Have a room or patio at home that desperately needs TLC but has you stumped as to where to start even with millions of inspiring ideas on Pinterest (pretty please follow my boards!)? Learn More About Cement Tiles, Stencils & Where to Use Them Now explores both options for a tile look.
Learn More About Cement Tiles or Cement Tile Stencils Now!
The kitchen at our new house is going to get its share of tile, but what kind of tile do you suppose?
![MeaLu Victorian Encaustic 8" x 8" Cement Field Tile in Turquoise/Blue/White](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/28273905/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/5936/59363040/MeaLu+Victorian+Encaustic+8%2522+x+8%2522+Cement+Field+Tile+in+Turquoise/Blue/White.jpg)
After all, I AM partial to white marble. Even a little bit of tile can work wonders!
My humble little laundry room (a pass through between the garage and center hall) was an utter embarrassment until we tiled the wall with marble subway tile and added color and bead board to the walls.
![Come see how I made our awful little pass through laundry room next to the garage function better and look peaceful with simple inexpensive DIY - Hello Lovely Studio. #beforeafter #laundryroom #diy #makeover #serenedecor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/laundry-room-after-8.jpg)
An option I considered (after spying projects using tile stencils) was stenciling the walls. After all, if you still want to tile after seeing the stenciled effect, it’s easy enough to tackle that more labor intensive project later.
![Black and white cement tile stenciled bathroom floor by @a.moroccanspinkandgold.dream. #cementtilestencil #tilestencil #stenciledfloor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cement-tile-stencil-athens-@stencilslab-@a.moroccanspinkandgold.dream_.jpeg)
But first…
![Humor quote about how it's hard to keep your mouth shut - Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/funny-humor-quote-mind-and-mouth-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
I think cement tiles began appearing on my radar with the dawn of a popular home improvement show: Fixer Upper.
Did you see this episode where Joanna chose a plaid cement tile for the laundry room floor?
![Plaid encaustic floor tile pattern in a lovely laundry room by Joanna Gaines on Fixer Upper. #plaidfloor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/plaid-encaustic-floor-tile-fixer-upper-joanna-gaines.jpg)
This post contains affiliate links which I hope you will use since they won’t cost you a penny extra yet may earn this blog a small commission.
Cement Tiles (Also Called Encaustic Tiles)
Encaustic or cement tiles are popular for mud rooms, bathrooms, kitchen backsplashes, and more.
What makes them a popular choice in a variety of custom design projects?
![Stunning black and white cement tile flooring in bathroom (and zellige tile in shower) - @riadtile (design by @the.little.bird). #cementtile #tileflooring #bathroomtile](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cement-tile-black-and-white-bathroom-floor-zellige-shower-@riadtile-design-by-the.little.bird_.jpg)
The tiles are handmade and hard wearing.
![Beautiful beachy blue cement tile flooring in a gorgeous design by Beckmannhouse. #cementtile #bluetile #tileflooring](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cement-tile-flooring-blue-@beckmannhouse.jpeg)
Cement tiles are easy to care for and live with.
There are definitely critical issues to consider though so if you’re contemplating using this material, read this article from HGTV.
An All Time Favorite Cement Tile
There are such gorgeous examples, and the one below is still my favorite!
What a beautiful light grey tile!
![Medina 8" x 8" Cement Field Tile](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/14431178/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/6612/66121533/Medina+8%2522+x+8%2522+Cement+Field+Tile.jpg)
They Cost More & When You Learn How They Are Made, You’ll Get It
Kitchen With Cement Tile Backsplash
![Argana 8" x 8" Cement Field Tile](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/61046877/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/6220/62207384/Argana+8%2522+x+8%2522+Cement+Field+Tile.jpg)
![Argana 8" x 8" Cement Field Tile](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/59900410/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/3157/31574180/Argana+8%2522+x+8%2522+Cement+Field+Tile.jpg)
![Argana 8" x 8" Cement Field Tile](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/39761832/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/1752/17520026/Argana+8%2522+x+8%2522+Cement+Field+Tile.jpg)
![Atlas 8" x 8" Handmade Cement Tile in Green/White](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/33522965/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/3596/35967936/Atlas+8%2522+x+8%2522+Handmade+Cement++Tile+in+Green/White.jpg)
![Tadla 8" X 8" Handmade Cement Tile in Black/White](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/41435794/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/5275/52751366/Tadla+8%2522+X+8%2522+Handmade+Cement++Tile+in+Black/White.jpg)
![Tafilalt 8" x 8" Cement Field Tile in Black/Gray](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/26900249/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/4989/49891454/Tafilalt+8%2522+x+8%2522+Cement+Field+Tile+in+Black/Gray.jpg)
Breathtaking Mud Room to Inspire
![Airy, bright, white, and Scandinavian style in a modern farmhouse mud room by Bria Hammel Interiors. Glorious cubbies, light grey and white tiled floor, and shiplap walls. #mudroom #modernfarmhouse #shiplap](https://i.pinimg.com/564x/87/b2/64/87b2644c6e0cb0643c1153ca46b06b23.jpg)
Field Tiles That Resemble Cement Tiles
If you love the look of cement tiles but don’t yet have the budget, check out these poser possibilities…they may not be handmade, but the price is right and the installation is standard.
![Encausto 8" x 8" Porcelain Field Tile in White/Black](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/79496969/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/6250/62505600/Encausto+8%2522+x+8%2522+Porcelain+Field+Tile+in+White/Black.jpg)
![Royalty Galactic 17.63" x 17.63" Ceramic Field Tile in Blue](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/49421977/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/6363/63639005/Royalty+Galactic+17.63%2522+x+17.63%2522+Ceramic+Field+Tile+in+Blue.jpg)
Faux Cement Stenciled Tiles
How fun is it that you can try out the effect of cement tiles without any mess or much expense at all! Just a few hours and a quality stencil may help you achieve the look!
![Amazing transformation of a bathroom floor with a cement tile stencil and paint - @jessica_kaarina. #tilestencil #bathroomfloor #diystenciledfloor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cement-tile-stencil-bathroom-floor-black-white-@jessica.jpeg)
What is especially smart about going this route is that even though encaustic tiles have been around since the 1850’s, they continue to trend. If the look falls from favor, it is as easy as painting right over the stenciled wall, floor, or patio.
![Beautiful blue and white Spanish style cement tile stenciled backsplash by @stnecilslab. #cementtilestencil #stenciledbacksplash #spanishtilestencil](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cement-tile-stencil-backsplash-looks-like-spanish-tile-@stencilslab.jpg)
Here is my favorite stencil which mimics the look of real cement tiles.
![Faux cement tile stenciled wall in a kitchen for backsplash. Jewel Tile stencil by Cutting Edge Stencils.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71IdX8OVgRL._SL1000_.jpg)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51o5SVXJGAL._SL1000_.jpg)
Charcoal grey paint to get this effect: RIGHT HERE.
![Jewel Tile stencil by Cutting Edge Stencils on a floor in a bathroom. #stencil #cementtile #fauxtile](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71YWEL4W9ZL._SL1000_.jpg)
Faux Cement Tile Stencil Tutorial
They don’t just make it look easy – it truly is as easy as rolling over a stencil with a little bit of paint – matching up registration marks – securing with painters tape – and repeating.
Isn’t it a good looking wall which cost next to nothing!?!
![DIY Faux Cement Tile Stenciled Wall](https://www.shanty-2-chic.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_0541.jpg)
More Stencils To Get a Cement Tile Look!
![Nagoya Tile stencil by Cutting Edge Stencils. Faux cement tiled floor with a stencil! #stencil #fauxtile #cementtile](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71Vy0%2BK1rPL._SL1000_.jpg)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61GL%2BgbCfDL._SL1000_.jpg)
![Nagoya Tile Stencil](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71C2wurSOxL._SL1000_.jpg)
![Amalfi tile stencil.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71URdUyoKdL._SL1000_.jpg)
![Amalfi tile stencil by Cutting Edge Stencils](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51gyBI-WpwL._SL1000_.jpg)
![Amalfi tile stencil.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81g3h5qsCLL._SL1000_.jpg)
My Stenciling Projects
![A feminine dressing room with dramatic stenciled statement wall. Fortuny stencil by Royal Design Studio was used in light grey over white. Hello Lovely Studio. #stenciledwall #interiordesign #stencil #shabbychic](https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uLWgJ8ufitE/UqZ4qY5aCJI/AAAAAAAAZx0/4WPN07TPl-U/s1600/hello+lovely+dressingroom019.jpg)
![A feminine dressing room with dramatic stenciled statement wall. Fortuny stencil by Royal Design Studio was used in light grey over white. Hello Lovely Studio. #stenciledwall #interiordesign #stencil #shabbychic](https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDzmksei7I8/UqZ4l9e3qmI/AAAAAAAAZxk/8BRSVRBc0ZM/s1600/hello+lovely+dressingroom015.jpg)
Need a Louis Ghost Chair or 6? I love them for desk chairs, extra seating, and outdoor entertaining. A cool beans bonus? They stack. Find them HERE.
![A feminine dressing room with dramatic stenciled statement wall. Fortuny stencil by Royal Design Studio was used in light grey over white. Hello Lovely Studio. #stenciledwall #interiordesign #stencil #shabbychic](https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-96JwSx6yzA0/UqZ4eSO0AgI/AAAAAAAAZxM/RQMCv3kYWww/s1600/hello+lovely+dressingroom002.jpg)
![A feminine dressing room with dramatic stenciled statement wall. Fortuny stencil by Royal Design Studio was used in light grey over white. Hello Lovely Studio. #stenciledwall #interiordesign #stencil #shabbychic](https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sFWKguV61Mg/UqZ4gzwwCpI/AAAAAAAAZxU/WJSFTbBKpxI/s1600/hello+lovely+dressingroom009.jpg)
![Springtime in Paris stencil was used for this DIY'd stenciled mirror by Hello Lovely Studio.](https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GCkql0ypq3g/Tm6otAXRxiI/AAAAAAAAODc/o8IjKkmTR1M/s1600/stencil5.jpg)
![Springtime in Paris script stencil by Royal Design Studio was used on wall of bathroom by Hello Lovely Studio.](https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JhdiRWN5yNc/Tm6owbntJwI/AAAAAAAAODg/8IbU9bOI7_g/s1600/stencil2.jpg)
![French farmhouse decor style in a courtyard garden with pea gravel, a vintage watering can, and a mirror stenciled with a French poem. #hellolovelystudio #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #courtyard #stenciled #mirror](https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VXoR6Dm7nco/WXVfd8HnXrI/AAAAAAAAy5g/zOfcC4wRBAUOrVqBzdpnZJIe8Fkmg-UnwCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-06-07%2B15.32.06.jpg)
![French Country decor inspiration in a French courtyard with pea gravel, boxwood, bench, and vintage decor. #hellolovelystudio #frenchfarmhouse #frenchfarmhouse #outdoordecor #courtyard #peagravel #boxwood](https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UxzzIF1SPn8/WXVfdUoNvYI/AAAAAAAAy5U/WUwYiJIszFgo9nBTZcbmSrUdDAGLoCVLwCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-06-07%2B15.28.52.jpg)
Script Stencils I’m Crushing On!
I have been working with stencils for various creative wall treatments since the early 90’s, and stencils have come a long way!
![DIY French Script Stenciled Wall - Hello Lovely Studio. #stencils #frenchscript #accentwall #statementwall #diy #homedecor #bedroomdecor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/french-script-stencil-diy-hello-lovely-studio-0019.jpg)
Script style stencils remain a favorite of mine, and this example below is one I used in a bedroom.
![vintage style script stencil](https://i.etsystatic.com/15411378/r/il/107464/1583075257/il_570xN.1583075257_s5al.jpg)
![My white studio with Belgian style linen chairs and European country style - Hello Lovely Studio. #whitelinen #serenedecor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/IMG_9369.jpg)
I have seen all sorts of stenciled pillow covers online, and the effect is especially successful on vintage canvas fabric. (You can always add fabric sizing medium to paint on fabric).
![French Lavender Vintage Script Label Stencil by Stencil Stash.](https://i.etsystatic.com/15411378/r/il/31e4d2/1557636371/il_fullxfull.1557636371_fnah.jpg)
This Parisian inspired stencil can be used for a variety of projects – imagine a rustic wood box, a pillow case, a door, and of course, a decorative sign for the wall.
![Cafe de Flore stencil by Stencil Stash.](https://i.etsystatic.com/15411378/r/il/ec7ed5/1342541896/il_570xN.1342541896_16fq.jpg)
If you have shopped for antique grain sacks from Europe then you know how pricey they are. Here’s a low cost alternative to creating something suggestive of an antique. The lettering is so Old World and authentic!
![Grain Sack Vintage French Script Stencil by Stencil Stash.](https://i.etsystatic.com/15411378/r/il/8bc550/1432769236/il_570xN.1432769236_ff7b.jpg)
YOUR TURN: Have you used a stencil to transform a wall? Have you used cement tiles in any of your spaces?
p.s. Find more inspiration for laundry rooms and mud rooms RIGHT HERE.
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
Thanks for shopping RIGHT HERE to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!
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You have just solved my ugly powder room problem. Pepto-Bismol pink tiles must go.
We went with “fake” cement tiles in our renovation because the real thing is expensive and more delicate, which seemed like a bad idea for rentals.
Author
Yay! I hear you – tgere are plenty of situations where cement tiles are less desirable. The sheer weight of them is an important consideration! As I consider my options, I realized it made sense to start with a stencil and from there decide if I will like living with tiled walls in there. 🙂
Just one question about stenciling. I noticed when they finish one section and move to another one, their tape goes right over the previous section; don’t you have to wait until the paint is dry before you tape over it? Just curious. It is adorable.
Author
Great point. I’m guessing the video editing leaves that detail out. I do know from my own projects that there is so little paint on the roller/brush that it is like drybrushing and it dries very quickly. Chalk paint dries quickly as well compared to regular latex.
I love cement tiles and considered them for my laundry room. The fact that my washing machine vibrates with a heavy load, such as towels, prevents me from doing so. I believe it will crack them or the grout. I wonder if there is good quality cushion floor that mimics tiles?
I clicked on Follow My Boards and it said they didn’t exist.
Author
Thanks a bunch for letting me know about that link! Boo! I think I fixed it right up. I hear you about the noise level thing and not wanting to create a nightmare in the laundry room. Cushion-y faux cement tile flooring sounds trippy imaginative to me! Maybe you discovered a gap in the marketplace! We have hardwood floors in the laundry room, and no complaints!
stone tiles are unbeatable and more durable than cement tiles . They are also harder than granite
Author
We have installed stone tiles but don’t have experience with cement tiles yet. I have heard they can be a beast to do yourself so better to have a pro do it.
yes, they can and make you a lot of cleaning when you are fussy
Author
🙂
grout is not my favorite!
I love these style of tiles because I love Morroc. Old technique but so stylish and the design embellishs every room
Author
Yes indeed – Moroccan tiles are so timeless and look so perfect across so many design styles. I dream of a cottage with lots of blue and white tiles… 🙂
I would like to install cement tiles. Because cement tiles are durable and family-friendly. I love these tiles for so many design styles.
Author
Let us know how the install goes – readers are always curious about the difference between installing cement and ceramic tiles!