Buying a Delft Blue tile? Then there's one thing you really shouldn't overlook: how it's actually made.
At first glance, many modern Delft Blue tiles look very similar. But the printing technique, the quality of the ceramic, the production process and even the return policy can make a huge difference to how your tile looks years from now.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the five things we think are worth checking before placing your order, whether you're buying from us or someone else.
First things first: antique or modern?
When people think of Delft Blue, they often picture traditional, hand painted Delftware that's been around for centuries. That's a completely different category.
This guide is all about modern Delft Blue tiles: contemporary ceramic tiles inspired by the classic Dutch style, often personalised with your own photo or designed as unique pieces for your home or as a gift.
1. How is the design printed onto the tile?
This is by far the most important question you can ask. Not all Delft Blue tiles are made in the same way, even if they look similar when they first arrive.
There are four common production methods:
Sublimation
With sublimation, the artwork is permanently embedded into the ceramic using heat and pressure. The design becomes part of the tile itself rather than sitting on the surface.
This is the technique we use because it produces incredibly detailed, photorealistic designs that won't peel, chip or fade when exposed to moisture.
UV printing
Many lower priced tiles use UV printing, where the artwork is printed on top of the ceramic.
While this often looks great straight out of the box, the print can become damaged over time, especially in humid environments like bathrooms and kitchens.
Screen printing
Screen printing also places the design on top of the surface. It's a traditional technique for decorative ceramics but generally offers less detail and is more susceptible to wear than sublimation.
Hand painted
The traditional method, beautiful craftsmanship with a price tag to match. Every piece is different, which adds charm but rules out photorealistic detail and consistent batches.
An easy question to ask any supplier is this:
"Is the design printed on the tile, or is it permanently embedded into the ceramic?"
That one answer tells you a lot.
2. Is the brand honest about what the tile can and can't do?
A good company won't promise perfection.
For example, our tiles are fully water resistant, which makes them suitable for bathrooms, kitchens and other humid spaces.
At the same time, we always explain that they're decorative ceramic tiles rather than construction materials. If you decide to install them permanently into a tiled wall, we recommend using non sanded grout and avoiding abrasive cleaning products.
Clear expectations usually say a lot about the quality of both the product and the company behind it.
3. Is the tile made to order?
Some companies work from large warehouses filled with pre made stock.
Others, like us, only start producing your tile after you've placed your order.
Made to order production has several advantages:
- every tile is freshly produced
- personalised designs are possible
- new collections can be introduced much faster
- less waste is created because nothing is produced unnecessarily
The trade off is that production takes a few working days, but for us that's well worth it.
4. Can you personalise the tile?
One of the biggest advantages of modern Delft Blue tiles is that they don't have to feature windmills or canals anymore.
Today you can turn your dog, your first home, your wedding photo or a favourite holiday memory into a personalised Delft Blue design.
If you're ordering a personalised tile, it's worth checking how the personalisation process works.
With our Delftify tool, you can instantly transform your photo into a modern Delft Blue design and choose from multiple design options before placing your order. Haven't found the perfect one yet? Simply generate more variations until you find your favourite.
That means no surprises when your tile arrives.
5. What else should I check before placing my order?
Before ordering, it's always worth taking a quick look at the company's return policy and customer reviews.
For personalised products, it's completely normal that custom made items can't be returned simply because you've changed your mind. After all, they're made especially for you. For non personalised products, a clear return policy should be easy to find.
It's also worth reading independent reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and, if possible, looking at photos shared by real customers.
A beautiful website is easy to build. Consistently happy customers are much harder to fake.
The checklist in one minute
Before placing your order, ask yourself:
✔ How is the design printed onto the tile?
✔ Is the brand honest about what the tile can and can't do?
✔ Is the tile made to order?
✔ Can I personalise it?
✔ Does the company have clear reviews and a fair return policy?
If the answer is "yes" across the board, you're probably looking at a tile that's made to last.
