CHAPTER 7  •  Crossroads

Why did you name Chapter 7 Crossroads?

Daniel Webster defines a crossroad as an intersection or convergence. Chapter 7 Crossroads from Jeffrey Court represents the merging of old world tile traditions with the new. Combining an ancient tile making technique with colors and patterns popular today, Chapter 7 definitely is a crossroad in hand-crafted tile making.

What are the key features of Chapter 7 Crossroads?

The centerpiece of Chapter 7 Crossroads are the hand-glazed ceramic decos executed in the ancient Cuerda-Seca technique. This multi-step technique requires much handwork resulting in each tile being a true work of art. Produced in our California factory and stocked in over 50 color and design variations, we are sure you will find the perfect decorative complement to ensure your tile installation is truly unique.

Chapter 7 Crossroads consists of 6 field colors ranging from cool whites and blues to rich greens and browns glazed in a unique satin finish. Produced in our California factory and stocked in a 4x4, 4x8, a fantastic 3 1/2 x 5 elongated hex shape, and mesh mounted ceramic mosaics Chapter 7 offers numerous design possibilities.

Jeffrey Court has also sourced glazed terra cotta floor tiles in two unique shapes - Spanish key and hex from a high-quality boutique overseas factory. These tiles measure approximately 12x9 and are stocked in the six matching field colors along with an unglazed format.

To add a touch of "sparkle", we developed 8 coordinating colors and blends of 12x12 mesh-mounted crushed glass tiles in both 1x2 bricks and 1x1 squares. These crushed glass sheets can be used for backsplash, feature wall, and shower installations. We recommend the use of a high-quality penetrating sealer to protect the crushed glass from water absorption and staining.

Finally, to finish off your design inspiration Chapter 7 includes a large assortment of carved ceramic relief moldings, bands, and liners. These unique pieces are offered in all six field colors and are an inexpensive way to add a personal touch to your installations.

Where can this collection be used?

The satin-glazed field tiles offered in 4x4, 4x8, 3 1/2 x 5 elongated hex, and ceramic mosaic medleys can be used on any interior wall installation including backsplashes, shower and tub surrounds, hearth surrounds, and wainscoat walls. Similar exterior wall installations are recommended for areas not subjected to freeze-thaw conditions. Please note that these satin glazed tiles can etch if exposed to acids for extended periods - spills should be cleaned up immediately. Jeffrey Court does not recommend the use of these tiles on counters and food serving areas.

The glazed and unglazed terra cotta tiles offered in the 12x9 Spanish key and hex shapes are suitable for both floor and wall interior and exterior residential and light commercial applications.

The crushed glass 1x2 and 1x1 mesh mounted mosaics are recommended for interior wall installations. If used in a wet area such as a shower or tub surround, a high quality penetrating sealer is recommended to prevent staining. These tiles are not recommended for submerged applications such as swimming pools, spas, or fountains.

Are there any special design or installation tips for Chapter 7 Crossroads?

Chapter 7 Crossroads has surface bullnose, bead, and architectural mouldings to allow for versatile installations.

The 2 1/2 x 2 1/2 hand glazed decorative tiles are designed to "drop in" to the ceramic mosaic medleys. Use these decos to bring interest to any installation.

The Handpainted borders can be a focal point behind a kitchen cook top and when used on bathroom walls and shower enclosures, or used as a hearth surround. The satin leather glazes with the gloss painted designs add beauty and a unique touch to any room.

Install a hexagon pattern and use our "pinpoint" liner in between the horizontal part of the hex, for a designer accent.

The 4x8 leather-satin field tiles can be used vertical with a bead liner to create a stripe much like a wainscot wall.

Incorporate either the Spanish key or hex terra cotta floor tiles in corresponding colors to completed a sharply designed floor-wall combination.

We produce Chapter 7 Crossroads to reflect the shade variations associated with handmade tile. As with all Jeffrey Court handmade tiles, we strongly recommend laying out and blending the tiles prior to installation. This step will ensure a proper color blend in order to achieve a classic look for your installation.

The shade variation in Crossroads is far less than many Jeffrey Court ceramic chapters. However, a noticeable variation between field and decorative elements exists. This is a nuance to be embraced and one of the many reasons why hand-crafted tiles are sought out and used by the design community.