I've just had tiny tiles installed and they look a little like a roller coaster ride. I want to be sure that I'm not being picayune (generally, I can overlook a lot!) Mine were installed over a plywood luan and I was concerned it would not be an adequate substrate and my fears (pooh poohed by the contractor) may be justified. But it would help me to see other tiny tile (mine are glass) BS. Also, I don't like the caulk that was used. Thanks to this very unique group of kitchen lovers!!!!! p.s. I'll try to post pics after someone pries this bottle of wine from my li'l mitts.

In general, the 3x6 staggered subway look may be a bit old, but I think that your two choices, 3x12 and 6x12, are both up-to-date and less common. Larger tiles have a more distinctive look and provide a clean, modern aesthetic. I think the stacked look or the brick pattern would both look great. In general the large size plus the stacked look will give you a great contemporary feel. You can check out the glass tile oasis website for some cool layout ideas. That’s where I ordered my glass bathroom backsplash tile and achieved that modern look by stacking them (It was the Sea Glass Tile Series). If you hate cleaning your bathroom, use larger slabs, since they making cleaning much easier. Smaller tiles also create an optical illusion and make the room seem much larger. In your case, where you are using it for the backsplash only, I wouldn’t say that one size is more associated with bathroom décor over the other. Hope this helps!

Many glass manufacturers do not allow the use of epoxy grout with their product. You must contact the manufacturer for this information. If there are no instructions in the box also inquire as to which setting material is called for. Some glass may require mastic instead of mortar. While you have them on the line ask about thermal shock rating. You have a large format glass tile (9 square inches is large format for glass) If you have a cook top, especially gas simply boiling a pot of water on the back burner could crack the glass tiles due to thermal expansion. Just a few things the DIY shows and box stores won't mention. Was any of this mentioned to you at your point of purchase? Always test grout first to verify it will not scratch the glass. Other grout manufacturers such as Ardex, Bostik, Tec should be considered also. Some make grout specifically for glass. I do not recommend glass tile installation for a DIY'er. or a GC/ remodeler. There is a lot more to it that I did not mention. Proper cutting, setting, polishing etc. If you think hiring a professional is expensive wait until you see the cost of hiring a amateur. Good luck with your project.

Once you touch it you own it. 4x16 is a large tile for a backsplash. If you have a cooktop be aware simply boiling a pot of water on the back burner can crack the glass due to thermal shock but I'm sure whomever sold you the glass warned you:)