Eclectic Homes

Cutting Ceramic Tile by Hand

Prior to the arrival of power tools, only the most skilled artisans done ceramic tile cutting edge. It typically took years of work as an apprentice to master the craft and become proficient in it. But there are several methods used today to cut ceramic tile by hand. Pull-handle or even snap-tile cutters, tile nippers, tile scribes and power saws are typical tools.

Pull- or Snap-Tile Cutters

Mechanically operated tile cutters, like snap- or pull-tile cushioning, function by adding a cutting wheel attached to a lever or manage. These kinds of cutters cut only straight lines however work effectively. Mark the tile at the desired location, put it in the tray and align it with the steering wheel. Scribe the tile by applying an even and firm pressure to the grip while simultaneously dragging or pulling the wheel across the tile. Snap the tile over the score line by pressing down on the lever to complete the cut.

Tile Scribes

Tile scribes operate in the same fashion as the stitch cutter by scribing the surface of the tile. It’s a simple tool that looks like a frequent glass cutter. After redesigning a steel straightedge from the desired location on the tile, then dragging the tile scribe along the straightedge in 1 firm, quick movement creates the score. After placing a support under the tile aligned with the score, then you snap the tile by pressing firmly with your hand. Always wear protective gloves if using a ceramic scribe to prevent injury.

Tile Nippers

Tile nippers operate somewhat like a set of pliers. The tool is used to create curved and intricate cuts not possible with straight cutting edge devices. Scribing the tile at the desired location with a ceramic scriber or utility knife ahead makes the task much simpler. Put the tile between the jaws of the nippers and apply firm pressure to the handles while simultaneously twisting your wrist to chip away bits of the tile. It’s crucial to bite small pieces at a time to prevent splitting the tile. The scribe functions as a breaking point, which helps to provide a clean border.

Hand-Operated Power

The two most common power-operated hand tools utilized to cut ceramic tile are the angle grinder as well as the moist saw. An angle grinder features a diamond-edge cutting wheel to cut ceramic tile. With it, it is possible to make straight, curved and L-shaped cuts, in addition to holes in ceramic tile. But if you need a super-smooth border, you should lease a wet saw. Wet saws are easily rented for the day.

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