Description of the Tiles

Unless otherwise noted in an individual product description, these tiles are made of porcelain. I usually use a cream-colored tile that is fired twice, the second time to 2200 degrees F, where the clay of the tile becomes vitreous or having a nature of glass. I have formed depressions in the clay using a method of erosion that I have patented. The result is a clay surface that is similar to a shallow bass-relief carving where the original surface is higher (where the clay is thicker, typically 5/16”) and the eroded areas are about 1/32” to 3/32” lower (thinner).

The primary benefit of the variation in the surface height of the clay is the ability to apply coloring to some areas while leaving other areas uncolored or a different color. After I apply coloring (natural minerals), I spray a coating of clear (usually shiney) glaze over the entire tile.

 A second benefit of the surface height variation is tactile nature of the finished tile. Where the surface of other two-dimensional images, such as watercolor or oil paintings might be soiled or damaged when touched by our hands, these tiles are unaffected by our touch. In fact, touching these tiles makes our connections to the images more tactile and real. When installed as floor tiles, the depressions give a slight texture for enhanced walking grip but the depressions are not deep enough to cause tripping.

I try to design these tiles to be about 1/8” smaller than the nominal dimensions. So, my goal for typical 6” square tile is to make it measure 5-7/8” square. Unfortunately, variation in clay formulations, water content while I manufacture them, firing temperature in the kiln, and imperfection in my ability to cut the tiles apart with a pizza cutter all lead to variation in actual dimensions. I am continually working to improve each of these factors.