The process of making porcelain has been around for centuries and was often seen throughout history in the homes of the elite and in bathing areas and spas. Created from natural products extracted from the earth, the tiles are shaped into squares and then fired in kilns. Let’s look at just how glazed tiles are made.

Step 1: The Basics

Mining the natural and organic raw materials is the first step in the process. The base is a mixture of clay and minerals, with 50% made from a material called feldspar.

Step 2: The Transformation

After extraction, the mixture is blended into a semi-fine powder. Water is then added to create a mud-like consistency, called the slurry. Next, the slurry is pumped into a large dryer. Once it has been thoroughly dried, the slurry transforms into a fine clay powder that feels and looks like warm sand.

Step 3: The Shape

The sand is now pressed and formed into a tile shape. At this stage, the tiles are referred to as “green tiles.” Some manufacturers use a method called extrusion, which replaces the pressing step of the traditional process, as the tiles are shaped through a mold. However, the most popular method remains the pressing and forming. Once this has been done, the “green tiles” are dried to remove moisture.

Step 4: The Glaze

Now it’s time for the glazing. The glazing liquid is prepared from a glass derivative called frit. Frit and coloured dyes are mixed together to create the desired look and the glaze is then applied either by a high-pressure spray, or poured directly onto the tile.

Step 5: The Heat

Time to bring the heat! After the glazing step is completed, the ceramic tiles are fired in a kiln at an extremely high temperature. This is where the harder and denser properties of the glazed tiles come from. And voila! The tiles are now ready for use.

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