No matter what size area you work on, you will generally need to cut at least one tile.

Most tiled areas require at least one hole to be cut. The key to cutting rectangles and squares in tiles is to avoid cutting beyond the corners.

For successful circles, position the circle at the intersection of two or four tiles rather than cutting into a single tile.
TIP: We recommend choosing a small angle grinder and 105mm diamond blade with a smooth, continuous edge.

1. Cut circles in tiles

1. Cut circles in tiles
Handyman Magazine

Firstly, Score the circle outline.

Mark the circle on the tiles then score the profile with an angle grinder.

Before removing the excess tile, make short cuts on both sides of the semicircle (A and B).

Connect the cuts (C) by making a series of progressively deeper shallow cuts.

Advertisement

2. Make short radial cuts

2. Make short radial cuts
Handyman Magazine

Complete the semicircle with a series of spoke-like radial cuts.

Remove the tabs with a tile nipper and clean up the rough edges with the angle grinder.

3. Clean up

3. Clean up
Handyman Magazine

Grind the edges smooth, working slowly around each curve.


TIP: Buy a square waste outlet, not a round one, for easier cutting.

No matter what size area you work on, you will generally need to cut at least one tile.

Most tiled areas require at least one hole to be cut. The key to cutting rectangles and squares in tiles is to avoid cutting beyond the corners.

For successful circles, position the circle at the intersection of two or four tiles rather than cutting into a single tile.
TIP: We recommend choosing a small angle grinder and 105mm diamond blade with a smooth, continuous edge.

4. Cut squares in tiles

4. Cut squares in tiles
Handyman Magazine

Firstly, mark out the shape in the front sand back of the tile.

Score the front of the tile about 1.5mm deep along the line with an angle grinder.

2. Finish the cut

2. Finish the cut
Handyman Magazine

Turn the tile over and plunge-cut from the back, checking frequently.

Stop when the cut lines up with the marked corners.

Then plunge-cut the remaining three sides.

3. Get connected

3. Get connected
Handyman Magazine

Have a qualified electrician pre-wire the outlets before tiling.

When tiling and painting is complete, have them connect all powerpoints, light switches and fans.

Sign up for emails