Mosaics

Mosaics – the basics!

The basics of mosaic design are very easy, if you’re trying this for the first time then our mosaic kits contain everything you need to get you started!

It’s a three layer process: an adhesive layer, followed by tiles, followed by grout.

However, the type of adhesive and grout used will depend on a few different factors, i.e. whether the mosaic is for outdoor use, the type of base/tiles being used, the colour and texture of the grout required for a particular design.

ADHESIVE

CEMENT MORTAR MIX
There are no firm and fast rules to mixing cement and techniques will vary from one mosaic artist to the next. As a starting block the following is a tried and tested mixture. Mix three parts of sand to one part of cement mortar. Once the dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed, heap into a 'molehill' shape and create a well in the centre. Slowly pour into the well a small amount of water and using an old spoon or trowel mix from the centre outwards. The cement mix should always be firm. If any water is visible after mixing, too much has been added and the bonding properties weakened. To strengthen the cement mixture you may wish to add PVA adhesive to the water in a ratio of three parts PVA to one part water. This is an advantage to designs on a vertical base or those using added mosaic materials such as pebbles, for example. Leave the cement to cure for approximately three days before grouting.

READY MIXED TILE CEMENT

As a quick and easy alternative to cement mortar, ready mixed tile cement is especially suitable for smaller projects. Apply the tile cement to the base in a layer approximately 3-4mm deep. Firmly press the tiles into the cement and leave to dry for approximately 24 hours before grouting. It is advisable to only apply a small amount of tile cement at a time when working on a large mosaic design. This is because the cement starts to set within 20 minutes of application.

TILES

It helps to draw out designs first, mapping out colour using coloured pens/pencils. This will help you actually put your design into practice.

Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying pieces of tile.

Use tile nippers to cut down the tiles for small areas.

Small pieces may be easier to pick up and place using tweezers. Original touches can be added to your work by interspersing mosaic tiles with broken pieces of coloured or patterned pottery, mirror, pebbles and shells. Recycled items are great to use for designs!

GROUT

Grouting is a creamy substance that is pushed into the crevices between tiles to give a smooth surface. Grout is mixed to a smooth 'putty' like texture with a ratio of three parts grout to one part water. Use a squeegee to evenly spread the grouting across your design, ensuring it is pushed into every gap. Once you have enough grout around your tiles, gently wipe any excess using a damp sponge. Keep rinsing the sponge in clean water, as it will easily become clogged with grout!

'REVERSE' METHOD

An alternative method of applying mosaics is to use the reverse method. This is particularly suitable when doing mosaic designs using tiles which vary in thickness.

Draw your mosaic design onto a piece of paper such as brown kraft/wrapping paper. Using a water-soluble glue such as wash away PVA and stick the tiles face down, directly onto the paper. Once the glue is dry and your design is complete cover the base to be worked on in cement. Transfer the tiles, paper upwards into the cement and press down firmly and evenly. It may be possible to do this with your design on one complete sheet, however if it is too big to transfer this way, cut the paper into sections and place in the cement one piece at a time as if compiling a jigsaw. Leave the cement to dry for slightly longer than usual then remove the paper by soaking in warm water. Grout as usual.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Always wear goggles to protect your eyes from flying shards of tile.

Grout and cement mortar can be dangerous substances if inhaled or swallowed and are also irritants to the skin. Always wear a safety mask, gloves and apron when using them.