How it's made & Installed
A timeless process passed down through generations, preserving the soul of Moroccan heritage in every tile.
Sourcing the Raw Earth
Natural clay is hand-selected and carefully cleaned of stones and organic debris to ensure purity and quality before the crafting process begins.
Wedging the Clay Mixture
Water is blended into the clay, which is then kneaded thoroughly by hand or foot until it reaches a silky, uniform consistency free of air pockets that could later cause cracking.
Forming the Raw Slabs
Artisans spread the prepared clay into flat slabs about one to two centimeters thick, then cut them into rough square or rectangular forms once they have firmed up.
Sun-Drying the Cut Forms
The shaped pieces rest under open skies for several days, allowing moisture to evaporate naturally. Each tile is checked regularly to correct any warping or surface flaws.
First Kiln Firing
The dried tiles are loaded into a kiln and heated to around 900–1000°C. This initial firing, called biscuit firing, turns the fragile clay into a hard, porous ceramic body ready to receive glaze.
Hand-Applying the Glaze
A liquid mixture of mineral pigments is carefully painted onto each biscuit-fired tile. This hand-glazing step gives the zellige its brilliant signature colors.
Second Kiln Firing
The glazed tiles return to the kiln at a slightly lower temperature (800–900°C). The heat fuses the glaze into a glossy, waterproof layer, deepening and enriching the colors.
Chiseling the Shapes
Master artisans use a hammer and a sharp chisel to cut the glazed tiles into precise geometric forms — stars, diamonds, triangles — that will compose the final mosaic.
Mosaic Assembly
The cut pieces are laid out face-down following a predetermined pattern. Each shape locks into its neighbors with remarkable precision. A cement backing is then poured over the arrangement to bind everything solidly.
Polishing & Refining
Once the cement has set, the mosaic is polished to smooth any rough edges and reveal the glossy depth of the glazed surface, producing a finished panel of radiant geometric art.
Installing the Masterpiece
Zellige mosaics are set into floors, walls, fountains, and architectural features, bringing handcrafted artistry into both traditional and contemporary spaces.
Watch the Process
See the hands of the masters at work.
