All CROOKS products are made locally in the KZN Midlands, South Africa 🇿🇦 Crooks Concrete is an artisanal producer of Encaustic Tiles based on The Old Mushroom Farm in the KNZ Midlands. Modern encaustic tiles are cement tiles with coloured patterns integrated directly into the tile's body, rather than relying on glazes. This 3mm layer of design remains, even as the tile wears down over time. Crook
s Concrete specialises in crafting these encaustic cement tiles, adding timeless style to modern home goods. Manufacturing Process: How They're Made
Encaustic tiles are not fired in kilns like typical ceramic tiles, and use powdered pigment, rather than glaze for coloration. Their durability comes from a mixture of finely ground cement and coarser sand and cement. The coloured/patterned layer, about 2-3mm thick, is hydraulically pressed into the tile, forming an inseparable part of it. Handmade Artistry: Crafting Each Tile
Crafting encaustic cement tiles is a labour-intensive process done one tile at a time. The mineral pigments are poured into a stencil-like mould, followed by layers of a cement and sand mixture, and compressed using an electric hydraulic press. Once pressed, the tiles are soaked in water, then left to cure for 3-weeks. Historical Roots: Origins and Development
Encaustic tiles emerged in the mid-19th century, primarily seen in Spain. They later spread across the Mediterranean region, gaining popularity in Italy, France, Portugal, and North Africa. Crooks Concrete employs a traditional method that hasn’t changed much over the centuries, bringing this classic to Southern Africa. Embracing Uniqueness: Variations as Assets
Crafting by hand introduces subtle differences in each tile. Crooks Concrete celebrates these variations, emblematic of the manual production process, as signs of the artisan’s hand rather than as defects.
