Step 1

dry fit tiles to determine pattern

cut sheet tiles with utility knife

Dry-Fit the Tiles

Dry-fit tiles before adhering to determine the pattern (Image 1). Sheet tiles can be cut with a utility knife along the grout lines to match up to the inlay tiles (Image 2).

Step 2

measure to center design in room

Center the Design

Once pattern is set, use a tape measure to center the design in the room.

Step 3

mark the design

Mark the Design

Mark corners with a pencil then pick all the tiles back up. Snap chalk lines from corner to corner to make a box for the field tile.

Step 4

mix thinset to peanut butter consistency

spread thinset with square notch trowel

spread thinset and set tiles

Spread Thinset

Mix thinset to a peanut butter consistency (Image 1). Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. Spread thinset in area using a 1/4 x 1/4 square notch trowel (Image 2), then begin to set tiles (Image 3).

Step 5

backbutter the border or inlay tiles

Set Border Tiles

Backbutter the border or inlay tiles using a margin trowel and set them in place.

Step 6

cut field tiles to size with wet saw

use tile niper to make small cuts on tile

Cut and Set Partial Tiles

Use a wet saw to cut the field tiles against the wall to size (Image 1). To make small cuts, such as cuts to go around a radiator, use a tile nipper (Image 2).