how to make a mosaic

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3. tips on mosaic materials

What's best to use and why?

Remember you will be spending hours making your mosaic so it has to last. Use tried and tested materials so that you can admire your work for years to come.

Board: Use plywood preferably 5 ply (five layers) minimum thickness 9mm. Ensure that it is WPB quality - waterproof board.

Glue: Waterproof Unibond glue can be found in the black and white container NOT the red and white container.

Gluing tip: Always apply glue to the back of your tile rather than to board or mesh.

Tesserae: If the mosaic is for indoors you can use any of the ceramic and glass materials. If outdoors you need to ensure that the materials are frost resistant. Regular ceramic bathroom and kitchen tiles are NOT frost resistant.

Tile adhesives and grouts: If you are using cement-based adhesives and grout check that there are no lumps in it. If there are lumps then it is off, DO NOT USE.

Soak tiles off sheets: Use warm water and paper will come away in about 10 minutes. Make sure to rinse the tiles thoroughly to take off excess glue. Lay on a towel to dry.

When using mirror: Remember to use mirror glue from a glass shop. Other glues over time eat the foil back away and reveal black marks.

Cement-based tile adhesives: Goldster made by Bal is a tried and tested product. It is very durable and has about a 2 hour working time once mixed with water. This makes it ideal for working straight into with tesserae. It can also be used for siting work architecturally along with other brands like Mapei. Tower ceramics or your local supplier would be able to advise you on your specific requirements.