Make a Mosaic Stone

Mosaic stones are a fantastic project; they are quick to make, inexpensive, and unique. They make beautiful paperweights or decorative pieces that will be enjoyed by anyone that receives them. You can even get a group of people together and have a mosaic stone making party!

They are a fantastic project for beginners and experienced mosaicists, as the only aspect that can be challenging is laying the tiles on a curved surface.

Choosing Your Materials
Your imagination only limits the Choice of materials. If you plan to have them placed outside, you need to consider whether the materials will stand up to the elements.

Choosing a theme or colour scheme will help give you some direction with your design before proceeding.

Materials That You Will Need

Mosaic Stones
Adhesive - Outdoors - Cement-based adhesive or clear drying liquid nails. Indoors - Weldbond adhesive (not recommended if your stone is curvy as the tiles may fall off while drying)
A good selection of Tiles and Materials
Tile cutters - if you are planning on cutting your tiles.
Grout

Adhering Your Tiles & Materials
It is always a great idea to have some concept in mind before you start. This may be a design based on a colour theme, geometric shapes or swirls (my personal favourite). Make several stones so you can go wild and have fun experimenting.

Using a tacky adhesive (e.g. Cement Based Adhesive or liquid nails) will hold your tiles and materials while the adhesive dries. Using a liquid adhesive like Weldbond will make it harder for your pieces to stay in place while the adhesive dries (particularly on curved areas).

Grouting
When grouting, always wear gloves, as the grout will dry your hands out.
Mix a small amount of powdered grout with water until it becomes a porridge-like consistency. Once mixed, place a small amount of grout onto your tiles and rub it into the gaps between the tiles. Once you have covered the entire mosaic, scrape off the excess and allow it to dry.
Wait until the grout has started to dry (the grout will become dull) and carefully clear off the excess grout with a sponge. Leave it for 24 hours, then give it a final buff up to remove excess grout.