DIY Encaustic Tile Look Alike Landscape Pavers

We are all loving the cement tile look right now. With retro, vintage and globally inspired designs, they truly are suited for a variety of spaces. Even though we’ve started seeing an influx of knock-offs hitting the scene, they can still be pricey when working within a tight budget. And there hasn’t been much to hit the outdoor living spaces scene yet. So I came up with a way to get the cement tile look for outdoor spaces but for a very budget friendly price.

“Encaustic tiles are ceramic tiles in which the pattern or figure on the surface is not a product of the glaze but of different colors of clay. They are usually of two colors but a tile may be composed of as many as six. The pattern appears inlaid into the body of the tile, so that the design remains as the tile is worn down.” [excerpt from Wikipedia- Read More]

The same process applies for the now popularized encaustic cement tiles. Instead of clay, cement is used. Obviously this process is more labor intensive (even if it’s done by machines and not people) and therefore costs more than the look alikes where the pattern is merely glazed over top a plain tile. In most every interior space you and I would ever deal with, these tiles are perfectly suitable and won’t wear down to reveal the true colors of the tile.

For exteriors, simple grey pavers are fantastic for recreating the look. They’re neutral enough for more any space and the colors you choose to put onto it will show up easier than if you chose a colored or darker or more textured stone.

I went with the square grey patio stone from Lowe’s. I ordered online, went to the online order pick up desk and they directed me to where I should park my truck. They did all the loading with a fork lift. Pretty awesome.

To make the design, I used the Americana Fleur De Lis stencil with a sponge brush and DecoArt patio paint in the color black.

I am absolutely in love with how they came out and all my friends and family comment on them when they visit, too. It’s a little touch that helps bring style and interest to a space that can look pretty cookie cutter. I find the selection of outdoor landscaping to be pretty basic and complements all styles. But with a little paint and a stencil, those basic pieces can be turned into  a true design feature. I hope you enjoyed!