorgeous nature-inspired tiled mural. We loved working with the project designers to create the perfect ombre pattern of greens and blues inspired by the nearby waterfront of Liberty State Park. This custom mosaic was mesh mounted on easy-to-install-sheets and sent off to Jersey City with an assembly map to ensure a smooth installation.
Have a custom design in mind but can't quite put your finger on it? Our expert tile designers are here to help! Schedule a virtual or in-person design consultation
3”x3” Subway Tile
Interior Design - Vantage Collection
Our designers work closely with clients to create bespoke designs, colors, and sizes that perfectly align with the vision for a particular space. This level of personalization is a luxury that machine-made tiles often cannot provide. For example, we had the pleasure to work with Gregory Zamfotis who started the chain of Gregorys Coffee shops. Gregorys Coffee is a specialty coffee, lifestyle and wellness brand based in Manhattan, New York. With a strong focus on quality, innovative products and world class service, they see coffee differently. Not unlike their approach to coffee, Gregory saw that our artisan tile was anything but regular and thus became the backdrop of a unique experience for their “Gregulars”. Working one-on-one with Gregory, a custom blend of colors was dreamt up to create an extension of the iconic brand for multiple of his shops.
Have a design or palette in mind but not sure where to start? Gather some inspiration from our Custom Tile Gallery.
Front of Bar: Medium Diamonds - Satin Black, Black, Dandelion
Back of Bar: Large Diamonds - Deco White, Marshmallow, Satin Black, Dandelion
Photography from Gregorys Coffee
Artful Sustainability
Handmade tile production is often more environmentally sustainable than mass-produced alternatives. We use locally sourced materials and traditional firing methods that reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and energy-intensive manufacturing processes. Plus, we've been on a mission to make the old, new again with our revival tile initiative. We've been creating one-of-a-kind, artfully sustainable Wall Art and curating gorgeous batches of Overstock Tile ready to ship. Plus, Mosaic Candy Shop, our new sister brand, has entered the sustainability chat! These DIY mosaic kits made from our "reject" tile are now available to scratch your creative itch at home.
Longevity and Durability
Our handmade tiles are crafted with a commitment to quality and durability. The attention to detail in their creation often results in tiles that can withstand the test of time, both in terms of physical wear and changing design trends. In our specific manufacturing process, each tile is heated up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit over an eight-hour period. All that heat creates great strength for a timeless product. Plus they are resistant to color fading and are easy to clean!
Small Hexagons
Photography by Chelsie Lopez Production
Installation by Kinetic Design Build
In the age of mass production, handmade tiles stand out as ceramic beacons of craftsmanship and individuality. The allure of these tiles lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in the stories they tell and the connection they forge between artisans and homeowners, architects, or designers. As you embark on your project, consider the timeless beauty and authenticity that handmade tiles bring to the table.
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 The Artistry of Handmade Tiles: A Timeless Craft That Surpasses Machine-Made Alternatives appeared first on Artisan Tile Company: Handmade Ceramic Tiles by Mercury Mosaics.
Are handmade ceramic tiles more durable than machine-made?
Not all machine-made tiles are equal, but the quality of Mercury Mosaics tile cannot be mass replicated. Our tile is fired at up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit for an eight-hour period and touched by at least nine pairs of hands. This proven process leads to stunning, durable tile that’s built to last decades, not just years.
Do handmade ceramic tiles require special installation?
Not necessarily, but handmade tiles carry natural variation in thickness and size, so working with an experienced tile installer will ensure the best result. Plus, the variety you get from handmade tiles is exactly what will make your finished space feel custom and alive.
Do interior designers recommend handmade ceramic tiles?
Designers love our handmade tile. From custom color blends to one-of-a-kind shapes, handmade tile gives designers creative freedom to make something that’s truly singular. From a cozy kitchen backsplash or a statement lobby installation, time and again our handmade tile gets the job done.
