Today we'll cover some of the hand tools you may need to complete your tile project. Power tools will be covered in a future installment.
The first thing to consider is a "board", or, "snap cutter". This is a tool, into which you place the tile to be cut, run a small carbide scoring wheel across it, then snap or break the tile along that score line. These tools range in size from 12 inches, on up. For practical purposes, a 20 inch cutter (like the one shown) will work for most tile jobs. These cutters can only be used for straight cuts, and can only be used on ceramic tile. They will not work on natural stone. The cuts these cutters make may not be suitable for edges that
will be visible.You'll also need a small speed square, a large speed square, pencil, utility knife, tile nippers, tape measure, rubbing stone and chalk line. You may also consider 2 and 4 foot levels. These can be used for their intended purpose, checking for plumb and level, as well as a straight edge.
Well there you have it. This small set of hand tools will serve you well in your tile setting adventures.
I'd like to take a moment and get a little personal.
My beloved pet and dear companion, Murphy (a ten year old mastiff) has been ill, and is very near the end. I have an extremely difficult decision to have to make. One that I've never faced before. I have to decide whether or not euthanasia will be necessary. And yet, I don't know if it is morally ethical to put a dog down. I know the poor boy is suffering, or at the very least, extremely uncomfortable. If only he could communicate his wishes, I know that's silly, but it would make things so much easier. The last thing I want to do is make him suffer for my own inability to make the call, I only want what is best for this poor animal. Wish me luck.
Thanks for listening, see ya next time.
