Cutting Tiles For Your Corner Installation Just Got Easier With These Tips

Tiling projects are all fun and games until you get to the corner. If you started your tile pattern in the middle of the room as is recommended, it's practically guaranteed that you will have to cut some of your tiles to get them to fit just right, especially if you're working in a room with a lot of angles. It's important to cut tiles with precise measurements to save yourself time and materials. Remember the old adage: measure twice, cut once. Luckily, getting an accurate measurement that leads to a perfect cut is easy by using the tiles themselves as a guide. There are lots of tile trends you'll be seeing more of in 2026, so there's no better time to learn how to cut corner tiles. 

The first step is measuring. There are two solid methods for going about this, each involving only a measuring tape and a pencil. Lay as many full tiles as you can before reaching the corner, measure between the wall and the tiles, then bump ¼ inch off that number to account for gaps in the tile pattern. The distance between the set tiles and each wall corner is how much you should cut off of the custom tile. This method is best when cutting tile for an inside corner.

When cutting tile for an outside corner, you can use the tile itself to take measurements. Find the whole tile that's nearest the corner, and precisely layer two new tiles on top of it. Push the top tile to the edge of the wall, and mark how far the tile goes on the tile underneath it. Realign the two free tiles and slide them over so you can measure the corner's second edge using the same process. If you were successful, the bottom tile should be marked with the square you'll have to cut for everything to fit. To be safe, cut the square a little smaller than you marked. This measurement method is reliable even when cutting herringbone, a tile pattern considered to be one of the most difficult to install.

There are many different tools for cutting tile, but some of the best for amateur tilers are angle grinders, which work with delicate materials like porcelain, and snap cutters, which handle a wider variety of mediums.  Hold onto any scrap pieces you have after cutting. Leftover tiles can be used for a DIY home decor project. Once the tiles have been cut, all that's left is to check that they will fit with room for caulk before setting them in place.