It only takes a few art tiles to make a dull wall exciting. Tiles with raised or painted designs can powerfully evoke another time and place.

Tiles depicting animals, plants, or celestial objects spur the imagination of children and adults alike.

Many art tiles, especially those with painted designs, have nonvitreous bodies and soft glazes that can be scratched easily.

Others—often, those with raised patterns—are made of sterner stuff. Consult with your tile dealer to be sure how durable the tiles you buy are. Few art tiles are strong enough to be used for a countertop or floor.

Carefully plan how and where art tiles will fit into a tiled wall. If they are exactly the same size as the other tiles, just make sure to position them pleasingly. But if they are different sizes, you'll probably need to cut the surrounding tiles.