More labor, higher price. If they have to cut every tile then that's more labor.

While cheaper tile should make the job a bit less expensive, it isn't the major cost. Prep work to ensure the floor is flat, flat, flat, strong and stable, underlayment, etc. still has to be done regardless of the tile price. Additionally, a more complicated or time-consuming pattern will cost more regardless of tile price.

Time is money.

Thanks! hmm. So, essentially, you all think it will cost more than 10 dollars to have someone cut the four corners off a single tile and lay it diagonally? Because most everything else about the job will be the same, whether I go with more expensive tile or less expensive tile.

Ok. Thank you - I understand. I just wanted to make sure you understood how I was looking at it as far as the cost difference. I knew that it wasn't as easy as "have someone cut four corners off." I've done enough diy to know nothing is that easy.

There is also craftsmanship. Someone who does high-quality work can demand a higher price. Not all contractors are created equal when it comes to knowledge, skill, talent and common sense.

My neighbor Jim hired a tile guy. After I saw his initial work with no spacers I thought "Well, Jim has either hired the Jesus of tile or the worst hack I've ever seen."

He was Jesus. Perfect tile, no lippage, perfect spacing by eye alone (diagonal pattern), amazing. If I had a tile job, I would call him and say "I saw Jim's job. Bill me please." I would not insult this artist by asking for a bid. I would be grateful he graced my job.

Yeah. I don't know anyone like that, unfortunately.... When we do this bathroom, I'll have a general contractor that we trust and I'll probably just go on his recommendation. I do understand the craftsmanship of it, though. We've had tile work done that doesn't live up to that name.

A mosaic basketweave on a mesh is not an easy job either. TIles on the mesh are never spaced properly or they shift. Each mesh section needs to be placed correctly or you will end up with a checker board effect.

I would not expect anyone to remove and reinstall tiles on mesh to achieve perfect placement other than the random out-of-whack tile here and there. The cost to do so would be prohibitive. IMO, choosing this type of tile means that you are accepting of these irregularities. Placing the sheets correctly, that's another story. :-)

jelly, but for a good installation some of the tiles on the mesh do need to be removed and/or adjusted. I'm happy to pay a premium for that kind of tile installer, the ones that take pride in doing the best work, even when a product isn't perfect.

"I'm happy to pay a premium"

There you have it. Even installers who take pride in their work are not going to work for free.

Thank you all for your input. I really like the basketweave, and I'm leaning toward that on the floors, especially now that I know the work that goes into laying tiles diagonally, with accent tiles on the corners.