I was recently asked by a friend “how do you decide which pattern to lay your 12×24 tiles? Is there a right or wrong way? And what is the easiest for a first time DIY” -Yen Tran.

When doing a renovation there are so many things to consider. You may think all of the hard decisions are done once you have selected your tile, but there is still one very important decision for your tiles. What design, layout or pattern do you want?

What Tile to Pick

The on trend size of tile right now is 12×24 or larger. This tile format is popular for it’s minimal grout lines and refreshing contrast to the traditional square tile. To simplify this blog we will only discuss the 12×24, although some of these patterns may apply to other sizes as well.

Brick Tile Pattern

The simplest and the most common patterns to install are the Brick pattern, the ¾ Brick and the Stacked. These patterns are great in both small and large applications, as well as if you are placing a mosaic feature strip. The classic brick lay is a great pattern for DIY as it is the easiest to install and you will have the least cuts or waste. This pattern however is less ideal for bowed tiles which many distributors will inform you of. Using a ¾ brick pattern can be helpful if your tile has a slight bow to it (To check if your tile is bowed; place it on a flat surface and check to see if there is a gap in the middle.) If your tile has a noticeable gap your best bet will be to stack them, eliminating the lip that is caused by the highest point meeting right next to the lowest.

1/2 Brick Pattern Style

Stacked Pattern Style

1/4 Brick Pattern Style

Parquet and Ladder Tile Pattern

These styles have a little more work but they are more interesting than a regular brick style. The first is a parquet a simple yet often forgotten pattern, laying 2 rectangular tiles adjacent to each other then crisscrossing them creates a more lively atmosphere with a square box look. The other style is ladder, which is installed much like brick style but this time having the width be the offset area. If you are a confident DIY installer this might be a good option for your next renovation.Parquet and Ladder

Parquet Pattern Style

Ladder Pattern Style

Pinwheel and Herringbone Tile Pattern

If you’re looking for a bold exciting pattern try out the Herringbone or Pinwheel. These patterns can add an element of interest to even the plainest tiles, making it possible to create a dynamic look with even simple price efficient tiles. The Herringbone looks great with a simple patterned tile or a small area. Using a busy porcelain or natural stone with so much movement might make it look busy, deterring from the other features in the room. To achieve this look just turn tiles 90 degree to form a V and keep going until you are dizzy and lost in the pattern. This is sometimes referred incorrectly as a Chevron, but a true Chevron will need every tile cut to form a precise V. The Pinwheel pattern looks great in a large space and can make quite a breathtaking feature in a foyer. This consists of one 12×12 in the center and is surrounded by 12×24. It is important to note that while both these patterns are more advanced, making it more difficult for beginners and frequently costing more in install/labor costs.

Herringbone Pattern Style

Pinwheel Pattern Style

Other Tile Patterns

There are even more options than this, including Basketweave, Cobblestone, Linear, and various other styles but they usually require several different sized tiles to complete. They may not be the best idea for a DIY job, but they can be breathtaking if done correctly. Also experiment with alternating colors, including checkerboard styles or even a mix of various colors from the same line.

Accents

If you have a small bathroom with low ceilings consider setting your tiles vertical with a vertical mosaic accent strip, this will accentuate length and help give your room the illusion of a higher ceiling. Also think about the direction that the tile will be set on the floor for example long narrow rooms might look slightly and more balanced by placing the tiles horizontal to the entrance.

The possibilities for mixed tile patterns are endless and can be used again and again as borders, accents or room transitions. The border can not only define your space but can help lead the eye to adjacent rooms and can incorporate the beauty of multiple patterns and functionality of a space.

So whether you are using Natural Travertine, Slate, Marble or Porcelain you have so many options after your product selections.

Stone Source will help you out with any questions or concerns regarding both your natural stone and porcelain selections. We have many patterns installed in our showroom to help you see which one might be right for you and your space. So come on in and ask any of our highly trained staff. We would be more than happy to help!

SALE on Tiles Stacked or Brick Patterns – 12 by 24 Tiles – Popular Brick Style Tile Setting Materials and More! Visit our Calgary and Edmonton Tile Stores.

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