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10/06/2019

Creating Herringbone Tile Patterns: Our Favourites

Herringbone tiles are perfect for creating subtle pattern to a scheme; here’s how to achieve that look and our favourite tile choices for laying a herringbone tile pattern.

I often hear the groans from tilers when I mention laying tiles in the herringbone pattern. I wonder if the thought of it is worse than doing it, I think so. What makes me smile is they are always so pleased with the finished results. At the end of the day herringbone tiles do look fabulous, so the extra bit of effort is very much rewarded by the results.

What’s The Difference Between Herringbone And Chevron Tiles?

Herringbone patterns can be confusing for those that aren’t tile geeks, like myself. They can also be muddled with ‘chevron’ tiles, so I’ll set the record straight; it’s all about the zigzag. A chevron tile will create a continuous zigzag and comes to a sharp point. Look for a ‘V’ in the tiles or a corner cut at an angle which will tell you if it’s a chevron tile. The cut angles fit together perfectly, forming that ‘V’ shape. ‘Herringbone’ tile patterns on the other hand have a broken zigzag design. Instead of the pre-cut chevron, rectangular tiles are laid together to form a staggered zigzag herringbone pattern. The same ‘V’ shape is vaguely there, however the planks aren’t cut to fit.

What Tiles Can You Use When Laying A Herringbone Tile Pattern?

When it comes to creating the herringbone pattern, we are often asked which tiles are suitable for herringbone. The answer is: a lot! Basically, any rectangular tile can create a herringbone tile pattern, providing the width of the tile is half (or less than half) of the length.

For a more delicate, smaller format herringbone pattern, we offer herringbone mosaic tiles. These are pre-laid out and fixed on to a meshed-backed sheet for ease of fixing. Both glass and marble herringbone mosaic tiles are ideal for bathroom and kitchen splash back installations.

 

How to Lay Tiles in A Herringbone Pattern

When laying the herringbone pattern, the first tile needs to be positioned at a 45° angle so that the corner is right against the edge. Using this as a starting point and using tile spacers to ensure consistent grout joints, the herringbone pattern should fall nicely into place. More cutting is required when laying this pattern to ensure the tiles fit neatly on all the edges.

Here are some of our favourite tile choices for laying a herringbone tile pattern…

Whether using a traditional stone tile, zingy colours or a gorgeous glaze, herringbone tiles are a versatile choice for creating a timeless surface, which is your favourite?

You can view our full range of tiles online, including limestone, porcelain and marble tiles. Our new catalogue is out now; request a lookbook or sign up to our newsletter to be notified first of our new releases.

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Wilmslow Weybridge Tunbridge Wells Primrose Hill Petersfield Monmouth Outlet Warehouse Monmouth Head Office Monmouth Marlow Harrogate Fulham Road Exeter Cheltenham Cardiff Cambridge Bristol Bath