Tile projects can totally transform the look and feel of a space. However, perfectly cutting those tiles to fit your design can be tricky business. That’s why having the right tile cutter is so important for any tile job. In this buying guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Project Source tile cutters to decide if this affordable tool is the right choice for your next tiling project.

What is a Project Source Tile Cutter?

A Project Source tile cutter is a basic manual tile cutting tool sold exclusively at Lowe’s home improvement stores. This lightweight tile cutter features a score and snap design to cut through tiles up to 13 inches long. It has a compact size of just 15 x 10 inches, making storage under a cabinet or in a closet quite easy.

The Project Source tile cutter uses a tungsten carbide cutting wheel and aluminum alloy base for durability. The cutting wheel can be replaced as needed. It also has rubber feet to keep the tile cutter from sliding around on smooth surfaces. Adjustable guide rails ensure straight cuts. An optional stand is also available to bring the tile cutter up to a more comfortable standing height.

Overall, the Project Source tile cutter provides a very affordable way for DIYers to cut common types of tile for flooring, kitchen backsplashes, and other projects. While it lacks advanced features of professional tile cutters, its simple design and low price make it a practical choice for homeowners.

How Much Does a Project Source Tile Cutter Cost?

The standard Project Source tile cutter costs between $25 and $35 at Lowe’s. The optional tile cutter stand is sold separately for around $20.

Considering that high-end electric tile saws can cost over $300, the Project Source tile cutter is an extremely budget-friendly option. Keep in mind though that you get what you pay for. This basic manual tile cutter is best suited for people who only have light duty tile cutting needs. Professionals and avid DIYers may prefer investing in a more powerful tile cutting tool.

Where Can I Buy a Project Source Tile Cutter?

Since Project Source tools are exclusive to Lowe’s, this is the only place you can purchase this tile cutter. You can browse and buy the Project Source tile cutter at your local Lowe’s store or order online for delivery or in-store pickup.

Lowe’s frequently runs promotions on Project Source tools, so keep an eye out for potential sales around major holidays. Purchasing a tile cutter during an existing sale can help you save even more on this budget buy.

How Do I Use a Project Source Tile Cutter?

Using a Project Source tile cutter takes just a few easy steps:

1. Place the tile on the tile cutter’s base against the backstop. Slide the tile left or right until the cutting wheel lines up with your desired cut line.
2. Position the guide rail so it runs parallel along the cut line. Lock the guide rail in place. This ensures your cut stays straight.
3. Apply firm downward pressure as you run the cutting wheel across the tile. Let the wheel do the work.
4. Once scored, press down on the arms of the tile cutter to snap the tile cleanly along the scored line.
5. For angled cuts, loosen the guide rail and tilt the base to your desired angle. Align the cutting wheel and guide rail along the angle line before scoring and snapping the tile.

Be sure to make a few practice cuts on scrap tile before moving on to your actual workpieces. With a few simple techniques, you’ll be making professional cuts effortlessly.

What Types of Tiles Can a Project Source Tile Cutter Cut?

The Project Source tile cutter can handle most common types of floor and wall tile up to 13 inches long including:

• Ceramic – Glazed and unglazed ceramic tiles are no problem for this cutter. The carbide cutting wheel easily scores through the softer ceramic material.
• Porcelain – Porcelain tiles are tougher than ceramics, but the Project Source cutter can manage basic straight cuts in small-size porcelain tiles. Cutting porcelain does require applying firm pressure.
• Natural Stone – Softer natural stones like marble and limestone can be cut with the Project Source tile cutter. Pass on trying to cut harder granites and other dense stones though.
• Glass – Straight cuts are achievable in smooth glass tiles. The cutter may chip more textured glass pieces.

Overall, stick with cutting regular thickness ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles. Specialty tiles may require a more heavy-duty wet saw.

What is the Maximum Tile Size a Project Source Tile Cutter Can Handle?

The Project Source tile cutter maxes out at cutting 13 inch tiles. This allows you to work with common 12 inch floor tiles and smaller mosaic sheets.

Larger format tiles up to 18 or 24 inches square are better left to professional tile saws. The Project Source cutter’s small size and limited cutting force make cleanly cutting oversized tiles difficult.

If your tile project only includes standard 12 inch tile sizes or smaller, then the Project Source cutter has the cutting capacity you need. But for larger tiles, invest in a more robust tile saw.

Is the Project Source Tile Cutter Suitable for Ceramic Tiles?

Absolutely! In fact, the Project Source tile cutter is ideal for handling all sorts of ceramic wall and floor tiles, which are relatively soft and easy to cut materials.

Both glazed and unglazed ceramic tiles up to 13 inches can be cut quickly and cleanly. The tungsten carbide wheel slices right through ceramic with minimal wear. Just apply firm, even pressure as you score the tile.

About the only ceramic tile that could pose an issue is heavily textured or extremely thick ceramic. But for regular ceramic tile installations, you can feel confident using a Project Source cutter.

Can I Use a Project Source Tile Cutter for Porcelain Tiles?

You can cut porcelain tiles on a Project Source tile cutter, but with a few limitations. First, only cut small-format porcelain tiles up to the 13 inch max length. Large porcelain slabs require a professional tile saw.

Second, expect to apply very firm pressure when scoring porcelain’s dense, hard surface. Take light passes over the tile instead of trying to cut all the way through in one pass. This prevents excessive wear on the cutting wheel.

The tile may also chip slightly on the top edge. Test cuts on scrap porcelain pieces allow you to check the cutting results before working on the final tiles. For best results, a wet saw is recommended for porcelain, but the Project Source cutter can work in a pinch.

How Accurate is the Project Source Tile Cutter?

With proper use, the Project Source tile cutter provides reasonable accuracy for most DIYers’ needs. The adjustable guide rail ensures straight cuts within 1/16 of an inch when carefully aligned.

Minor variations wider or narrower than the guide can happen if you don’t apply consistent scoring pressure. Cutting too aggressively can cause chipping while cutting too lightly leads to curved cuts. But with a steady, firm scoring motion, cuts are quite accurate.

You may notice slightly greater inaccuracies when making angled miter cuts vs. straight cuts. But again, taking it slow and steady while scoring delivers the best results. Overall, the Project Source cutter offers sufficient precision for basic DIY tiling jobs.

Does the Project Source Tile Cutter Come with a Warranty?

Yes, Project Source provides a limited 1-year warranty covering manufacturer defects and workmanship issues. Normal wear from cutting abrasive tile materials would not fall under the warranty.

Register your warranty by emailing a copy of your receipt to Project Source customer support. Make sure to keep your purchase receipt in case you need to file a warranty claim for a defective or damaged component.

Contact Project Source customer service for troubleshooting help before attempting to return a malfunctioning tile cutter to the store. They can walk you through solutions or warranty repair/replacement if a valid issue is confirmed.

How Does the Project Source Tile Cutter Compare to Other Brands?

Here’s how the Project Source tile cutter stacks up against other entry-level brands like QEP and Ryobi:

• Good value at $25-$35 price range
• Compact size takes up minimal storage space
• Suitable for basic ceramic and small porcelain tiles
• Limited to only straight cuts or simple 45° miter cuts
• No angle adjustment scale for precision angled cuts
• Maximum tile length capacity of 13 inches
• Manual score and snap only – no electric cutting capability

More expensive tile cutter models from QEP, MK Diamond, DeWalt, and others offer greater versatility with angle guide scales, tile length capacity over 18+ inches, electric cutting for porcelain, and cutting force control.

The Project Source cutter makes sacrifices on features to meet the affordable price point. But for a starter tile cutter, it certainly gets the job done for small ceramic tile projects.

Is the Project Source Tile Cutter Easy to Use for Beginners?

The Project Source tile cutter is designed to be extremely user-friendly, even for total DIY beginners. The basic score and snap operation couldn’t be more straightforward.

Helpful features like the adjustable guide, rubber feet, and compact size also make the learning curve quite gentle. With just a few practice cuts on old tiles, you can become comfortable using this cutter.

Just be sure to follow the included instructions to properly align and cut tiles. Applying consistent downward pressure while scoring takes a little technique, but you get the hang of it quickly. Overall, the Project Source cutter is one of the easiest manual tile cutters for beginners to pick up and use right away.

What are the Features of the Project Source Tile Cutter?

Key features of the Project Source tile cutter include:

• Tungsten carbide cutting wheel – Scores through tile glazes and natural stone without excessive wear
• Aluminum alloy base – Provides a sturdy, stable cutting platform
• Rubber feet – Helps keep cutter firmly in position on work surface during use
• Adjustable guide rail – Ensures straight cuts by aligning parallel with cutting line
• Easy snap action – Springs help break tile cleanly after scoring
• Compact size – Takes up minimal storage space at just 15 x 10 inches
• Lightweight – Weighs under 5 lbs for easy portability around jobsite

While it lacks some features found in high-end tile cutters, the Project Source model provides everything needed for basic straight and angled tile cutting.

How Durable is the Project Source Tile Cutter?

The Project Source tile cutter is built primarily from aluminum alloy and reinforced plastic. While not industrial grade, the materials are reasonably sturdy for home use. The metal base provides a solid, skid-resistant cutting platform.

With proper care and maintenance, the cutter should provide reliable service for small tile jobs. But it’s not made for all-day, heavy use that professionals require. Extended cutting of thick porcelain or natural stone tiles can accelerate wear too.

Replacing the cutting wheel annually helps maintain scoring performance. Avoid dropping or harsh impacts that can bend components. Overall, light to moderate use allows this budget-friendly tile cutter to keep running smoothly. Just work within its capabilities and handle it with care.

Are Replacement Parts Available for the Project Source Tile Cutter?

Luckily, the most critical replacement part for a tile cutter – the cutting wheel – is available for the Project Source model. Replacing a worn cutting wheel at least yearly is important to keep cuts crisp and prevent slipping.

Genuine Project Source replacement wheels specially designed for this cutter are around $10 at Lowe’s. Knock-off wheels may not align and score properly. The wheels switch out easily by removing one retaining nut.

Other parts like guide rails, scoring handles, and base components are not individually replaceable. So protecting those original parts from damage helps increase the cutter’s usable lifespan. But you can keep your Project Source cutter rolling with annual $10 wheel changes.

How to Maintain a Project Source Tile Cutter

Performing simple maintenance makes a big difference in getting the longest life out of a Project Source tile cutter:

• Change the cutting wheel yearly – Keep cuts crisp by installing fresh wheels before they wear too dull.
• Clean off tile dust and debris – Prevent buildup that can impede smooth scoring.
• Check for loose parts – Tighten any loose screws or nuts that could affect cutting accuracy.
• Lubricate guide rails – Use a silicone spray to keep the guide gliding smoothly and prevent sticking.
• Avoid impacts – Dropping the cutter can bend key components like the base and rail.
• Keep dry – Don’t expose to rain or wet conditions that could rust metal parts.
• Store properly – Keep the tile cutter in a clean, dry location away from dirt and moisture.

With regular maintenance and avoiding damage, a Project Source tile cutter can deliver years of trouble-free service for DIYers.

Does the Project Source Tile Cutter Require Any Special Tools?

The good news is you don’t need any special tools beyond what’s included to start using the Project Source tile cutter. The only tool needed for assembly is a Phillips screwdriver to attach the optional stand.

For maintenance, you may want a 7mm hex wrench to remove the cutting wheel retaining nut when changing wheels. Needle nose pliers allow getting a firm grip on the nut if you don’t have the exact size wrench. An allen wrench set covers you for any screws.

A silicone spray lubricant helps keep the guide rails sliding smoothly but isn’t required. Replacing the cutting wheel yearly is the main maintenance task. So rest assured this user-friendly tile cutter doesn’t demand any specialized tools or maintenance products.

Are There Reviews for the Project Source Tile Cutter?

As an affordable Lowe’s exclusive brand, the Project Source tile cutter hasn’t been widely reviewed across major home improvement websites. However, you can find customer reviews on the Lowe’s website with an average 4.3 star rating from over 200 owners.

The most common feedback is that the Project Source cutter works well for smaller ceramic wall tiles and mosaics. Customers warn that attempting to cut thicker natural stone or porcelain tiles takes quite a bit of effort and may produce chipped edges.

Many reviewers mention liking the compact size for storage. There are some reports of scoring wheels loosening over time, underscoring the need to check bolts occasionally. Overall, user ratings confirm this budget tile cutter gets the job done on lighter tile cutting tasks.

Can the Project Source Tile Cutter Make Angled Cuts?

The Project Source cutter allows you to make simple 45 degree mitered cuts in tiles by tilting the scoring platform. A 45 degree notch molded into the base lets you accurately align the tile at the desired angle.

However, this tile cutter lacks an adjustable miter scale for dialing in exact angle measurements. The 45 degree notch is the only angle option. For cutting customized angles like 22.5 degrees or specialty edge shapes, a more advanced tile cutter with an angle guide is recommended.

If you only need the occasional 45 degree miter for a tile project, the Project Source model can certainly handle it. But don’t expect cutting flexibility beyond square cuts or 45’s. An inexpensive angle grinder with a tile blade adds angle cutting capability too.

What Should I Consider Before Buying a Project Source Tile Cutter?

Here are the key considerations when deciding if a Project Source tile cutter fits your needs:

• What types of tiles will you be cutting – smaller or oversized formats? Hard natural stones? Thick specialty tiles?
• Do you need any angled cuts beyond 45 degrees for your project?
• How often will you use the tile cutter? For light hobby use or heavy-duty cutting?
• Do you need portability to move the tile cutter between jobsites or will it stay in one location?
• What is your budget for a tile cutting tool?
• Do you have realistic expectations for a $30 tile cutter’s abilities and limitations?

Weigh your tile materials, cutting needs, and budget. A Project Source tile cutter works great for small ceramic floor or wall tiles cut occasionally by DIYers. But porcelain, heavy tile usage, and complex cuts call for stepping up to a more capable tile saw. Make an informed choice and this compact cutter can prove very handy in your tool arsenal.

The Final Cut on Project Source Tile Cutters

While limited in power and versatility compared to high-end tile saws, the affordable Project Source tile cutter excels at no-frills straight and 45-degree miter cutting for small ceramic wall and floor tiles. DIYers on a budget appreciate the low price, compact storage size, and user-friendly operation that makes tile projects accessible. Just be realistic about the cutting capabilities for harder tiles. For light ceramic tile work, this basic but handy tile cutting tool gets the job done with value to spare.