Abstract: A process for laying small decorative tiles on a surface includes the use of a lightweight plastic matrix having ridges of a desired pattern which are used to locate and space the tiles of different shapes in the desired locations. Tiles of the desired color and shape are placed face down on the matrix. A perforated paper matrix having an adhesive layer is then placed over the exposed back sides of the tiles to maintain their relative positions. The surface to be tiled is then coated with thinset adhesive and the tile strip with the matrix is removed and placed against the surface. Several such tile strips may be placed side-by-side or in a desired arrangement on the surface after which grout is applied between the tiles in a well known manner. The process for producing the paper matrix is also described.