Whichever project you choose, keep in mind that it’s best to use a tile format and size that will require few cuts to fit. For example, 1- or ½-inch mosaic squares on mesh netting are a versatile choice for many projects and can be cut to size with heavy-duty scissors. Learn how to repurpose the remnants from your kitchen or bath redo with these creative leftover tile projects.
1. Revamp a coffee table with patterned tile.
With a raised border, this online-bargain coffee table was a perfect candidate for a tile facelift. Before you begin, map application options on graph paper to determine the easiest fit. Cut scrap paper to the size of your tile and lay out the design with tile spacers between the patterns. With your visual cue in place, determine any tile cuts and whether finish tiles are needed.
2. Make an easy DIY centerpiece.
3. Create a serving tray or trivet.
A single tile or portion of a larger mosaic can become a serving tray or trivet with simple woodworking skills. Cut a piece of plywood to fit the tile size plus trim. Choose plywood thick and sturdy enough to support your tile. Use liquid nails to attach tile to the center of the plywood piece. Cut quarter-round trim with 45-degree mitered corners to frame the tile, then paint and let dry. Grout between tiles if working with mosaic; let dry. Glue the molding to the tray edges. Clamp until dry. If desired, attach felt pads to protect your tabletop.
4. Refresh a vintage headboard.
Affordable penny tiles are easy to fit into curvy shapes such as this vintage headboard and footboard. Clean, prime, and paint your furniture piece the desired hue. Let dry. Working on a level surface, arrange the tile sheets on your project. We created a paper template for the top of the headboard and footboard and cut the tile sheets to fit. Adjust the tile sheets on the furniture, using spacers as needed, and number the order with painter’s tape. Set tile aside. Protect painted portions with painter’s tape. Using a trowel, spread a thin layer of tile adhesive on the furniture. We worked one row of tile sheets at a time. Repeat with remaining sheets and let dry. Use a tile float ($8, The Home Depot) to apply grout the same color as the penny tiles to hide imperfections. Remove grout residue with water and a tiling sponge.
5. Create custom lighting.
Self-adhesive hooks make this project tool-free. To handle the tile weight, glue the hooks to the back of the glass tiles with a strong adhesive—we used Gorilla Glue Super Glue ($6, Target). Once dry, simply slip each hook over a wire drum-shade frame.
6. Transform a builder-grade bookcase.
This versatile bookcase featured a sturdy, simple frame. We sanded, primed, and painted the unit before applying tile. Because our tiles weren’t square, we cut the edge pieces using a tile saw (available for rent; some home centers will make cuts for you). Lay the bookcase on a flat, protected surface and fit the tiles, using tile spacers. Once you’re happy with the design, move the tile arrangement to the side of your project. Spread a thin layer of tile adhesive on the back of the first opening. Carefully place the tiles using the spacers. Repeat with the remaining openings. Let dry according to the manufacturer’s directions. When fully dry, spread prepared grout over the tile using a tile float, removing excess with a tiling sponge. For this leftover tile project, look for a short bookcase for stability. If you choose a taller style, make sure to secure it to the wall so it won’t tip over.
7. Make a mosaic mirror.
8. Construct DIY tile planters.
Moroccan tiles make striking containers for indoor and outdoor plants. Cut four 3/4-inch square wood dowels to the tile height using a miter box and saw. Attach dowels to the sides of two tiles with clear glue; clamp. Once dry, glue and clamp the remaining sides. We used an affordable basic tile for the planter base. While you can drill a hole in the bottom of the bottom for water drainage using a masonry bit, we opted for a plastic planter insert that’s easy to remove.
