The Handmade Tile Difference
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While many design concepts are heavily debated and discussed, there is one fact that designers can agree on: handcrafted tile is in a league of its own. The modern market offers endless tile options, which is why designers and homeowners alike strive to focus on the best quality and production methods. Although mass-produced tiles might be tempting due to their lower cost, handcrafted tiles offer unparalleled visual appeal and quality.
Read article07 / 31 / 2024
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What is the difference between mass-produced and handcrafted tile?
The most obvious difference between mass-produced and handcrafted tile is simple: aesthetics. The beauty of handmade tile lies in its uniqueness, as each individual piece boasts beautiful texture, color variation, and perfectly imperfect detail. This intrinsic variation means that no two tiles are exactly alike, giving your space a distinct and personal look. It’s immediately apparent when someone has installed handcrafted tile, as the character and charm simply cannot be achieved with the uniformity of factory-produced materials.
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Which types of tiles are handcrafted by local artisans?
At Zia Tile, we offer several varieties of handcrafted tile to choose from, each with its own unique story and charm. Each tile type is handmade or hand-cut, ensuring personal attention to each unique piece.
The material that originally made us fall in love with handmade tile is cement. Ideal for a more uniform look that doesn’t sacrifice character, our collection of 68 colors (and counting), plus Zia-designed patterns and unique shapes, makes this carefully curated collection the go-to destination for this tile type.
Cement tiles develop a natural patina over time, adding to their handcrafted charm and making them a living, evolving part of your home.
Next, our zellige line is instantly recognizable as handmade. These clay-based tiles are handcrafted by Moroccan artisans and dried in the North African sun. Each piece is unique; the careful creation process is as special as the result, showcasing minor imperfections lauded in this art form.
Our terra cotta Cotto tiles are made in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, reflecting the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the region.
Last but not least, our bush hammered limestone tiles are pounded by hand, creating a textured surfaces that will appear timeless and full of character in equal measure, adding a touch of rustic elegance to any space.
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Does the production process of the tile affect the quality?
The short answer is: yes. Because every tile is made by hand, real humans are responsible for shaping, cutting, and coloring each piece, bringing extraordinary attention to detail and a deep understanding of the materials. A human touch means better quality control overall, as artisans can ensure that each tile meets Zia’s high standards of excellence.
Besides the differences in manufacturing processes, the materials themselves also differ significantly. Handcrafted tiles use raw materials, contributing to the strength and beauty of the tile. The careful selection of materials combined with meticulous craftsmanship ensures the aesthetic and quality standards are consistently met.
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How does pricing differ between handmade and factory tile?
Like any work of art, the price has a direct correlation with quality. Handcrafted tiles are made in smaller batches and each artisan is compensated fairly for their meticulous work. The raw materials used in these tiles cost more than the fillers commonly found in mass-produced tiles, reflecting a commitment to quality and sustainability.
When you purchase a handcrafted tile, you are purchasing a story—each tile tells the tale of the artisan who created it, the materials used, and the traditional methods employed. While a mass-produced tile may be priced a few dollars less per square foot, you are purchasing a building block rather than a work of art. The investment in handcrafted tiles is an investment in authenticity, durability, and the unique beauty that comes with artisanal craftsmanship.
How does purchasing tile from a design brand differ from corporations?
In addition to the quality of the physical tile, buying from smaller brands makes a statement about who you support and the values you uphold, plus you’ll also get personalized service and a level of care that is often missing from larger entities.
At Zia Tile, we care as deeply for our clients as we do our tiles. We recognize you are investing in craftsmanship and a unique vision, and are here to help every step of the design, order, and installation process. We appreciate your affinity for artisanal tiles, ensuring that ancient production methods and high-quality materials continue to be valued and preserved.
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