How to lay a herringbone pattern

Before tiling, make sure your surface is clean, level, and free of dust or debris. Uneven surfaces can affect the finish, so if needed, apply a levelling compound to smooth out any imperfections. Once your surface is ready, apply a tile primer and let it dry completely. This helps the tile adhesive bond properly to the surface and ensures a strong, long-lasting result.

Herringbone tile patterns require precise planning to ensure symmetry. Start by measuring and marking the centre of your wall, then draw a plumb line down this point using a spirit level or chalk line. This line will act as your reference when laying the tiles and will help keep the pattern even across the entire surface.

To ensure the herringbone pattern is symmetrical, find the centre of your tile. Measure the halfway point on the short edge, then transfer that measurement to the long edge and mark it. These two points will help align the tile correctly with your centre line.

Before applying tile adhesive, it’s a good idea to do a dry lay of your tiles to plan your layout and reduce mistakes. Start by transferring your centre line onto a flat surface, such as an MDF board. This will serve as a guide while arranging the tiles.

Place the first tile at a 45-degree angle, ensuring that its centre lines up with your marked centre line. To keep it positioned accurately, use a square along the base of your board.

Once the first tile is set in place, position the second tile in the opposite direction, sliding it up against the lower edge of the first tile. This creates the classic herringbone pattern.

Any tile overhanging the edge of your board will need to be trimmed. Use a tile cutter or angle grinder to make clean, precise cuts. Continue following this pattern, laying each tile in the opposite direction, and trimming where necessary until the entire area is covered.

Rather than troweling adhesive directly onto the wall, a useful trick is to apply it to the back of each tile. This method helps keep your guide lines visible and ensures precise placement. Using a notched trowel, spread a thin, even layer of adhesive onto the back of the tile.

Now, align the first tile with your centre line and press it firmly into place. Once a few tiles have been set, begin applying adhesive directly onto the wall and continue laying the tiles, following your planned pattern. As you go, step back occasionally to check alignment and make any necessary adjustments to keep the pattern consistent.

Starting at the centre line ensures that the herringbone pattern is balanced and symmetrical across the surface. If you start tiling from one side or a corner, the pattern may become uneven, and you could end up with awkward, uneven cuts at the edges. By beginning at the centre, the design flows evenly outward, creating a professional, well-proportioned look.

After setting the first tiles along the centre line, continue laying tiles outward in both directions to maintain symmetry. Work in sections, applying tile adhesive to either the back of each tile or directly onto the wall as needed. Place each tile snugly against the previous one, following the herringbone pattern and ensuring they align correctly.

As you move further from the centre, regularly check that the tiles are sitting at a consistent 45-degree angle. Use tile spacers to maintain even gaps between the tiles for grouting later. If you notice any misalignment, adjust as you go to keep the pattern uniform. Continue working outward until you reach the edges of the space, where you’ll need to measure and cut tiles to fit.

Once the adhesive has fully dried, mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a grout float, apply the grout at a 45-degree angle to work it into the joints. Wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge before it sets to achieve a neat, professional finish.

Learn how to lay mosaic tiles.