6 Creative Ways to Use Leftover Tiles
It’s important to order extra tiles to account for mistakes or repairs on your home renovation project. But if you end up with more tile than you need, there are a few ways you can use the leftovers to liven up your space.
1. Tile Coasters
All you have to do is attach some felt to the bottom of each tile to prevent it from scratching your table or counter surface. Use odd or misshapen tile pieces for a more rustic or creative look, or cut them to neat or uniform shapes for a more refined look. Stack four tiles together and add a bow for a great gift.
2. Dry Erase Magnet Tiles
If you have leftover plain, glossy white tiles, you can repurpose them as dry-erase magnets for your fridge or office. Just affix a magnet — or if you have a larger piece of tile, a few magnets — to the back with some glue and you have the perfect spot to leave notes, grocery lists, etc.
3. Serving Tray or Hot Plate
You can use a single large tile or several mosaic tiles to create a serving tray. Start by cutting a piece of plywood to support the tiles. Affix them to the wood with an adhesive and once dry, apply grout and let dry again. Finally, attach felt pads to the bottom to prevent tabletop scratches.
If you’re using porcelain or another heat-resistant material, you can also use this same process to create a hot plate.
4. Design a Mosaic Mirror
Purchase a basic mirror with a frame from Amazon or your local store. Remove the mosaic tiles from the mesh lining and lay them around the frame to create the desired pattern. Once you are satisfied with the design, start attaching the tiles to the frame one by one using an adhesive.
5. Elegant Planter Box
This project comes courtesy of Centsational Style and its very simple. You’ll need the following materials:
- Wooden planter box
- Wide plastic putty knife
- Thin set mortar
- Mosaic tiles
- Grout
- Large sponge
- Stain or paint and applicator
- Painter’s tape
If you’re applying sheets of mosaic tile, cut them to fit the areas of the box where you’d like to place them. Then, once ready, apply the mortar to the sides of your box and affix the tile. Once dry, you can stain or paint the wooden trim. Apply the grout to the tile and allow to dry again.
6. DIY Centrepiece
A cylindrical or box vase provide the easiest surfaces for attaching all the tiles. Begin by laying out the tiles according to your desired style and look, then use craft glue to start attaching them to the vase before allowing it to dry. Finally, add some flowers to create a beautiful centrepiece or the perfect housewarming gift.
Let your ideas flow and your creativity shine through the extra tiles lying around. For all things tile visit Trini Tile.