One of our forever favorites in tile is Zellige! Zellige tile can be used to transform any space into a show stopping room with so many application options, from backsplash to flooring and more. Zellige Tile is a tile that is individually handcrafted from water and clay that is fired in a special kiln where heat throughout is not even, creating tiles to be different shades of the same color.
The Process of Making Zellige
This tile has one of the most unique tile making processes around. The entire process from beginning to end is created by talented craftsmen who have passed down the tradition from many generations.
The craftsmen first start the process by creating the clay mixture which is a simple combination of clay and water. Once the mixture is the perfect consistency and there are no chunks of clay, the craftsmen begin to form the clay into molds by hand to make the tile shape. The clay tiles are then fermented for 24 hours. Once fermented, the clay is molded into the proper shape. The molds are then left in the sun to bake and dry out for a day. After 24 hours in the sun the tiles are hammered with a mallet to remove air bubbles (removing the air bubbles is an important part of the process and prevents the tiles from breaking in the future) and are laid out in the sun to dry a second time.
Where Zellige Tile gets its Unique Feature
After this, the tiles are fired in a kiln and then dipped in the selected glaze color and fired for a second time. This is where Zellige tile gets its distinct look. Moroccan Kilns do not circulate heat evenly. No two tiles come out of the kiln the same shade color, even though they were all dipped in the same color glaze.
Zellige Tile is a favorite at Avalon Flooring because of the craftsmanship that goes into creating these beautiful and unique tiles that end up in our clients homes.
Turquesa Zellige 5x5 Glossy Tile
There are a variety of color options and sizes to choose from when looking for the perfect Zellige Tile for your space. Visit a showroom near you to see our Zellige Collection in person and pick the perfect tile for your next home project!
