If you are working on a home improvement or building project that involves working with tile, you may find yourself needing to cut the tile. If you own a tile cutter, this is a simple, straightforward process. If you don't have a tile cutter available, there are still ways to accomplish the task. These methods are effective for getting the job done if you only need to cut a few tiles.

Straight Cuts

Turn the tile over so that the back (the non-glazed side) is facing you. Measure how much you need to cut off and make a mark at each end of the tile. Using a ruler or straight edge and a pencil, draw a line between these two marks. Score the tile along the line. "Scoring" means making a cut along the line with a utility knife. The cut will not go all the way through the tile, but it will weaken the tile enough to snap it. Turn the tile over and place the scored line on the edge of a table or other hard surface so that the part you want to remove is suspended . Hold the tile firmly on the table and strike the suspended part of the tile with your palm to snap it.

Other Cuts

Notch the tile with a pair of tile nippers (or in a pinch, sturdy pliers) to make cuts for fitting around faucets, pipes and other non-linear objects. Measure the width and height of the hole you need, and draw the shape of the cut on the back of the tile with a pencil. Turn the tile over and Start at one side of the tile, notching a small bit of the tile of the time. To control the cut and keep from breaking the tile, use the corner of the nippers or pliers. Continue notching the tile until you achieve the desired cut.

Source:

This Old House: How to Cut Tile

AcmeDIY: How to Cut Tile