Tile cutting tools

[Outback Annie]

Have renovated bathroom #1 and it turned out a great success. That was our first attempt at tiling and it looks like a pro job if I do say so myself even if it did take months. Now we aren't afraid to experiment a little further with design. Would like to incorporate some curved pathways into the next project (bathroom #2) now that we have the tiling part worked out. Just need to know the right name for the right tool.

Can someone please tell me the name of the tile cutting tool which cuts curves in tiles. Also what sort of cutter cut would cut stones like small river rocks in half to use those as a pathway? Have seen it in finished bathrooms but don't know what they use to get such cuts.

Thank you.

[tileman2000]

Hi Annie,

For rouned cuts I use a grinder,but don't use the blade that comes with it...instead buy a new one,the ones that sell for around $20 cut nicely.You could use the same for the river rock or you could use a wet saw.The wet saw makes finer and cleaner cuts.

[John Bridge]

Hi Annie.

Where are you in Washington? What town? I spend a little time up that way each summer. We like to camp out by Mt. Baker.

The river rocks you're talking about come that way on netted sheets, but you can cut just about any stone in half with a wet tile saw.

I do curved cuts with a combination of the wet saw and biters (nippers). Some guys use small angle grinders, but you've got to be careful with that. Grinders can hurt you if you're not careful.

[Outback Annie]

Thank you. We have a grinder so will give that a go. Didn't think of that. Thanks.

John I'm about 30 miles north of a town called Colville. Spokane is our nearest city about 100 miles to the south of us. Only about 15 miles to the Canadian border tucked right up into the corner of the Canadian, Idaho and Washington borders.

[Lazarus]

If you're using a grinder...pick up a "Turbo-Blade" HD has them although you can get a decent one from Harbour Freight for 10 or 15 bucks. MUCH better than a "grinder-type" wheel.

[Outback Annie]

Thanks for the tip Laz. Will definitely check out the turbo blades next time we're in town.

Forgot to mention, we live on a large creek and have virtually an unlimited supply of river rock so if we can cut rocks ourselves it will save us a bunch of money. Also we live in a very isolated area so it's hard for us to get access to good tile suppliers. Another reason for wanting to use what we have right in our own backyard.

Appreciate all the tips.

Thank you

[RedRock]

Annie,

You might want to check this saw out. Revolution Its a bit more spendy than a grinder. I've never used one but am waiting for a good excuse to add one to my tool collection.

My mother in law lives in Coeur d'alene. We have spent several long weekends up in that country. You certainly live in a beautiful area.

[Outback Annie]

Thanks RedRock. I like that one. Can't find a price on it. Do you have a ball park price for one of those tile saws? Will look for one next time we're in town and check them out.

Yes, it's a beautiful area. Four very different seasons with mountains, rivers, lakes, creeks and streams everywhere. We looked at Idaho before settling here. The panhandle area is also very beautiful.

[Brian in San Diego]

Annie,

I don't think you'll find a Gemini Ring Saw on your next trip into town...it's possible but unlikely. They are pricey little buggers...over a grand at Construction Complete. I also visit your neck of the woods. I have friends that have property in Usk and I have gone up for a couple of weeks each of the past three summers. We go over the mountain to Chewelah to play golf.

Brian

[Outback Annie]

Thanks Brian. That gives me an idea of what I'm up against as far as prices go and you're right...I'm so far out in the boonies it's hard to find things anyway... even in Spokane. I go right through Chewelah on the way to Spokane. I'm about 50 miles north of there. Chewelah also has a nice air strip with some beautiful homes along the runway. I guess you could call it a sky park. Nice area.

Will check out the website you left me. Thanks.

[queenofthetile]

Anybody know if they make a bit for a Dremmel Tool that I could use to shave rounded edges in tile?