To make each tile the picture is first drawn onto it and the raised line work, or tube lining, is then applied by hand. The artist then applies the colours in layers before the tile is fired in a kiln at temperatures of about 1000 Celsius for 24 hours, The very high temperatures give the tiles their vibrant enamel glaze colours and high gloss finish. As each tile is hand painted no two are identical

The advantage of these tiles is that they do not fade in sunlight, nor affected by moisture in the air so they are ideal in conservatories, kitchens, bathrooms and any other room in the home.

Fiesta Collectables use the work of British and internationally known artists under licence. Many tiles have the signature of the artist reproduced in the bottom corner as recognition of their artwork and for each tile produced the artist receives a royalty payment.

Many of the tiles produced by Benaya are the work of Michael Menashy son of the company owner.

The tiles should be handled with care and cleaned with a damp cloth. As with all ceramics crazing can happen at different stages of the tile’s life and master crafts people often liken this to wrinkles in people.

Each of the smaller tiles, 4 and 8 inch square, in both the Fiesta and Benaya ranges are fixed to a wooden backing with a keyhole for hanging and a plinth if you wish to stand it upright.

The larger sized tiles come with a felted back and with either one or two strong hooks for hanging on the wall. Some larger Benaya tiles also have a felted pull out stand to enable them to be stood upright.