Business Details
40 Years
experience
Custom Handcrafted Tiles & Mosaics in Tucson
Founded in 1986 by artist Susan Gamble, Santa Theresa Tile Works Tile Works has established itself as a premier creator of handcrafted tile and mosaic art that embodies the vibrant spirit of Tucsons decorative style. Our studio produces distinctive, high-fired tiles and mosaics designed for both functional and artistic applications, serving residential, commercial, and public spaces nationwide. Located in the Historic Warehouse Arts District, our showroom and workshop welcome visitors to explore our extensive tile collections, engage in hands-on projects, and collaborate with our skilled artists on custom designs. All proceeds from our operations directly fund Imago Dei Middle School, a tuition-free private school for low-income students in downtown Tucson. Since 2016, our transition to a nonprofit model has deepened our commitment to community enrichment through art and education.Our team of experienced artisans, including master tile makers and educators, brings decades of expertise to every project. We specialize in creating durable, weather-resistant installations for both indoor and outdoor environments, from kitchen backsplashes to large-scale public art. Our educational programs, including workshops and tile-making classes, empower individuals to explore their creativity while mastering professional techniques. Testimonials from our community highlight the transformative impact of our work, both through our artistic contributions and our support for underserved youth. By blending artistic excellence with social responsibility, we continue to build a legacy of beauty and opportunity that strengthens our community.
Services
Tile Making Workshops
Custom Mosaics
Gift Shop
Art Installations
Donor Recognition Pieces
Tile Packs for Sale
Student Training Programs
Public Art Projects
Online Tile Store
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- We offer over 35 years of tile-making expertise.
- Our custom designs create lasting art for any space.
- All proceeds directly support education for low-income students.
- We provide hands-on workshops for all skill levels.
- Our team includes master artists with diverse specialties.
What people say
Creative workshops
Durable installations
Community-focused
Expert craftsmanship
Educational value
Services
Tile Making Workshops
Our hands-on workshops teach tile-making techniques to all skill levels. Participants learn clay preparation, glazing, and firing processes. No prior experience required, with classes available for individuals and groups.
Custom Mosaics
We create bespoke mosaic art for residential and commercial spaces. Using high-fired tiles, our team designs durable, weather-resistant installations tailored to client specifications, from backsplashes to public art pieces.
Donor Recognition Pieces
Our studio crafts personalized donor recognition tiles and plaques for organizations. These custom pieces honor contributions while serving as lasting artistic elements in institutional spaces.
Public Art Projects
We design and install large-scale public art projects nationwide. Our collaborative process involves community input to create meaningful, enduring installations that enhance urban environments.
Student Training Programs
Local students gain practical skills through our mentorship initiatives. Participants assist with tile production and learn business operations while supporting educational programs at Imago Dei Middle School.
People
Bob
Master Ceramist
With over 50 years of ceramics experience, Bob designs custom orders and applies his expertise in commercial dishware design to our tile production.
Erinn
Lead Artist
Specializing in commemorative pieces, Erinn creates stock tiles and custom commissions while maintaining an active painting studio practice.
Carrie
Floral Tile Designer
Former biology teacher Carrie produces intricate floral tile designs and manages our Etsy shop while teaching students weekly workshops.
Holly
Programming Director
As a Tucson native, Holly develops educational programs that connect our tile-making legacy with community engagement initiatives.
Maddie
Tile Instructor
Transitioning from volunteer to staff member, Maddie teaches tile techniques to students and assists with production across all stages.
Questions
How do purchases support Imago Dei Middle School?
All proceeds from our tile sales and workshops fund scholarships, meals, and educational programs at Imago Dei Middle School for low-income students.
Can I create a custom mosaic without prior experience?
Yes! No experience is needed. Our staff guides you through designing and assembling mosaics during open studio hours or private workshops.
What tile-making classes are available?
We offer week-long intensive courses ($800) covering tile production from clay to firing, and abbreviated evening classes ($525) for basic techniques.
Are group workshops available?
Yes. We host private group sessions for team-building events or celebrations, with flexible scheduling for weekends and evenings.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Tucson, AZ, we ship tile packs nationwide and create custom installations across the United States.
Reviews (7)
Debbie Uthe
May 25, 2022
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Such a great selection of tiles and things to mosaic. I just booked a few hours for 4 of my Girlfriends cant wait!
Olivia N. Tucson
Mar 22, 2022
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This is the best place in Tucson for tile murals and mosaics. They've been here for 40 years and their work is everywhere in the city!
Tina Encinas
Dec 17, 2021
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First time visit here and what an experience. It is a place I will be going back to visit weekly. Every one is super nice and very helpful.
L. Menard
Oct 23, 2021
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Best tile shop in the country! Huge selection plus custom pieces available, as well. Staff are super friendly and helpful.
BryanwithaY
May 20, 2021
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I know your wondering what to do this weekend I too often find myself wondering what to do then I remember this hidden. Imagine going out on the town with you and your loved one Or a group of your closest friends or family members. Everything can go wrong if not planned correctly I love this area in general because of how much there is to do The way they plan events down will make sure your night goes amazing. Timely and efficient you gotta love it!
It's priced fair and inexpensive so anyone on a budget can come out and have a great night and you know that's hard to do with no money. It's so spectacular the lights the scenery the environment I love it! Really good work from this business and how they contribute to the community There is seriously so many places. More importantly when you go in the staff is so friendly and willing to help. You know I would not pass this place by it's hidden but worth exploring and I promise you'll have plenty of stories to share on social media. The amount of things to photograph around here will make your head spin if you have even the slightest ability you'll find inspiration surely.
It's priced fair and inexpensive so anyone on a budget can come out and have a great night and you know that's hard to do with no money. It's so spectacular the lights the scenery the environment I love it! Really good work from this business and how they contribute to the community There is seriously so many places. More importantly when you go in the staff is so friendly and willing to help. You know I would not pass this place by it's hidden but worth exploring and I promise you'll have plenty of stories to share on social media. The amount of things to photograph around here will make your head spin if you have even the slightest ability you'll find inspiration surely.
Debbie Uthe
Dec 01, 2020
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OMG the most awesome place. Something for everyone and you don't need to be an artist. My friend and I had a blast and will be back.
Laurie Rogers
Jan 18, 2019
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Wonderful place to let your inner artist out! Donna, Lynnie and Bob are amazing. I took their 6 day intensive tile making class and had the best vacation of my life. They walk you through the entire process on how to create your own tile for mosaic patterns. Glazing is gone over and fine detailing. If you want to stop in and pick your own already made pieces that's an option as well.
