The tiles, plaques, figurines, ornaments, etc. are made of either porcelain or stoneware clay, both of which are noted for their strength and durability.

 

Elfstone tiles come ready for display, with either brass plate hangers which have been bent to fit (usually on the rectangular tiles) or galvanized wire (usually on irregularly-shaped plaques). They can also be framed or used in permanent installations along with commercial tile.

 

Individual Elfstone tiles generally weigh less than 6 pounds. A 9 3/4" x 12" tile weighs about 4 pounds. Standard picture hooks are usually more than sufficient to hold them.

 

Yes, the clay is fine outdoors but you should not use the brass plate hangers outside or in very moist conditions as they are susceptible to rust. The galvanized wire hangers don't rust and are meant for outdoor use. Stoneware clay and porcelain are high-fired clays and do not absorb an appreciable amount of water the way low-fired clays such as in red clay flower pots do. Therefore they will not crumble the way red clay flower pots do if left outside in freezing weather. However, they should not be allowed to become encased in ice as that can expand in aresa of fine detail and cause breakage. They are usually safe in areas that are sheltered or if they can shed water.

 

The terms, "stoneware" and "high- fired" nrefer to clay that has been fired to a least cone 6, over 2000 degrees. The components of the clay have begun to melt together to form glass. The cly shrinks and becomes much denser, more durable, and chip-resistant than clays fired to lower temperatures. Stoneware and porcelain clays do not absorb an appreciable amount of water.

 

Yes, Elfstone tiles can be used alone or with commercial tile in permanent installations. Most of the designs do not conform to the standard dimensions of commercial tiles so it may be necessary to do some tile cutting to get things to fit together well. I can also arrange to make border and filler tiles or, in some cases, trim the tiles to fit when I make them. Contact me to discuss your specific situation.

 

You can use any household cleaning product to clean Elfstone tiles, etc.?

 

I had avoided custom work for many years due to time constraints but have come to regard them as opportunities to do more complex and exciting work. Custom work does take far more time and effort than my regular tiles. The rate for custom designs is $2.00 - $4.00 per square inch depending upon the complexity of the design.