Everything you need to know about zellige tiles
By Clay Imports
Born in the heart of North Africa, zellige tiles are steeped in a rich tradition and stand as a testament to handcrafted artistry. Their intricate creation process is admired worldwide. In this article, you'll discover everything you need to know about zellige tiles: what they are, how they are made, and how they can become the highlight of your next project.
- What’s a zellige tile?
- Why should I use Zellige tiles?
- Recommendations while installing zellige tiles
- Order your zellige tiles online here
What’s a zellige tile?
A zellige tile is a type of tile that originated in Morocco. The word "zellige" comes from the Arabic word “zalij,” which means “polished stone” or “tile.” Initially, these tiles were primarily white and brown, but as the craft gained popularity and technology advanced, the color palette expanded.
These tiles were originally made from clay sourced from the Moroccan city of Fez—yes, the same place where the famous hat was created! Fez, one of the most important cities in Morocco, became the center of zellige production, notably during the Marinid dynasty rule from the 13th to 15th centuries. The tiles were used to adorn palaces and other significant buildings in Fez and throughout Morocco, earning the city the nickname "Athens of Africa."
Today, you can find these tiles all over the country; they are a staple in Moroccan culture and often called “the princes of tiles” because they are a symbol of sophistication, wealth and power. We used this inspiration to make these tiles in Mexico and we are sure the results speak for themselves. Take a look at the photos we took on our trip to Morocco to see these tiles in all their beauty.
Why should I use Zellige tiles?
The most notable difference between zellige and other clay tiles are their beveled edges. Zellige beveled edges allow for extremely narrow grout joints, which makes them perfect for miter trims or inset. You can learn more about these tile trims here.
As mentioned earlier, zellige tiles are renowned for their use in creating intricate designs and patterns. Due to their detailed craftsmanship, zellige tiles are generally smaller than other types of tiles. At Clay Imports, we offer 4” x 4” square tiles and 2” x 6” tiles.
Another important factor to consider with zellige tiles is glazing. Glazed tiles have a layer of liquid glass applied during manufacturing, which is then baked onto the surface. This glazed finish is relatively hard, making it resistant to scratches and stains, resulting in a more durable product.
At Clay imports, we’ve created a more refined version of zellige tiles using the techniques behind the making of Saltillo tiles. For instance, we use molds instead of the traditional hand cut, which results in a faster production and a smoother back surface that allows for an easier installation of zellige tiles. But that’s not where innovation ends! The traditional glazing technique of zellige tiles is in fact, the technique we use to glaze all our terracotta tiles, making us the first tile makers to glaze saltillo tiles and first to make zellige tiles in Saltillo!
Finally, zellige tiles are among the most variance-rich tiles on the market. This makes them highly desirable to installers and designers who appreciate an authentic handmade product or who want to add a unique touch to their installations. Handmade tiles naturally exhibit variations in color, texture, and sheen, which are inherent traits of natural materials like terracotta. These variations are not defects but rather a natural and integral part of the product's charm.We highly recommend ordering samples before making a final purchase to confirm and appreciate these natural variations in each tile.
Recommendations while installing zellige tiles
Born in the desert, zellige tiles are crafted to endure. These tiles are well-suited for both indoor and outdoor use, and they can be installed not only on walls but also in low-traffic floor areas. Before installation, it's important to inspect your tiles. We always recommend opening all boxes and carefully examining the materials for breakage. Imperfections such as tile chips, surface fractures, and irregular thicknesses, are characteristic of zellige tiles.
After inspecting your tiles, take some time to mix your tiles from all boxes to achieve the perfect blend. As mentioned before, zellige tiles often have significant variations in color and hue, so we recommend laying out your tiles beforehand. Check out our guide on how to lay out tiles, or, if your budget allows, consider doing what Ashley Campbell did—print your installation plan before placing the first tile.
Finally, take a moment to look at the installation guide for zellige tiles. A proper installation and maintenance will ensure a smooth installation and a fantastic result. We recommend taking a look at our Clay Care products. These maintenance items have been carefully tested with our products, and they are designed to preserve your tiles' beauty, ensuring their longevity and durability. From sealers to cleaners, purchasing these maintenance items together with your tiles not only simplifies your order but also prepares you to enjoy your tiles for a long time.
Order your zellige tiles online here
Zellige tiles are a one-of-a-kind, handmade product—a testament to the beauty that well-crafted, artisanal work can bring to your home in an age where material quality is often compromised. These charming tiles are among our favorites, as they have inspired us to innovate in the tile market. If you'd like to learn more about zellige tiles, check out our beginner's guide, and if you have any questions, feel free to email us at contact@clayimports.com.
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