Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about ordering custom Delft tiles. Can't find your answer? Email us and we'll help.

Ordering & Pricing

What's the minimum order?

Our minimum order is 6 tiles. This allows us to fire each batch with proper care. There's no maximum order size.

How much do tiles cost?

Our standard 132mm glazed ceramic tiles start at £14.99 each. We also offer:

130mm Rustic tiles (uneven edges): £17.99 each
100mm Porcelain tiles (frost-resistant): £15.99 each
150mm Porcelain tiles (frost-resistant): £20.99 each

Volume discounts are available for larger orders. Contact us about trade pricing.

How long does delivery take?

Every tile is custom-made, so please allow 4-5 weeks from order to delivery. This includes production time in Stoke-on-Trent and shipping.

We ship worldwide. UK delivery is included in the shipping cost; international shipping varies by destination.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes! We ship to the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Africa, UAE, and Turkey. Shipping costs vary by destination and order size.

Tiles are carefully packed to survive international transit and all shipments are fully insured. We've shipped successfully to customers across the world.

What's your refund policy?

Because every tile is custom-made to your design, we cannot offer refunds or accept returns. Please use our workshop to preview your designs carefully before ordering, and consider ordering a sample first if you're unsure about the material.

If your tiles arrive damaged, contact us immediately with photos and we'll arrange a replacement.

Can I order a sample first?

Yes, we offer sample tiles so you can see and feel the quality before committing to a larger order.

Order a sample to the UK or order a sample internationally.

For specific designs or materials, contact us and we can arrange a custom sample.

Design & Customisation

What if I don't like my design?

No problem! Our workshop generates multiple design options for each prompt. You can regenerate as many times as you like until you're happy.

You can also use our editing tools to mirror, vary, adjust colours, or refine any design before ordering.

Can I use my own image or photo?

Yes! Our workshop lets you upload a photo and convert it into a Delftware-style tile. This works well for pets, portraits, buildings, and landscapes.

For complex custom work beyond our self-service tools, get in touch and we can discuss bespoke options.

Can I reorder the same design later?

Yes. All your designs are saved to your account. Log in and visit your profile to see your previous orders and designs, and reorder with one click.

What styles are available?

We offer over 20 historically-inspired Delft styles, including:

Classic styles: Spider web corners, ox-head corners, fleur-de-lys, Chinese meander
Period styles: Early Delft, Greek A factory, Baroque cartouche
Specialty: Manganese purple, roundel frames, small emblems

Browse all styles to see examples of each.

Azulejo Panels

What is an azulejo panel?

An azulejo panel is a pictorial composition spread across multiple individually fired ceramic tiles, in the tradition of the Portuguese azulejo. Each tile is decorated and kiln-fired separately, then assembled to form a complete scene. Every panel is unique and made to order.

Browse our panel gallery or commission your own.

What sizes are available?

We offer three standard grid sizes: 3×3 (square), 3×2 (landscape), and 2×3 (portrait). Each tile is 130mm, so a 3×3 panel — our largest standard size — measures approximately 39cm × 39cm. Every panel is made to order; allow 4–5 weeks.

For custom or larger dimensions, contact us.

What tile base are panels produced on?

All panels are produced on our 130mm rustic glazed ceramic tile at £17.99 per tile. The rustic base has slightly uneven edges and a handmade character that suits the azulejo tradition.

How do I install an azulejo panel?

Tiles arrive carefully packed for easy assembly. Mount with standard tile adhesive and grout as you would any wall tile. For larger panels, we recommend a professional tiler.

Products & Quality

Where are the tiles made?

All our tiles are decorated and fired in Stoke-on-Trent, the historic heart of British ceramics. We use high-quality ceramic and porcelain bases with professional-grade ceramic transfers.

Are the tiles bathroom and kitchen safe?

Yes. All our tiles are glazed and suitable for bathroom and kitchen walls. They're water-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to clean.

For outdoor use or areas with frost exposure, choose our porcelain tiles, which are frost-resistant.

What's the difference between ceramic and porcelain?

Ceramic tiles (132mm and rustic) have a traditional, slightly uneven glazed surface that catches the light beautifully. Best for indoor walls.

Porcelain tiles (100mm and 150mm) are denser, smoother, and frost-resistant. They work indoors and outdoors, and are slightly more durable.

Both produce excellent results. Ceramic has more traditional character; porcelain is more versatile.

Do you sell plain tiles for mixing in?

Yes! Plain white tiles are perfect for checkerboard patterns or creating breathing room between decorated tiles.

We sell plain tiles individually and by the square metre to match each of our tile bases. View plain tile options.

Installation

How do I install the tiles?

Our tiles install like any standard wall tile. Use a quality tile adhesive suitable for your wall type, and grout with your choice of grout colour.

For best results, we recommend hiring a professional tiler, especially for larger installations or wet areas.

Other Questions

Do you offer gift cards?

Yes! Gift cards are available in any amount and never expire. They're delivered by email (or optionally a physical ceramic card) and can be redeemed against any order.

Do you work with interior designers and architects?

Yes, we have a trade programme for design professionals. Benefits include dedicated support, custom design services, and sample service for client presentations.

How do I get in touch?

Email us at support@notquitepast.com. We typically respond within 24 hours on weekdays.