For the greatest variety of colors and shapes, take a look at mosaic wall tiles. In addition to arrays of squares and hexagons similar to mosaic floor tiles, wall mosaics may combine several splashy colors, or have crazy-quilt designs.

Some of these are expensive, but they are no more difficult to install. Mosaic tiles may be glazed ceramic, stone, or porcelain.

Tile stores also carry circular, rectangular, and geometric mosaics that can be used as decorative features. By the square foot they are expensive, but it takes only a small section to liven up a wall.

In addition to the mosaics on display, a tile store may have catalogs you can leaf through. Some decorative sections fit into a tile job easily; others may require that you custom-fit the surrounding tile.

Mosaics are the best choice when you want to tile over a curved wall surface. The smaller the individual tile, the neater the job will look. If you have the time, consider making your own mosaic pattern, using shards of broken tile.