The appropriate use of Talavera tile results from comprehending its specific qualities, namely:

1. Handmade and thus no two pieces are exactly alike in both design and dimension and, quite often, not perfectly flat.
2. Glazed and thus resistant to both wear and moisture penetration but can be slippery when wet.
3. Colorful in design but diminutive in size with typical sizes being in the 4" x 4" to 6" x 6" range.
4. Slightly crazed surface glazing, giving it a "faceted" look under the right lighting conditions but also rendering it not completely "waterproof"
5. Designs and colors are bold and definite and thus do not tend toward pastels or subtle edge-blending of softer glaze colors
6. Individual tile designs that, when joined together, form a new and larger design pattern.

These qualities suggest specific usage, especially in architectural styles that would be considered more "Spanish", "Mediterranean", or "Latin American". Stair risers, door and window surrounds, countertops and splashes, shower walls, accent bands, and wail panels are just some of the many uses to which this tile can be put that will enhance the overall character of the buildings in which they are used.