Fri, Feb 05, 2021
This mosaic mirror is suitable for beginners and as an introduction to the art of mosaic. Some cutting of ceramic tiles is required, so you will need strong hands as these tiles are quite dense.
Materials Used In This Mosaic
To replicate this mosaic you will need one packet of the following tiles. Four different tile patterns have been used to create this mosaic, but you could choose to just use one pattern. Click here to see the full range of Blue & White Ceramic Bits.
This project is also available as a kit
Instructions
1. Adhering the tiles
The adhesive can be applied either directly or painted individually onto the tiles' back. By far the quickest method is to apply the adhesive onto the candle holder. When using this method, apply to small sections to avoid the adhesive drying out. Weldbond or a good quality PVA based adhesive is suitable for this project.
When the tiles have been applied, allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before applying the grout. Run your hand over the tiles to ensure they are all firmly adhered before grouting. If any are loose, remove them and re-adhere.
2. Cutting the Tiles
You will need to cut some tiles for this project, the majority of the tiles can be used whole, but some cutting will be required to fill the gaps. These tiles are a dense ceramic, which means you will need to have good hand strength to cut them.
To cut the tile, overlap the tile edge by 3 to 4 mm and squeeze down. Don't cover the entire surface of the nipper with the tile; this will help stop the tile from becoming crushed and your hand from tiring. By applying pressure to a small amount of tile at the edge, you create a fracture along the surface.
3. Grouting the Mosaic
Allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before grouting.
Before grouting clean the surface of the mirror to ensure there are no loose particles etc. Also check that there is no dried adhesive is on the face of the tiles.
Mix the grout according to the manufacturer's instructions. It should be the consistency of thick oatmeal before it is applied. If you accidentally add to much water, let it sit for a few minutes, and it will thicken up, or you can add more grout. Stir until smooth. Allow the mix to stand for 10 minutes, re-stir and then the grout onto the tiles.
We suggest that you use gloves when working with grout, while it is non-toxic it can dry out your hands. You will go through a few pairs whilst grouting. Apply the grout in a diagonal motion, ensuring that the grout goes into the joint's entire depth. Sculpt it on your edges to make a nice smooth edge, remove the excess grout with your gloved hands or sponge. Keep a container of water next to you to wash off the sponge as you go.
Once you have covered your entire piece and filled in all of the spaces, wipe off as much of the excess grout as you can with your gloves or hands. After you do this allow the piece to sit for 20-30 minutes or until the grout becomes hazy. Then take a slightly damp sponge or cloth and wipe off the haze. Buff and shine the tiles with a dry cloth. Remove as much grout as you can from the tile surface, as it will be much harder to remove later. Do not use paper towels as they flake off and stick in your grout.
Allow the grout to dry. If placing the mosaic outside, allow three days before putting it outside.
A grout sealer can be applied once the grout is dry to keep the grout clean and protected (optional).
Tips:
· We suggest that you use gloves when working with grout. While it is non-toxic, it can dry out your hands. You will go through a few pairs whilst grouting.
This project is suitable for indoor use only.
Legal Disclaimer: No warranty is implied by these instructions. Use at your own risk. The Mosaic Store and its proprietors are not responsible for the results of any actions taken based on this information, nor for any omission in the advice. Please wear appropriate safety equipment when cutting mosaic materials and using grouts and adhesives. Keep out of reach of children.
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