Ann Sacks

June 18, 2009

Organic and textural, Ann Sacks’
new Blake Studios tile collection is an attention-grabber. Offered in
three designs—Nautilus, Botanical and Dahlia—the tiles can be applied
vertically or horizontally to create dramatic murals or used as accent
pieces on a backsplash or fireplace surround. The Blake Studios pieces
are handmade using the Italian Old-World technique of sgraffito
carving, which means “to scratch.” To achieve its 3D surface, the clay
is draped over spacers, wet clay is then brushed onto white porcelain
clay and when almost dry, the design is carved in relief. The 11-in. x
11-in. tiles should be specified for indoor installations and are
available in 18 colors.