Does your next project include installing ceramic wall tile? That's a job many homeowners leave to the professionals.
But really there's no reason a handy person can't tackle tile installation.
The real advantage a professional tile setter has is speed.
Speed is money to a pro.
But with the right guidance am amateur can do a top notch job.
It just takes a bit longer.
Probably the key to success for an amateur tile setter is getting the job planned and started right.
You must first gather all your tools and materials .
You'll need to do some calculating to get the right number of tiles and the correct grout and adhesives plus your cutting tools and trowels.
That's all easy enough.
The real hurdle to laying tile is getting started right.
Here's the way to start installing tile:

• Using a level along the base of the wall, find the lowest point,
• Set a tile on the base at the lowest point,
• Measure two grout line widths above the tile,
• Make a horizontal line at that height using a square and a straight edge,
• Extend the line the length of the wall.
  

Now nail a board along that line as a guide for the first run of tiles.
Next lay out some dry tiles along your guide board to check the spacing of the tiles.
You'll want about the same size end tiles on both ends.
Getting those guide lines right and laying the first pieces is the key to installing ceramic wall tile.
Now there are the challenges of cutting the tiles, getting the spacing right and finishing corners.
But, there's not a part of tile installation you can't master.