Mosaic Masterpiece: How to do Mosaics- 10 Easy Steps
Step One
Find a form or surface that you want to mosaic. Choose from plaques, mirrors, frames and more.
| | 
| | | | | Step Two
Select the tesserae (bits and pieces) that you want to use to cover your project | |  | | | | | Step Three
Apply the adhesive. You may spread adhesive onto small areas and attach your pieces. Or you may put a little dab on the back of your piece and then place it on the surface.
Tip - It is a good idea to either layout your design prior to adhering the tesserae or you may decide to "wing it" and create your design as you go along. Just remember, you are using a quicker drying glue and don't have tons of time to change your mind! | |  | | | | | Step Four
As you adhere your tesserae to the surface try to leave no more than 1/2" and no less than 1/8" between each piece. Also avoid using too much adhesive, you don't want it squishing up too much. Continue adding the pieces until your design is complete. Don't forget, you may also mosaic the sides. | |  | | | | | Step Five
Once you have completed your design you need to allow your project to dry completely. We supply a quick drying adhesive that should dry within an hour. Most other glues and mastic need at least 24 hours to dry before you may grout. | |  | | | | | Step Six
Now that your adhesive has dried it is time to grout! Choose your grout color and add water one tablespoon at a time. The consistency should be like a nice gooey oatmeal or thick brownie batter. You may choose to work with gloves to help prevent staining your skin.
Tip- Always use caution when working with mosaics. Many of the bits and pieces are sharp and can cut your fingers ... especially when grouting. So, take your time and use caution. | |  | | | | | Step Seven
When applying the grout use spreading motions. Much like icing a cake, you want to spread the grout into the gaps. Don't be afraid to really lay it on! You want the grout to build up in between the pieces so that it is even with them. The goal is to create an even surface. Don't worry about clearing off the tops of the tesserae right now. | |  | | | | | Step Eight
Once you have completely covered your piece, start gently wiping off the excess. Avoid digging in-between the pieces; wipe off the top surface. The grout needs to set for about 10 minutes; during this time you can repair little mistakes and tidy up areas. | |  | | | | | Step Nine
Once the grout becomes a little chalky looking you can take a napkin or paper towel and begin wiping the chalk off. You may use the napkin or paper towel or your fingers to remove the rest of the chalky grout and clear off the tops of the tesserae. Now is the time to clean off the tops of each piece. Again, take care not to dig into the grout. | |  | | | | | Step Ten
The grouting is now complete...but please don't throw the unused grout down the sink! Take a dry cloth and polish your piece. If you did not mosaic the sides, you may paint them.
Now, enjoy your new Masterpiece! | |  | | | | |
|
