All You Need to Know About Penny Tiles: A Versatile and Timeless Tile Option

Dec 04, 2023

If you're on the lookout for a tile option that's not only versatile, but also absolutely timeless and super charming, then look no further than penny tiles! These little gems have been a favorite among homeowners since the early 1900s.

So, what exactly are penny tiles, you ask? Well, picture this: small, round tiles, reminiscent of shiny coins, adorning your space with their elegance and class. They may be small in size, but trust us, they make a huge impact when it comes to your home decor.

The Basics of Penny Tiles

Let's talk about penny tiles. These little guys aren't just your average tiles, oh no. They're small, round, and absolutely adorable. Plus, with sizes ranging from ¾" to 1" in diameter, there's a penny tile size that can fit any space.

Porcelain is the go-to material for penny tiles, with glazed and unglazed options available. If you want to add a pop of color and play with patterns, go for the glazed porcelain penny tiles. But if you want to achieve a more traditional or vintage look, the unglazed porcelain penny tiles are going to be your best bet.

But wait there's more! If you fancy something other than porcelain, no worries, penny tiles also come in glass, ceramic, stone, metal, and even cork. Whatever your style, there's a penny tile option perfect for you.

One of the best things about penny tiles is their non-slip surface, making them a great option for high-traffic and wet areas. And if you've got a curved or uniquely-shaped space, penny tiles are flexible enough to wrap around seamlessly (no awkward gaps or corners). And let's not forget about the fact that penny tiles are super easy to purchase and install, which means you can have a brilliant new space in no time.

Penny Tiles: A World of Colors For Your Home

One of the best things about penny tiles is the variety of colors they come in. From classic black and white to vibrant blues and earthy greens, there's a color to match every style and taste. You can mix and match different colors to create stunning patterns or keep it simple with a single color to make a subtle statement.

Neutral Penny Tiles

You're in luck if you're a fan of classic and timeless style because neutral penny tiles are here to take your home decor to the next level! Neutral penny tiles come in beautiful shades of light greys, beiges, and vanilla whites.

But neutral penny tiles aren't just about the colors. You can also play around with different finishes to add some texture and create a truly captivating look. Matte penny tiles, for instance, give you a non-shiny but sophisticated finish that's oh-so-elegant. And for those wanting to spice things up a bit, textured penny tiles can be used to add a subtle pattern and just the right amount of visual interest.

Neutral Penny tiles
Gold Penny tiles

Gold Penny Tiles

Take a walk on the bold side with gold penny tiles. These little beauties pack a major statement: they're elegant, bold, and oh-so-shiny.

These eye-catching tiles can be used in creative ways to create stunning patterns like an intricate mosaic. And of course, you can also keep it simple with just a few carefully placed gold penny tiles as a fun accent piece in your space.

So whether you're ready to go all out with a dazzling gold extravaganza or simply want a hint of glamour, gold penny tiles will take you there.

Silver Penny Tiles

The silver hues of these marvelous penny tiles can instantly draw attention by creating an atmosphere of modern elegance. The glossy finish further adds a touch of luxury and captures light in the most enchanting way, making any space shine like a thousand stars.

But it's not just about the looks - these tiny gems are as tough as they come. They can handle the hustle and bustle of everyday life with ease plus cleaning them is a breeze - so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your beautiful space.

Silver Penny tiles
Blue Penny tiles

Blue Penny Tiles

Imagine stepping into your bathroom or kitchen, and being instantly greeted by the soothing blue hues of these mesmerizing tiles. It's like taking a plunge into a peaceful lagoon, where stress melts away and serenity takes over.

These blue colored penny tiles have the magical power to evoke a sense of tranquility and calmness, making them the excellent choice for creating your very own little sanctuary at home.

Black Penny Tiles

Feeling some love for a more edgy and bold look? Well, say hello to the black penny round tiles, the secret weapon to making your space pop with intense contrast and undeniable style! These tiles know how to bring the drama without stealing the show. The deep, dark black hue creates a jaw-dropping contrast that commands attention and makes a statement wherever it's used. Talk about turning heads and leaving people in awe! But here's the best part – black penny tiles are the epitome of timeless-meets-trendy. They effortlessly blend the classic look of penny-round tiles with a modern edge, giving you the best of both worlds. It's like having your cake and eating it too, but in the world of interior design!

Black Penny tiles

Best Ways and Spaces to Use Penny Tiles

Now let's talk about how you can use penny tiles to transform your space. Whether you're looking to revamp your bathroom, kitchen backsplash, or even your living room floor, penny tiles are up to the task.

Here are some of the best ways to incorporate penny tiles into your design:

Penny Tile Kitchen Backsplashes

Penny tiles can add a touch of whimsy and charm to any kitchen. Consider using penny tiles as a backsplash to highlight your interior decor. Even a simple, white kitchen can benefit from a pop of color and pattern provided by penny tiles. Choose from a range of colors and patterns to complement your design style.

The pros at Apollo recommend using our Silver 12.2 in. x 12.2 in. Polished Penny Round Glass Mosaic Tile (shown above) because it's a shimmering, beautiful option to make your kitchen pop! Our Silver Polished Penny Tile is a powerhouse of practical benefits too! Made of glass, it's incredibly durable and easy to clean, making it the best selection for an area prone to spills and messes. This beautiful penny tile can handle it all with ease and still look fabulous.

Bathroom Penny tiles

Penny Tile Bathroom Flooring

Penny tiles can also work wonders on your bathroom floor. With their non-slip surface, you can say goodbye to any slippery situations and hello to a safer, more practical bathroom. Plus, with their alluring design, penny tiles are a style statement that will never go out of fashion.

Now when it comes to color and pattern options, penny tiles definitely don't fall short. You can opt for a classic, monochromatic look with timeless white or black penny tiles, adding a touch of understated elegance to your bathroom. But if you want something that strikes a balance between white and black, you can try using our Gray 12 in. x 12 in. Penny Round Polished Glass Mosaic Tile. Take the photo above as your inspiration to get those creative gears turning!

Penny Tile Laundry Room/Mudroom Designs

Laundry day - a day we all dread, but it's a necessary evil. And let's be real, doing laundry is tough enough as it is. So why make it harder on yourself by working in a laundry room that's bland, lifeless, and just plain boring?

Enter penny tiles - the solution that will take your mudroom from drab to fab! These miniature tiles may seem small, but they can surely make a big impact. With a variety of colors, textures, and finishes available, you can easily add personality and charm to the most overlooked room in the house.

To create a high-end look without spending a fortune, we recommend our very own Beige 11.3-in x 12.3-in Polished Wooden Gray Penny Tile. With its unique blend of beige and wooden gray tones, this penny tile is an absolute showstopper.

The best part? This penny tile of ours not only adds a touch of class but also makes cleaning a piece of cake. No more scrubbing and toiling away on stained walls and floors - a simple wipe-down is all it takes to keep your mudroom looking fresh.

Choosing Complementary Grout Color for Penny Tiles

Believe it or not, the grout color can have a huge impact on the overall look and feel of your penny tile design. So, let's dive into the world of grout colors and how to choose the perfect one for your penny tiles.

First things first - the classic choices. White and black grout are the timeless options that pair well with most penny tile colors. For a clean and top-notch look, white grout will do the trick, creating a seamless and cohesive design. On the other hand, black grout can add a dramatic touch, creating a striking contrast that makes penny tiles pop.

You can also choose from a range of playful grout colors.

Picture this - a sea of blue penny tiles with a matching blue grout, or a mosaic of red penny tiles with a fiery orange grout. These eye-catching and unexpected combinations can create a whimsical and distinctive design that genuinely reflects your personality.

Now here's a pro tip - always test different grout colors before committing to one. Get a few extra penny tiles and experiment with different grout colors to see which one suits your design vision the best. This little extra step will ensure the best result and make your penny tile design truly shine.

Tips for Installing Penny Tiles

Installing penny tiles is a relatively easy process, but there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a successful installation. Here are some tips to consider:

  • Preparation is key. Make sure you start with a clean and dry surface, free of any debris.
  • Grab yourself a trusty notched trowel and use it to spread the adhesive evenly across the surface. The key here is to create a nice, even layer. Don't go too heavy-handed or apply too little - finding that sweet spot is the secret.
  • Gently press each tile into the adhesive, making sure they're level and evenly spaced.
  • Don't forget about tile spacers. These little wonders will be your best friends during the installation process. Pop a spacer between each tile to ensure even spacing and a polished look.
  • Once the adhesive has dried and the tiles are securely in place, it's time for the finishing touch - grout. Carefully remove the mesh backing from the tiles and apply the grout.
  • Work it into those spaces between the tiles, making sure to fill them completely.
  • Wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge, and voila - your penny tile installation is complete!

Caring for Penny Tiles

Penny tiles are relatively easy to care for and maintain.

Regular cleaning is your secret weapon.

To do that – Grab a mild detergent and mix it with warm water. Use this gentle solution to wipe your penny tiles on a regular basis. You'll be amazed at how easily it removes dirt, grime, and any other unwanted guest that may have found its way onto your tiles.

Now, here's a handy tip to keep in mind: Steer clear of abrasive or acidic cleaners. These can damage the surface of your penny tiles and leave you with a sad space instead of a happy space. Stick to the mild detergent and warm water combo, and your penny tiles will thank you for it.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the grout! That magical substance that holds your penny tiles together deserves some love too. Over time, grout can become stained or discolored, but fear not; resealing is here to save the day. Make it a habit to periodically reseal your grout. This will not only keep it looking sleek and clean, but will also prevent any pesky stains from making their permanent home there.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of penny tiles is that they come in such a broad range of designs, sizes, and colors, so you can easily find something that will accentuate your space. Plus, penny tiles are relatively easy to install and maintain - what's not to love?

Just make sure to follow the steps outlined earlier for a successful installation and maintenance. And don't forget the grout - it's an important piece of the puzzle!

So go ahead, embrace your creativity, and let penny tiles be the star of your next design project.

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