Ceramic Leaves Photo Frame

Are you looking for a small, easy-to-make project that you can make with the kids? Yes, then this project is for you. My son Charley, in the photo above, made this photo frame (although he is a bit bigger now). Create this beautiful mosaic photo frame with ease; it's the perfect beginner's project.

Detailed below are the project instructions plus techniques for you to create this mosaic, or if you prefer, you can purchase this mosaic as a kit. Mosaic Kits are an easy way to get started in mosaics and a great gift idea. They are great for beginners, as they are an easy introduction to the art of mosaic.

Materials

MDF Photo Frame - 15 x 10cm
Adhesive - A clear drying PVA adhesive (like Weldbond or Sullivans PVA adhesive)
Grout - Black
Ceramic Leaves - 2 packets
Gloves, containers, rags or sponge for grouting

Or purchase the 'Leaf Photo Frame Kit'.

Steps

Lay the tiles out on the surface of the photo frame in a design that you're happy with, making sure the leaves aren't too far apart, which will avoid large areas of grout. A handy tip is to take a photo of your design, so you remember the placement.
Adhere your tiles. You can either apply the adhesive to the back of each tile or lay the tiles in a bed of adhesive. By far the quickest method is to paint the adhesive onto the base. When using this method apply to small sections at a time to avoid the adhesive drying out.
When the tiles have been laid allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before applying the grout. Run you hand over the tiles to ensure they are all firmly adhered before grouting. If any are loose, remove them and re-adhere.
Spread grout between the tiles using your gloved hands or a palette knife (see our detailed guide to grouting below). Grout the sides of the photo frame, ensuring a smooth even surface.
Wipe down the tiles using a damp sponge. Allow to dry until a hazy develops over the tiles and gently buff off the excess grout.
Allow to dry for 24 hours
Enjoy!

Beginngers Guide To Grouting

When mixing the grout, it should be the consistency of thick oatmeal before it is applied. If you accidentally add too much water, let it sit for a few minutes, and it will thicken up, or you can add more grout. Stir until smooth. If mixing your colour be sure to mix enough grout to cover the mosaic to ensure colour consistency. 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 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 entire depth of the joint. Sculpt it on your edges to make a nice smooth edge, and remove the excess grout with your gloved hands or sponge. Keep a water container 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 doing 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.

A grout sealer can be applied once the grout is dry to keep the grout clean and protected (optional).

Grouting Tips:

· Safety first – use protective eyewear when nipping glass

· Never dispose of grout down the drain

· Mix grout in a disposable container for an easy cleanup