About Us

Michigan Handcrafted Ceramic Tile

We create ceramic tile for decoration, gift or installation at our studio and shop in Harbor Springs, Michigan. Specializing in handmade and custom tile, Tileworks was founded in 2010 with the mission of providing superior quality ceramic tile to the retail industry with an Up North feel.  Whether it’s souvenir gift tiles, commemorative tiles or an entire kitchen backsplash installation, we have done it all.  We work in the classic Arts & Crafts style and got our footing with a historic pottery just outside of Petoskey, Michigan with over 30 years of experience in creative clay and production.  In 2021 we decided we needed to expand and moved to our very own studio space in Harbor Springs.  Our tiles are featured in installations and sold through galleries across the U.S.

Custom Tile Design

One of our specialties is the design and creation of custom tile. Our custom installation work has included creative fireplace surrounds, kitchen and bathroom tile and custom shower surrounds.  Basically, if a customer can think it, we can make it a reality in tile. We also work with our clients to design and produce commemorative tiles. These are sold in galleries, by non-profits to be used as awards, corporate promotions, fundraisers, etc. Click on the custom tiles tab above to learn more about custom tiles, personalized tiles and installations.

 

 

Classic Tilemaking Techniques

We design and create all of our tiles using classic methods and molds that have been hand carved or cast from our own original designs.  We use clay developed right here in the midwest.  Our tiles are stoneware and thus suited for indoor or outdoor applications. We begin with a design either hand carved in plaster or sculpted in clay. Once we have a mold we hand press our tiles into our molds and finish the back. We air dry our tiles and fire them twice before they make it to the customer (a process that takes about 4-6 weeks). 

Visit the Tile Studio

Our new location allows for you to check out what we are working on in the studio while you shop!  Our entire studio space is open air and visible from a half wall that separates it from the retail space.  We are always working on something and we love explaining our process.   Most days you will be lucky enough to catch a dog or two running around in the studio!  We look forward to seeing you!