Innovative Ideas for Repurposing Spare Tiles

August 22, 2024

Introduction

If you've recently completed a tiling project, you might be left with a few spare tiles and no clue what to do with them. Rather than letting them collect dust in your garage, why not repurpose them into something useful and beautiful? This blog post will guide you through innovative ways to transform those extra tiles into unique creations that can breathe new life into your home. From functional decor to eye-catching art pieces, get ready to be inspired!


Why Repurpose Spare Tiles?

Environmental Benefits

Repurposing leftover tiles is an eco-friendly option. Instead of contributing to landfill waste, you can give these materials a new lease on life. This small step not only helps reduce clutter but also minimizes your carbon footprint.

Cost-Effective

Why spend more money buying new items when you can create something special with what you already have? Repurposing tiles allows you to make the most of your previous investment, adding value without additional cost.

Personal Touch

Adding a personal touch to your living space enhances its charm. Repurposing tiles into customized pieces can make your home truly one-of-a-kind. Plus, it's a great conversation starter for guests!


Coasters

Easy to Make

Transforming spare tiles into coasters is one of the simplest ways to repurpose them. All you need is some felt or cork to stick on the bottom of the tiles to prevent scratching surfaces.

Custom Designs

Personalize your coasters by painting them or using adhesive vinyl decals. You can match them to your existing decor or create seasonal designs for different times of the year.

Functional and Stylish

Not only do tile coasters look chic, but they are also highly functional. They're perfect for protecting your furniture from water rings and heat marks.


Garden Markers

Durable and Weather-Resistant

Tiles make excellent garden markers because they are durable and can withstand various weather conditions. Simply write the names of your plants or veggies on the tiles with a permanent marker or paint.

Easy to Install

You can easily install these markers by placing them on stakes or directly in the soil. Either way, they’ll stay put and keep your garden organized.

Aesthetic Appeal

Tiles add a touch of elegance to your garden. They stand out against the greenery and can make your garden look more organized and beautiful.


Mosaic Tabletop

Create a Focal Point

Turn an old table into a stunning focal point by creating a mosaic tabletop with your spare tiles. Arrange them in a pattern or random design and secure them with tile adhesive and grout.

Custom Fit

You can cut the tiles to fit the shape of your tabletop perfectly. This makes it a highly customizable DIY project.

Long-Lasting

A mosaic tabletop is not only beautiful but also very durable. It can withstand daily wear and tear, making it a practical addition to your home.


Backsplash Accents

Add Visual Interest

Use spare tiles to add visual interest to your kitchen or bathroom backsplash. You can create a border, a pattern, or a random arrangement for a unique look.

Easy to Install

Installing tile accents is a straightforward process. You can use tile adhesive to place the tiles and grout to fill in the gaps.

Cost-Effective Upgrade

This is a cost-effective way to refresh your space without having to redo the entire backsplash. It’s an easy weekend project that can make a big impact.


Picture Frames

Enhance Your Photos

Turn plain picture frames into eye-catching pieces by decorating them with spare tiles. You can cover the entire frame or just add accents.

Creative Freedom

Feel free to get creative with colors and patterns. Mix and match different tiles to create a unique design that complements your decor.

Personal Gift

Tile-decorated picture frames make wonderful personalized gifts. They show that you put thought and effort into creating something special.


Trivets

Protect Your Surfaces

Spare tiles make excellent trivets for protecting your countertops and tables from hot pots and pans. Simply add felt pads to the bottom to prevent scratching.

Stylish Utility

Trivets can be both functional and stylish. Choose tiles that match your kitchen decor for a cohesive look.

Easy Maintenance

Tile trivets are easy to clean and maintain. Just wipe them down with a damp cloth, and they’ll look as good as new.


Candle Holders

Ambient Lighting

Create beautiful candle holders with your spare tiles. Arrange them in a pattern and secure them together with tile adhesive.

Customizable

You can customize the size and shape of your candle holders to fit different types of candles. Add a personal touch with paint or decals.

Safety First

Tiles are heat-resistant, making them a safe option for candle holders. They’ll protect your surfaces from heat damage and wax drips.


Planters

Indoor and Outdoor Use

Transform spare tiles into stylish planters for both indoor and outdoor use. Create a box shape and secure the tiles together with strong adhesive.

Drainage Solution

Drill small holes at the bottom for drainage. This will help keep your plants healthy by preventing waterlogging.

Unique Design

Tile planters add a unique touch to your gardening space. You can match them to your garden markers for a cohesive look.


Bathroom Soap Dish

Functional Decor

Use spare tiles to create a soap dish for your bathroom. It’s a practical item that also adds a touch of style to your space.

Easy to Clean

Tile soap dishes are easy to clean and maintain. Just rinse them under water, and they’ll be as good as new.

Custom Fit

You can customize the size and shape of your soap dish to fit your bathroom counter perfectly.


Wall Art

Statement Pieces

Turn your spare tiles into statement pieces of wall art. Arrange them in patterns or mosaic designs and frame them for a unique artwork.

Endless Possibilities

The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating tile wall art. Mix and match colors, shapes, and sizes to create a design that speaks to you.

Personal Expression

Wall art is a great way to express your personal style. Each piece you create will be unique and reflect your creativity.


Coaster Sets as Gifts

Personalized Presents

Create sets of tile coasters as personalized gifts for friends and family. Choose designs and colors that match their tastes.

Functional and Thoughtful

Coaster sets are both functional and thoughtful gifts. They show that you’ve put effort into making something special and useful.

Easy to Package

Tile coasters are easy to package and present. Stack them together and tie them with a ribbon for a lovely gift presentation.


Conclusion

Repurposing spare tiles is a fantastic way to add unique, personalized touches to your home while being environmentally conscious and cost-effective. From functional items like coasters and garden markers to decorative pieces like wall art and mosaic tabletops, the possibilities are endless. Get creative and make the most of what you have! Don't know where to start? Reach out to our community for more ideas and inspiration. Happy crafting!



We serve Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerfille, West Lake Hills, Bee Cave, Manor, Sunset Valley, Manchaca, Buda, Hornsby Bend, Hudson Bend


Tile contractors, Tile contractor, Bathroom remodel Austin, Tile installers


Tile Installation Pros Austin

Austin, TX 78744

512-312-7956

https://www.tileprosaustin.com


You might also like

TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin

High-Tech Bathrooms: Fixtures That Blend Innovation with Functionality

By TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin • September 4, 2025
When it comes to home upgrades, bathrooms are no longer just about style and comfort—they’re also about smart technology. Today’s high-tech bathrooms combine sleek design with innovative fixtures that make daily routines easier, more enjoyable, and more sustainable. At TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin, we help homeowners bring modern convenience into their spaces with bathroom remodels that blend innovation with functionality. Why Upgrade to a High-Tech Bathroom? Investing in high-tech bathroom fixtures isn’t just a luxury—it’s a smart move that adds value to your home. Austin homeowners are increasingly choosing modern bathroom upgrades for three main reasons: Convenience: Touchless controls, smart mirrors, and programmable showers streamline your daily routines. Efficiency: Water-saving faucets and energy-efficient lighting reduce utility bills. Wellness: Features like heated flooring, built-in aromatherapy, and chromotherapy lighting create a spa-like experience at home. Popular High-Tech Bathroom Fixtures in Austin Homes 1. Smart Toilets From self-cleaning technology to heated seats and built-in bidets, smart toilets redefine comfort. Many even include touchless flush features—perfect for a more hygienic bathroom. 2. Digital Showers Imagine starting your shower at the perfect temperature with the touch of a button or voice command. Digital shower systems give you precise control over water flow, temperature, and even preset preferences for each family member. 3. Smart Mirrors High-tech mirrors come with built-in LED lighting, anti-fog features, and even touchscreens that display news, weather, or your daily schedule. They combine modern aesthetics with real-world functionality. 4. Touchless Faucets Inspired by commercial design but reimagined for residential bathrooms, touchless faucets reduce water waste and keep surfaces cleaner. 5. Heated Floors and Towel Warmers Step into comfort with radiant heated flooring and towel warmers that bring a spa-like touch to everyday life. 6. Integrated Bluetooth Speakers and Lighting Set the mood with customizable LED lighting and enjoy music or podcasts with built-in speakers—all synced to your smartphone. Designing Your High-Tech Bathroom in Austin Upgrading to a high-tech bathroom requires thoughtful planning. At TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin, we help homeowners choose fixtures that fit their lifestyle, design preferences, and budget. Whether you want a few smart upgrades or a full bathroom remodel, we can guide you through the process of creating a space that blends luxury, innovation, and practicality. Ready to Upgrade Your Bathroom? If you’re dreaming of a bathroom that combines modern technology with timeless design, now is the perfect time to remodel. At TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin, our team specializes in creating high-tech bathrooms tailored to your needs. Contact us today to start your project and bring the future of bathroom design into your Austin home. Serving Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerfille, West Lake Hills, Bee Cave, Manor, Sunset Valley, Manchaca, Buda, Hornsby Bend, Hudson Bend Bathroom remodeling Austin, bathroom remodeling Austin Tx, Austin bathroom remodeling, bathroom remodelers Austin TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin Austin Tx 78745 512-270-2168 https://www.tileprosaustin.com/bathroom-remodeling-austin

Optical Illusion Tiles: Tricks to Visually Expand a Small Space

September 3, 2025
When working with a small bathroom, kitchen, or entryway, every design decision matters. One of the most effective ways to make a compact area feel more open is through optical illusion tiles . The right tile patterns, shapes, and colors can completely transform how spacious your room feels—without knocking down a single wall. At Tile Installation Pros Austin , we specialize in helping homeowners maximize their spaces with professional tile design and installation. Here are some tried-and-true tricks to visually expand a small space using tiles. 1. Choose Large Format Tiles for a Seamless Look Smaller spaces benefit from larger tiles because they create fewer grout lines, which reduces visual clutter. The result is a smoother, more continuous surface that makes the room appear bigger. Consider oversized porcelain or ceramic tiles for bathroom walls, shower surrounds, or kitchen floors. 2. Go Diagonal with Tile Placement Laying tiles at a 45-degree angle creates a sense of movement and depth, drawing the eye outward and making the room feel more expansive. This trick works especially well on narrow floors and can break up the boxy feel of tight layouts. 3. Use Light-Colored Tiles to Brighten the Room Color plays a huge role in how large a space feels. Light shades like white, beige, or soft gray reflect more light, giving the illusion of a bigger, airier room. Pairing light tiles with similarly toned grout further enhances the effect. 4. Incorporate Glossy and Reflective Finishes Glossy tiles bounce light around the room, adding brightness and dimension. In small bathrooms or powder rooms, reflective finishes on wall tiles can amplify natural or artificial light, instantly opening up the space. 5. Experiment with Vertical or Horizontal Stripes Tiles arranged in linear patterns can manipulate perspective. Vertical stripes make ceilings look higher, while horizontal layouts can widen a room. This trick is especially effective in long, narrow bathrooms or galley kitchens. 6. Try Mosaic Tiles for Depth and Texture Strategic use of mosaic tiles can add texture and a sense of depth to walls, backsplashes, or shower niches. When installed carefully, these intricate patterns create visual interest without overwhelming the room. 7. Blend Floor and Wall Tiles Continuity is key in small spaces. Extending the same tile from the floor up the walls reduces visual breaks, making the area feel unified and therefore larger. This technique is popular in modern bathroom remodels where homeowners want a sleek, spa-like feel. Why Choose Tile Installation Pros Austin? At Tile Installation Pros Austin , we combine design expertise with flawless craftsmanship to ensure your small space looks and feels its best. Whether you’re remodeling a bathroom, upgrading a kitchen backsplash, or reimagining your flooring, our team can help you select and install tiles that maximize style and space. Final Thoughts You don’t need more square footage to enjoy a spacious-looking home—just the right design tricks. With optical illusion tiles , even the smallest rooms can feel bigger, brighter, and more inviting. Ready to expand your space without a major renovation? Contact Tile Installation Pros Austin today for expert tile installation and design services that bring your vision to life. We serve Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerfille, West Lake Hills, Bee Cave, Manor, Sunset Valley, Manchaca, Buda, Hornsby Bend, Hudson Bend Tile contractors, Tile contractor, Bathroom remodel Austin, Tile installers Tile Installation Pros Austin Austin, TX 78744 512-312-7956 https://www.tileprosaustin.com

The Art of Small Bathroom Design: Creating Space for a Tub or Shower

By TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin • August 28, 2025
Designing a small bathroom doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, style, or functionality. With the right layout strategies, creative storage solutions, and professional remodeling expertise, even the coziest bathroom can feel spacious and luxurious. For homeowners in Austin, the challenge often lies in maximizing limited square footage while still enjoying the benefits of a relaxing tub or a convenient shower. That’s where thoughtful design makes all the difference. Understanding the Challenges of Small Bathroom Design Small bathrooms can feel cramped if not carefully planned. Common challenges include: Limited floor space that makes adding a tub or shower difficult. Awkward layouts where plumbing, doors, and windows restrict options. Storage needs that compete with bathing fixtures. But with expert bathroom remodeling, these challenges transform into opportunities for clever design. Making Room for a Tub or Shower Adding a tub or shower in a small bathroom comes down to strategic space planning. Here are some proven design approaches: 1. Choose a Corner or Alcove Tub Compact tubs designed for corners or alcoves save valuable floor space while offering the relaxation of a soak. They work especially well in narrow bathrooms where a standard tub wouldn’t fit. 2. Go Vertical with a Walk-In Shower A frameless glass shower creates the illusion of more space while giving the bathroom a modern, open feel. By using vertical storage niches inside the shower, you gain function without sacrificing space. 3. Combine a Tub and Shower For families or those who want both convenience and luxury, a tub-shower combo is a smart solution. It offers versatility without requiring separate spaces. 4. Install Sliding or Pocket Doors Traditional swing doors take up room. Replacing them with sliding or pocket doors can instantly free up valuable square footage. 5. Optimize Corners and Nooks Unused corners or oddly shaped spaces can be redesigned into functional areas for compact tubs, corner showers, or built-in shelving. Small Design Details That Make a Big Difference Beyond the tub or shower itself, the finishing touches elevate a small bathroom remodel: Light, neutral colors open up the room visually. Large-format tiles reduce grout lines, making the space appear bigger. Floating vanities and wall-mounted fixtures free up floor space. Well-placed mirrors and lighting create depth and brightness. Why Work with TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin? Transforming a small bathroom into a stylish, functional retreat takes expertise. At TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin, we specialize in space-smart designs that maximize comfort and beauty—even in the tightest layouts. Whether you dream of soaking in a cozy tub or upgrading to a sleek walk-in shower, our team can bring your vision to life with precision and craftsmanship. Final Thoughts The art of small bathroom design lies in balancing function with creativity. By carefully planning layouts, using space-saving fixtures, and paying attention to details, you can enjoy a tub or shower without feeling cramped. With the help of professionals like TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin, even the smallest bathroom can become a big highlight of your home. Serving Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerfille, West Lake Hills, Bee Cave, Manor, Sunset Valley, Manchaca, Buda, Hornsby Bend, Hudson Bend Bathroom remodeling Austin, bathroom remodeling Austin Tx, Austin bathroom remodeling, bathroom remodelers Austin TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin Austin Tx 78745 512-270-2168 https://www.tileprosaustin.com/bathroom-remodeling-austin

Contact Us for more information

Contact Us