Mosaic

These are tough and hard wearing like ceramic tiles but are much smaller, usually consisting of many tiny tiles glued onto a paper or mesh backing approximately 20cm (8in) square. Gaps are left between the tiles for grouting. These are easier to fit around awkward areas and look particularly good on curved surface such as arches and alcoves. For a really individual effect, create a mosaic from bits of broken glass or tiles. Fixing may require a great deal of patience however!

Alternatives

Replacing tiles can be expensive, so see if you can renovate your existing ones using paint or transfers. Paint existing wall tiles by first applying a tile primer sealer followed by an eggshell paint using a roller. Stenciling patterns onto plain tiles is another option. Another way of keeping costs down is by using plain tiles with the occasional patterned one dotted around.

Watch points

-        Make sure the tile you have chosen is right for the application; check this with the supplier.

-        Think about the effect you want to achieve, and does the tiling blend well with fixtures and fittings?