Home DIY: Tiling Workshop

Do it yourself! Learn the skills and secrets of Home DIY  with this workshop, as part of our Woodwork courses in Sydney!

Ready to roll up your sleeves and give tiling a go? Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, refreshing your bathroom, or dreaming of a stylish splashback, this hands-on DIY Tiling workshop will give you the confidence and skills to tackle your own tiling projects.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll learn through live demonstrations and plenty of guided practice in a supportive environment. No experience needed—perfect for beginners!

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, you should be able to:

• Identify different tile types and tools needed for various tiling jobs.
• Prepare surfaces for tiling, including waterproofing and priming.
• Measure, plan, cut, and lay tiles accurately using adhesives and spacers.
• Grout and seal tiled surfaces with a professional finish.
• Avoid common mistakes and maintain your new tiled surfaces.

Course Content

Overview of Tiling Projects

• Learn about different types of tiling projects (backsplashes, walls, floors).
• Introduction to various tile types (ceramic, porcelain, mosaic) and their applications.
• Tools of the trade: trowels, tile cutters, levels, spacers and more.

Surface Preparation

• Preparing the substrate: cleaning, leveling, and applying primers.
• Surface types: drywall, cement board, plywood, concrete.
• Waterproofing and backer boards for wet areas.
Activity: Participants prepare a mock-up surface for tiling.

Laying the Tiles

• Tile layout: planning, measuring, and reference lines.
• Applying adhesive: correct technique with notched trowel.
• Tile placement: using spacers, ensuring even lines.
• Cutting tiles: manual cutter and wet saw.
Activity: Participants lay a row of tiles and cut as needed.

Grouting and Finishing Touches

• Choosing and mixing grout: sanded vs unsanded.
• Applying grout with a rubber float.
• Cleaning tiles and removing grout haze.
• Sealing the grout.
Activity: Participants grout, clean, and seal their tile section.

Troubleshooting and Tips for Success

• Common mistakes and how to avoid them.
• Tips for a professional finish.
• Maintaining tiled surfaces.

Final Review and Course Wrap-Up

• Q&A discussion of individual projects.
• Recap of workshop learnings.

Intended audience 

This workshop is designed for:

• Homeowners looking to renovate or refresh tiled areas.
• Renters who want to learn simple upgrades or repairs.
• DIY enthusiasts interested in gaining practical tiling skills.

No prior experience required. Suitable for ages 18+.

Course materials:

What to bring to class:

• PPE: face mask and safety goggles (provided or bring your own)
• Lunch or snacks (cafés nearby)
• Wear old clothes, closed shoes, and tie back long hair
• Avoid jewellery and loose accessories

Materials Provided

All tiling tools and materials are provided by The Bower. You'll get hands-on experience using real tools in a safe and supportive setting.

Course venue

The Bower Reuse & Repair Centre Workshop

• Summer Hill: 7 Prospect Road, Summer Hill NSW 2131

• Redfern: 107 Redfern St, Redfern NSW 2016

  The entrance to the Bower workshop is at the rear of 107 Redfern Street and is opposite no. 23 Turner Street. You will see a hand-painted sign "The Bower Woodworks". If the door is locked, please press the doorbell on the left-hand side of the garage door. Please note, the doors for the venue at the rear will be open and not the front. If you have trouble locating the entrance or encounter any emergencies, please contact the workshop manager at 0422 840 471.

  Public transport is the best way to get to the workshop space. The space is located close to Redfern Train Station, a local transport hub.

  Most nearby parking is 2-hour-timed (including some paid parking on Redfern St) though it is untimed after 8 pm. Untimed parking is available on Pitt St between Phillip and Wellington St.Accessibility

Accessibility

We welcome learners of all abilities. Let us know your accessibility needs when enrolling so we can make arrangements in advance.