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How to Use Relief Tiles for Kitchen Backsplashes, Showers, and Stair Risers

How to Use Relief Tiles for Kitchen Backsplashes, Showers, and Stair Risers

Relief tiles add dimension, texture, and a touch of artistry to any space—making them a standout choice for kitchen backsplashes, shower walls, and stair risers. Their raised designs can range from subtle to bold, offering endless possibilities for homeowners and designers alike. Below, we’ll explore how to incorporate relief tiles into these areas and why they’re worth the investment.

1. What Are Relief Tiles?

Relief tiles, sometimes referred to as high-relief or raised tiles, feature three-dimensional patterns on the surface. These designs can be floral, geometric, or decorative motifs that bring an artisanal flair to your home. Sourced from expert craftspeople, such as those found at My Custom Made, these tiles often reflect traditional Mexican craftsmanship—blending cultural heritage with modern utility.

2. Kitchen Backsplashes: Functional Art

Practical Benefits

A kitchen backsplash does more than protect your walls from splashes and heat. When using Mexican high relief tiles, you can:

  • Introduce vibrant color and unique textures
  • Tie the backsplash design seamlessly with rustic or contemporary kitchen themes
  • Add a focal point that draws attention to your cooking space

Design Tips

  • Mix and Match: Combine relief tiles with solid-colored tiles to create visual contrast.
  • Focal Strips: Use relief tiles in a vertical or horizontal strip above the stove or sink for added emphasis.
  • Cohesive Palette: Coordinate tile colors with your countertops, cabinetry, and appliances for a unified look.

3. Elevating Showers with Texture

Spa-Like Ambiance

Transform a plain shower into a luxurious retreat by incorporating raised tile sections. The tactile quality of relief tiles offers a unique sensory experience while creating eye-catching detail that breaks up bland, flat surfaces.

Key Considerations

  • Moisture Resistance: Ensure you select tiles with proper sealing and waterproofing treatments for shower walls.
  • Placement: Use relief tiles as an accent wall or as decorative bands to avoid overwhelming smaller shower spaces.
  • Easy Maintenance: Regularly wipe or rinse tiles and grout lines to prevent build-up—helped by using high-quality materials from reputable sources like My Custom Made.

4. Stair Risers: A Surprising Statement

Why Tile Your Stair Risers?

Staircases are often overlooked in home design, but Mexican high relief tiles instantly elevate your interior or exterior stairs. Each riser can feature a repeating pattern or an eclectic mix, turning a functional structure into a vibrant style element.

Installation Tips

  • Measure Each Riser: Stair risers may vary in size; customizing the tile layout ensures an even look.
  • Consider Durability: Use slip-resistant or textured tiles for safety when installing on staircases.
  • Color Coordination: Pick a consistent color scheme if you prefer a harmonious appearance, or mix patterns to create a bohemian look.

5. Coordinating Relief Tiles with Other Elements

Relief tiles pair exceptionally well with other handmade or artisan features. Explore how to embellish hallways with decorative Talavera tiles or incorporate custom copper accents for a cohesive aesthetic throughout your home. Maintaining a common theme or color palette helps tie different areas—like the kitchen, bathroom, and staircases—together in a visually pleasing way.

6. Shopping for Quality Relief Tiles

Ready to enhance your space with relief tiles? Choosing a reputable provider ensures you get:

  • High-quality craftsmanship for durable, long-lasting tiles
  • Authentic designs that showcase cultural heritage and artisan skill
  • A wide variety of patterns and finishes to match your personal style

For an extensive range of relief tiles and expert guidance, My Custom Made offers handcrafted products and knowledgeable customer support.

Final Thoughts

Relief tiles can breathe life and personality into any corner of your home—from the sleek modern kitchen backsplash to a spa-like shower oasis or statement-making stair risers. Focus on quality, choose designs that complement your overall décor, and don’t be afraid to experiment with colors and patterns. With the right selection and strategic placement, relief tiles can turn ordinary surfaces into stunning works of art.

Kitchen with Mexican High Relief Tiles

Kitchen with Mexican High Relief Tiles

Discover the captivating allure of Mexican decorative relief tiles and how they can breathe new life into your kitchen. When it comes to adding character and charm to your kitchen, few design elements can rival the beauty and allure of Mexican Talavera tiles in general, especially of the most intricate of them all- the high relief models. These exquisitely handcrafted tiles, known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, have been adorning kitchens around the world for centuries. From traditional hacienda-style kitchens to contemporary spaces seeking a touch of cultural flair, Mexican high relief tiles offer a unique and visually captivating option. In this blog post, we'll explore the enchanting world of Mexican relief tiles in the kitchen and discover how they can transform your culinary haven into a breathtaking work of art.

high relief tiles

High relief tiles bring a burst of color and culture to your kitchen. Their vibrant palette ranges from rich earth tones to striking blues, yellows, and greens. Whether you prefer a single-color pattern or a vibrant mosaic, these tiles can be customized to match your style and complement your kitchen decor. Not only do they create a visually stimulating environment, but they also infuse your kitchen with the warmth and energy characteristic of Mexican culture. Apart from alluring tones, these tiles are so popular because of their unique texture. Any kitchen with handmade high relief tiles will nourish with those outstanding patterns and you will easily upgrade and brighten any dull room with our handmade tiles.


The craftsmanship behind Mexican high relief tiles is unparalleled. Skilled artisans meticulously handcraft each tile using the traditional "cuerda seca" technique. This method involves outlining the design on the tile with a mixture of beeswax and manganese oxide, followed by individual hand painting. The result is a unique work of art, with every tile carrying its distinct character and imperfections. This level of craftsmanship ensures that your kitchen has a truly authentic and unique aesthetic. Mexican tiles are also versatile, complementing a variety of interior styles, and their timeless appeal ensures they will remain a captivating addition to your kitchen for years to come. Incorporating Mexican relief tiles into your kitchen design is a fantastic way to infuse your space with color, culture, and artistry. These tiles can transform an ordinary kitchen into a visually stunning masterpiece with their vibrant colors, artisanal craftsmanship, and timeless appeal. So, whether you're looking to revamp your existing kitchen or start from scratch, consider the allure of Mexican relief tiles and let them transport you to the enchanting world of Mexican design and heritage.