Laying Tiles in a Pinwheel Style

Map out the tile pattern. Create the pattern you want with the tile on a flat surface. This will help as you lay the tile. Even though it sounds simple, it's all too easy to make a mistake when you're focusing on laying the tile.

Put down a layer of mortar. Work one row at a time. Spread out a layer of mortar with a trowel. Flip over the trowel to the textured side and texture the mortar. This provides a firm grip on the tile.

Lay out the center of the pinwheel. A small square of tile should go in the center. If the entire design is 1 foot square, this small square should be placed 6 inches from the wall. Place a grout spacer on each side of the center tile.

Lay out the large tiles of the pinwheel. The large tiles in this design are set on the diagonal. Use four tiles around the center, with the edges touching the center piece. Place grout spacers next to each tile.

Fill in the remaining areas with small tiles. Lay these down in between the large tiles. Set these tiles on the level, not diagonally. Place grout spacers between.

Finish the row. Once you've got the hang of the design, the rest will go easier. Finish the row, lay down more mortar and continue until the floor is complete.

Grout the tile. Remove the grout spacers as you work and fill in the area between the tiles with grout. Use a small putty knife and scrape off any excess as you work. Use a damp cloth to wipe grout off the tiles as you go.