How to Age Quarry Tile

Quarry tiles are hard, durable tiles made of red clay. The tiles are typically left unglazed, so that the color on the surface penetrates through the entire tile. While quarry tiles do not have a high absorption rate, they can absorb liquids if unsealed. They darken, age or patina in time. If this effect is desired, hasten the patina finish by darkening the tiles with linseed oil before sealing them.

Linseed oil
Foam paintbrush
Beeswax
Soft cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Dip a foam paintbrush into the linseed oil and apply the oil directly onto clean, dry quarry tiles. Paint the oil in even strokes. Quarry tile does not absorb oil as quickly as other red clay tiles, such as terra-cotta, but it dries to an uneven finish if too much or too little oil is used in any one area.
- 2
  Let the quarry tiles completely dry, and then examine the finish. A second coat of oil darkens and ages the tiles more. Repeat the oil process if this is desired.
- 3
  Wait until the tiles completely dry, and then rub a layer of beeswax into the tiles with a soft cloth. Use a circular rubbing motion across each tile’s surface. This produces a light, dull finish on the tiles and prevents surface staining.

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