Custom tile designs are limited only by your imagination.

If you're thinking of rebuilding, remodeling, or redecorating your house, you're probably concerned with everything from hardwood floors and furniture to wall paint and window treatments. But while you're thinking of these, you should also give some thought to tile. No longer just for kitchens and bathrooms, custom-made tiles come in a nearly infinite variety of colors, patterns, and textures, and can help you beautify any room in your home.

Tisa Adamson started art school at California State College, Los Angeles when she was only 12, and went on to receive a scholarship in Fine Arts and Music from the Creative Studies program at the University of California, Santa Barbara. In 1997 she joined the family business, South Pasadena's Mission Tile West, where she serves as General Manager and Co-owner and showcases her artistic prowess in the form of ceramics, terra cottas, and stone tiles. Here she offers advice to help you choose a custom tile for your next home improvement project:

• Show the designer what you want.
  When you first approach a tile store you need to be clear about the goals and budget for your project. Bring along photos or drawings of what you want to accomplish so that when you sit down with the store's designer, he or she will get a feeling for your project.
  
• Bring snapshots and plans.
  Snapshots of the relevant areas of your house are always helpful. If you're planning a major remodeling job, bring along the blueprints or plans.
  
• Custom tiles can't be returned.
  Designs for custom tile are limited only by your imagination. Of course, if something is and especially for you, you probably won't be able to return it. You need your measurements and numbers to be accurate, so that you don't end up with a lot of expensive extra tile.
  
• Work with your contractor.
  Most tile stores will not do measurements or calculate quantities for you. Ask the store for a materials list and then get together with your contractor to determine exactly how much of everything you'll need.
  
• Don't wait until the last minute.
  Make sure to plan in advance. If you need to lay tile tomorrow, you're not going to get exactly what you want from a tile store. If you don't have to install it for a few months, on the other hand, you're more likely to get whatever you need.

For more about tile, check out the following websites:

Tiles on the Web
www.tiles.org

Tile Heritage Foundation
www.tileheritage.org

Tile Council of America
www.tileusa.com

HGTV: Fix it Up!: Ceramic Tile Floor
www.hgtv.com

HGTV: Collectible Treasures: Ceramic Tiles
www.hgtv.com

InfoTile.com
www.infotile.com