Create Memorable Keepsakes, Awards, Milestone Tiles & Artist Tiles for Museums and Gift Shops
Motawi Tileworks specializes in crafting custom commemorative tiles for universities, businesses, nonprofits, and special events. Available in either polychrome art tile or single-glaze relief tile, our commemorative pieces are perfect for:
- Graduation gifts, awards & honor tiles
- Weddings, anniversaries & special occasions
- Campus milestones & donor recognition
- Wineries, corporate events & museum fundraisers
- Alumni reunions & university giving
- Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, quinceañeras & Sweet 16 celebrations
- Business anniversaries & leadership retirements
- Restaurant openings & hospitality branding
- Custom gifts for clients, executives & team members
- Memorials & commemorative installations
Minimum orders begin at 100 tiles, and typical production time is about six months—custom artistry takes time, and we want your milestone to be perfect.
✨ Why Choose Motawi Commemorative Tiles?
- Handcrafted Quality: Each tile is made in our Ann Arbor studio using Motawi’s signature ceramic process—carving, rubber mold creation, pressing, hand glazing, and kiln firing, all overseen by experienced artisans
- Two Distinct Styles:
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- Polychrome Art Tile: Hand‑painted, richly colored, and full of life
- Relief Tile: Monochrome sculptural tiles that let form shine through
- Proven Expertise: We already create commemorative tiles for institutions like the University of Michigan—and now, we’re inviting artists, designers, and cultural organizations to turn their artwork into souvenir tiles for gift shops and exhibitions.
- Creative Collaboration: We work closely with each client to translate their vision into tile—from refining artwork and adapting it for Cuenca-style glazing to choosing the perfect palette. Our design team makes sure your commemorative piece is not only beautiful, but truly yours.
🔧 Made-to-Order Process & Pricing
How it Works:
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- You provide your artwork or concept + desired quantity.
- We send a detailed quote (artwork, mold setup, tile production).
- Upon approval, we create your artwork mockup.
- We produce a sample prototype tile.
- After your approval and a 50% production deposit, we press, glaze, fire & ship
Production Time: ~6 months from artwork approval.
Minimum Order: 100 tiles
Pricing: Varies based on tile size, complexity, and finish—typically from a few thousand dollars for small monochrome runs, up to $10K+ for larger, multicolor installations.
🎁 Enhance with Premium Add-Ons
Take your commemorative project to the next level with professional presentation options:
- Custom Oak Frames – Perfect for awards or recognition pieces
- Elegant Easels – Great for display at events or public spaces
- Deluxe Gift Boxes – Ideal for presentation or retail gifting
- Custom Inscribed Backs – (See "Villarrica" example below with customized newlywed names and wedding date)
Contact our team for pricing and advice on curated presentation bundles.
📞 Ready to Commission Your Custom Tiles?
Let’s work together to craft something meaningful. Contact us with your project details:
- Email: commemoratives@motawi.com
- Phone: (734) 213‑0017
We’d love to help you celebrate, honor, and commemorate with beauty and craftsmanship that last.
⚙️ About Motawi Tileworks
Founded in 1992 by Nawal Motawi and based in Ann Arbor, MI, Motawi Tileworks is renowned for its handcrafted studio-quality ceramic tiles inspired by nature, art, and architecture. Each tile—whether a licensed art series or a custom commission—is made entirely in-house, with care, precision, and heart.
