Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Q:

Why is the Becoming Tile method better?

A:

A number of reasons. Our software to convert an image into a tile mural uses proprietary advanced image processing methods derived from experience in the video equipment industry.

Our fabrication is done by humans that can spot any damaged tiles or errors in tile color.
Our process can use as many tile colors as needed for the best possible representation of the image in tile.

Q:

Why does it matter that Becoming Tile can use more colors?

A:

Whereas many of the robotic systems used by other companies are limited in the number of tile colors they can reach and use, our process can use as many colors of tile as are available from multiple manufacturers. In the Wing Lung Bank project we used 192 colors. Ask any fabricator using robots how many tile colors they can use, we’ve been told 24 to 40 by some.

For realistic representation of images it is important to use as many colors of tile as required and generally more colors improve the perceived quality.

Q:

What makes Becoming Tile gradients special?

A:

A simple gradient is a set of colors of tile that progress from one color range to another over a vertical or horizontal area.

Most companies offering gradients have a fixed set of color palettes with only one type of mix/overlap characteristics.

Becoming Tile’s unique and proprietary gradient software can control not only what colors are used, but where in the gradient each of the colors start and end, how much the colors overlap, how much of each color is used and what type of mixing algorithm is used to combine the colors in the gradient.

Q:

What is a shaped gradient?

A:

Any of the gradients that Becoming Tile’s software can create can also be ‘shaped’ by the contours of a grey-scale shaping image, whether that is as simple as a radial gradient or as complex as scales, waves, ripples, or other geometric pattern.

Q:

How are mosaic projects provided?

A:

Regardless of the type or size of the tiles used to compose the mosaic project they will be provided in roughly one square foot sheets, 12″x12″ with clear plastic tape on the face of the tile securing it for installation.

Each sheet is labeled with the row and column number of that sheet within the overal mosaic design so that any competent installer can install the sheets in order to successfully create the mosaic in the space where it is designed to go.

Q:

Does Becoming Tile install the project?

A:

Becoming Tile does not have installers on staff because projects are sold for installation all over the world and it is not cost effective for clients to pay for a installation team to travel to their site.

We can put you in touch with competent installers in your location, and any good tile installer will use the proper materials and techniques to successfully install the project.