A mosaic is a pattern of irregularly shaped pieces all fitted together to cover a surface. Mosaics can make distinct pictures or shapes out of thousands of smaller pieces, but they don't have any discernible pattern. This fantastic form of artwork can be added to dull spaces, but on what surface can you add a […]
Engaging in a creative hobby like DIY mosaic art is a healthy way to relax, exercise your problem-solving skills, and learn some new things. Learn more!
Tracy Kaplan's first mosaic was very successful including the choice of grout color, which she identified using test swatches of tile glued to scrap plywood.
Are you working on a mosaic project? Maybe you are wondering how you make it waterproof. We've researched the techniques and materials you can use to waterproof mosaics. By using the proper sealant, you can make any mosaic piece waterproof. Typical grout sealants used for mosaic pieces include penetrating, membrane-forming, and concrete types. Apply several […]
tile, fused glass, crockery on fibre cement board. Going to the USA!
Learn how to make mosaic art the easy way! You can make DIY mosaic wall art on a budget, and it's simple enough for beginners to try.
Engaging in a creative hobby like DIY mosaic art is a healthy way to relax, exercise your problem-solving skills, and learn some new things. Learn more!
Here are 20 amazing and brilliant repurposing ideas projects to turn your broken china and other glass items into something new and fresh.
Adding a mosaic to your outdoor space can make a bland garden, patio, or pool into something extraordinary. Whether it's a piece of art you craft yourself or something you've purchased, the beautiful colors and patterns that go into mosaics are absolutely timeless! But how should you properly adhere to the pieces or the tiles? […]
When your personal style at home leans heavily to the modern look, you may not have considered mosaic as a compatible element. True, it’s an art that has been around for centuries, and the classic designs are still popular. But, think again – it’s merely a medium, and contemporary mosaic art is just as vital and appropriate for today’s interiors. This style can be defined by some key aesthetic points: Minimal, Open, and Simple. There’s a preference for lots of floor space, slim furniture bases, and less clutter. That’s not to say that it’s cold, or lacking in color. As a matter of fact, there are subtypes of contemporary design that purposefully veer away from the aggressiveness of some modern decor. It’s possible to combine texture, color, and spirited good looks with the pared-down austerity of other furnishings to achieve a look that is both comfortable and cutting edge. Mosaic wall art is a perfect way to embrace this combination. Fine Details Using the textural elements of mosaic tile art has a subtlety that lends itself to modern interiors. In a monochromatic form or lightly patterned, abstract additions of mosaic never have to be limited by color. If you can envision a shade, it’s available. This mosaic tile design carries out several functions, as it carries the color scheme from one room to another, blends with the art in the next room, and accentuates the architectural details of the doorway. Image from Style by Emily Henderson Another example of perfectly placed mosaic tile work that pulls together the colors of the room, without adding clutter. The glittering small mosaic tiles incorporate the fresh hues of the glass dividers and other art while providing a clean surface for this spa-like bathroom. Image from Habitat Studio Here, the color scheme remains neutral, and the pattern does the work. The browns work well with this contemporary restoration of a historical home. There is no need to refer to the past in the decor here – simple furnishings don’t compete with the beauty of the windows, and the careful choices of outdoor sculpture that are just glimpsed are allowed their fair share of contemplation. Image from AD Magazine In this living room, the art is bold, and judicious use of contemporary mosaic art on the fireplace lends the cool effect of an art gallery to the mix. The pattern adds just the right amount of movement to the slanted wall and allows the owners to incorporate their grey-toned furniture without disruption. Image from Little Piece of Me Mosaic patterns are also ideal in humid bathroom environments. With the popularity of sleek modern plumbing and accessories on the rise, it’s a wonderful way to enliven small water closet areas without losing function. Installed Mosaic by Mozaico Modern Trends Underfoot The prevailing style of modern furniture incorporates a lot of glass tops, exposed legs, and a minimal footprint on the floorplan. Contemporary mosaic art is a way to maintain the sleekness of hard floors while setting off different areas. This very contemporary look is completely dependent on the mosaic tile floor for its success. With the use of floor-to-ceiling grey in the same fabric texture, this space would have been claustrophobic without the patterned floor. With it, it becomes stunning. Image from Archilovers It’s not difficult to achieve a similar style with a floor mosaic tile. With a well-designed floor accent, you’re able to center a room and pull everything together, but without the worry of rugs. It’s always sleek as can be in rooms that choose to use this unique take on mosaic rug design. There’s always the potential to go bold, as in this design with all the punch of abstract geometric mosaic design Pop Art. Abstract Geometric Mosaic Rug Design by Mozaico. Mosaic artists have also embraced the potential of floor-level statements. They’re referencing ancient pieces that indicated shopfronts and residences, but with a more tongue-in-cheek approach. Jim Bachor was first inspired by the same ancient work on a visit to Pompeii. “I can still remember the guide saying that marble and glass don’t fade, so the artwork looked essentially like the artist intended almost 2,000 years ago,” he says. “It’s the thought that drives my work to this day—the idea of making an enduring mark in this world, however slight.” Image from Artsy This same irreverence can be brought to your home with a bold mosaic mural of your choosing. Placed at a door, in front of a fireplace, or as a cheeky mat replacement in front of a sink or tub, the look thoroughly contemporary. Seductive Lips Marble Mosaic Mural by Mozaico. Colors That Celebrate Modern Life One of the wonderful qualities of mosaic wall tile is the limitless range of colors available. This allows for incredible reproductions of art or photographs, lets decorators use large swathes of colors that have a much more visual impact than just flat wall paint, and provide for color combinations that could never be found in-stock fabrics or wallpapers. True contemporary style will always reflect the current times, and the color is part of it. Not all modern style is monotone or shades of neutral. In this elegant urban setting, the furniture is based around a black and white scheme, which could easily be cold and severe. With the addition of jewel-toned window accents and a deep crimson focal point, the room comes alive. The mosaic tiles have a subtle pattern that both keeps the fireplace surround from being too overwhelming and picks up the white of the marble floors. Image from Little Piece of Me If you need a reminder that every color of the rainbow is possible in mosaic wall art, this bold piece will do it. Used as it is in an entry hall, this has all the power of a piece of modern art, with the color and strict geometry. It would look just as impressive in a grouping of contemporary art, or as a stand-alone piece. Image fromLittle Piece of Me For another idea that pulls in a little touch of surreal, a pinch of humor, and a look that is utterly 21st-century float some Blue Sky mosaic wall art over your couch in a room of neutrals. Paired with the simplicity of modern furniture, this art will look amazing with black and white accessories. The Blue Sky Mosaic Wall Art by Mozaico. Even with the touches of French Revival on the doors, this incredible room is definitely from today. You’ll see the airiness of the furniture defined in the glass top and metal legs of the table. A perfect example of contemporary mosaic wall art not being boring, the exuberance of the wall behind uses a softer color palette that is in no way shrinking violet! Image from Pinterest Sleek and modern bathrooms also look very new with the right use of color. The pattern is precise, but the crisp blues of the tiles is lively and fresh. There are a variety of modern styles where this wall treatment would look at home. Image from Kohler Outdoors, But Not Rustic Home exteriors, pools, and outdoor entertaining areas should go with the flow of the architecture and interior style. It’s important to keep a cohesive feel to your decorating, even when you step outside. Contemporary mosaic art is actually a no-brainer when it comes to outdoor spaces. It stays attractive in all kinds of environments, shrugging off moisture and weather changes. Garden walls, fountains, tabletops, and outdoor kitchens are just a handful of places that can be improved with the right accents. In an environment where sculptural elements are prominent, such as this stuccoed courtyard, it’s difficult to add the right accents. It’s important to respect the clean aesthetic of the lines, but the look can be harsh. The solution of adding a brilliant mosaic backsplash to the pool’s waterfall feature is inspired. Here, the colors of the sky and well-chosen specimen plants are reflected in the hues of the tiles. Image from Designing Idea It’s not an aesthetic where one wants to embrace anything overly twee. Modern architecture just won’t look right with anything overly done. This San Francisco garden hits all the right notes, with a circulas mosaic footpath with a minimal palette and maximum impact. Even with limited plants, this space has an outdoor Zen style that works with the home. A similar look is possible in your own garden by using a black and white palette and a circulas mosaic footpath. On a wall, tabletop, or walk, it keeps the eye interested and moving, while not distracting from the serene outdoor environment that your architecture promotes. Circulas Mosaic Designs by Mozaico Image from Gardenista Similarly serene and monochromatic, this fountain with a tile backsplash is a masterpiece of design. The variation of textures within the mosaic work is just enough to keep it interesting. The pairing with strong vertical elements, like the papyrus plantings and the wall insets, provides a soothing symmetry that only enhances the architecture of the home. It’s both chic and relaxing. Image from DIY Motive: Inspirational for DIY Ideas Mosaic art can also be colorful in a contemporary setting. One doesn’t have to resort to pottery for decorative garden elements. This rainbow-hued abstract glass mosaic piece brightens up its corner of the garden, while still avoiding any hint of cuteness. Image from Fresh Patio In a shady spot that doesn’t lend itself well to luxurious plant growth, artful use of mosaic tile makes it summery year-round. This fresh look is evocative of floral motifs, without coming on too strong. The colors work in harmony with the existing landscaping, as well as with the contemporary brick and stucco exterior of this home. Image from Beautiful House The secret of blending just the right touches of color, texture, and artful location to your modern home style is not that difficult. Contemporary mosaic art is versatile – it’s the most flexible option out there for covering a variety of surfaces in any room – even outside. Enjoy looking through our online catalog, where you can search for just the right color or subject for your project.
Creating eyes in a mosaic piece can be a daunting task. Why? Because you need to get them right. Get them wrong, and your eyes won't look right. Here are some valuable tips to get a great result.
To mosaic a sky can be daunting as it requires a mosaic artist to simplify an already complex subject, with a limited color pallet. Here are 5 important elements that you should consider for your next mosaic sky project and see how other mosaic artists have done it!
One of the most common side effects of Mosaic obsession is the desire to create new pieces like DIY mosaic coasters. Do you keep looking at our mosaic art supplies? Are you getting inspired to try out new designs? Don’t worry. Hopefully, you were able to try out some DIY mosaic art projects after reading our recent blog on holiday activities, and you’re ready for a new one. Let’s get you started on some new DIY mosaic coasters! Mosaic Art is Entertaining! Image Source: Pinterest Mosaic coasters are like small pieces of art that light up your gatherings. What’s more appealing: A plain slab of cork, or a mosaic design that brings a little more joy to your festivities? Mosaic tile, and glass mosaic tile, are made for entertaining. They’re tough, they resist water, and they’re attractive. Combine that with a little creativity, and you’re all set for a fun DIY project. How to Make Mosaic Coasters? The process is simple. First, you need to select the design. Sometimes, you need to outline the design on the coaster base before adding the tiles. Then, cut the tiles into their respective shapes and glue them to the base of the coaster. Finally, once the glue is dry, all you need to do is grout the coaster then adding a marble sealer. Let’s discover the process in more details. 1. How to Select a Design Before you begin, let’s look at some ideas for your coasters. We’ve included examples that use different types of tiles and that are suitable for beginners. How about serving drinks on these mosaic medallion shapes? If you’ve ever appreciated glass mosaic wall art, you know how it’s beautiful in the light. These would be great in sunshine or illuminated by candles. Image Source: Pinterest 1.1. Relaxed Designs This style of coaster uses black grout and fairly large tile pieces to create their bright heart in a blue field. This is a great project for small hands – the tiles are easy to pick up and place. Image Source: Pinterest Here’s another set of coasters that combines terrific colors, simple shapes to work with, and a relaxed approach to tile placement. No stress – just a set of pretty coasters. Wouldn’t these go well with some multicolored patterned dishes? Image Source: Pinterest This is a style that’s great for leftovers from a previous mosaic art project. The individual pieces are all roughly rectangular and have been set up in horizontal lines. Image Source: Pinterest 1.2. Geometry 101 Adding a bit of structure to the design is another way to add little bits of art to your entertainment. These coasters can look like modern art, quilting blocks, or even remind you of Frank Lloyd Wright houses. Mid-Century Modern for your mugs? This pattern has all the colors of the time period, and would love to be paired with your Fiestaware collection at your next dinner party! Image Source: Pinterest We can’t decide if the greens in this set of mosaic tile coasters remind us more of the Emerald City in the Wizard of Oz – or a Frank Lloyd Wright kitchen backsplash. Either way, they’re deeply satisfying. Image Source: Pinterest Need a little glitz at your next soiree? The use of gold glass mosaic tiles in this well-organized pattern gives them quite a sophisticated air. Image Source: Pinterest Charming as a handmade quilt, and cheerful as summery blue sky, this is a fun introduction to the art of tile placement. The space between the pieces provides a little more room to work with. Image Source: Pinterest 1.3. Just a Bit of Planning Required Some DIY mosaic coasters will need a small amount of preliminary planning, and probably a rough design worked out on paper. Even so, the following ideas shouldn’t require much trimming of tile pieces – just a desire to have fun. Radiating color bands and a small budding branch is a totally attainable goal for coaster art. Image Source: Pinterest Working with leftover wood scraps can make your design evolve organically. Broken tiles and square border pieces end up being a great set of coasters! Image Source: Pinterest These designs work with 4 coasters that are lovely on their own – and a surprise piece of larger mosaic art when placed together! Image Source: Pinterest Image Source: Pinterest Last, these round celestial-inspired coasters use glass and regular mosaic tile scraps for a heavenly result. These will be glorious additions to your home, even when not in use. Image Source: Pinterest Getting to Work on Your Mosaic Coasters Image Source: Pinterest Other than your mosaic tile pieces, you’ll want to have a selection of coaster bases on hand for your project. You can find blank ones online. Wood and cork-backed MDF boards are easy to work with. You’ll find both round and square shapes available for your use. Image Source: Pinterest Image Source: Pinterest Before using any wood, make sure it is sealed and dry. Mosaic tile is great around water spills and condensation – wood, not so much. Another option is to paint the wood in a complementary color, as done on this coaster. Image Source: Pinterest Do a test run without any adhesive to begin simple designs. For more elaborate art, you might want to trace the pattern out first on paper. Using an appropriate adhesive, apply the tiles to your coaster. Make sure that the glue is totally dry before the next (optional) step. If you don’t want to use grout, you may begin enjoying your new coasters as soon as the adhesive has set! If you do use grout, consider using a color other than white. Colored grouts can help make your coasters look very finished, and highlight the tiles better. After applying grout as directed on the packaging, be sure that it is as smooth and level as possible in relation to the surrounding tiles. You’ll want a stable surface for any beverages! Are you tempted by our latest DIY project? Which design would look the best in your home?
Definitely Gary Drostle's most popular mosaic works are his troupe l'oeil mosaic fishponds. Here we look at the evolution and enduring appeal.
It’s no secret that we love the beauty of mosaic wall art and the many ways it can be used. Tile is a top choice for adding accents in every room and in every type of environment. It’s versatile, durable, and has been used for centuries – a classic that can even improve the value of your home. Yes, mosaic designs lovers, you are in for a treat! If you’re holding back on installing the wall art of your dreams, you can forge ahead, armed with the knowledge that you’re helping raise your resale value. Follow the Money Remodeling Magazine is a leader in reporting the latest trends in the industry and their annual Cost Vs. Value Report is highly regarded. Their data includes 100 different United States real estate markets and breaks things down into the most popular types of remodeling projects. It’s easy to see where mosaic tile art fits in with the projects offering the best return on your investment. The best renovations are smaller jobs that offer a lot of impacts, rather than large-scale changes. Updating key area in your home is definitely the way to move forward with your desire for improving and customizing your environment. The typical updates like roofs and garage doors will always give a good return on your investment. With the standard disclosures, it’s expected that homes will have big-ticket items that will work well and require little upkeep. But how exciting can new shingles be? Let’s look at some projects that allow homeowners to add extra touches that make a home stand out and show its style. It’s all about the Curb Appeal, realtors will tell you – and you’ll see this referred to often in the industry. Improving the Front Entrance Landing in the top of valuable projects for Remodeling Magazine’s list was enhancing a front entryway and door to make it look more grand and distinctive. Per the trends that the building industry follows, this entrance is set to become wider and bolder. Changing from a single door to a double, adding extra skylights and ornamentation above and on the sides of the doorway, and aiming for a front entry that sets a home apart from its neighbors was chosen as a way to update any home. All you need is a front door – easy enough. With this in mind, there are some outstanding opportunities to use mosaic designs to add curb appeal. Per HGTV, some homes can benefit by first adding a front porch to create interest to the exterior of a flat house. It’s all about creating a sense of welcome. Doors are a natural focal point at your front entry. By adding tile accents, you can utilize the brilliance and durability of the medium to enhance the shape and provide color contrast. Image from Pinterest Even without additional structure, using tile provides maximum impact, framing the door better than ordinary woodwork could ever hope to do. Image from Pinterest In the right settings, mosaic floor tiles can be used to make the entire entryway rich in pattern. The designs can enhance the shapes of wrought iron railings, as well as individual steps. The best thing about this type of home improvement is that it enhances curb appeal year-round. When the weather is bad, trees have lost their leaves, and landscaping is at a minimum, mosaic rug tile never loses its color or aesthetic appeal. Image from Behr Paints It also provides the potential for mixing with door paint colors in a way that you’ll never be able to match with just ornamental plants. With the trend for bold door colors on the rise, homeowners can easily take any color and find the right mosaic floor tile to bring it out. Image from Pinterest Mosaic tile art can also be used in smaller pieces, such as for house numbers, welcome signs, or permanent doormat installations like this mosaic nautical art. Image from Pinterest Homeowners can even customize their front doors with a message or the name of their house. Anyone can have their initial put on a doormat, but mosaic signs and logos allow you to be as creative and specific as you’d like. Good Things Marble Mosaic Sign by Mozaico Installed Work from Mozaico Invest in the Kitchen Kitchen remodeling is one area that consistently gets big returns on your home value. The Motley Fool financial advising site lists kitchen updates as one of their top investments, noting that spending the time to update the kitchen makes a lot of sense, as studies have shown as many as 80% of home-buyers list the kitchen as their favorite room. Furthermore, it’s recommended to go with smaller updates, as they can raise the value of your home at an even higher return rate. Updating cabinets and backsplashes is a winner – and kitchen mosaic tiles can provide a look of luxury and enhance the total aesthetic of your kitchen. It’s all about refreshing the surfaces. Big impact, lower costs. A great place to start is with the area over the stove. A strong trend in recent years is to highlight this space by raising the range hood and providing a more spacious work area and an opportunity to enhance the kitchen. Image from Pinterest Studies show that tile is only increasing in popularity in kitchens. Even though adding tile art adds an instant update, the easy-care aspects make it classic. It’s water-resistant, clean, doesn’t require special products to keep it looking perfect, and it goes with absolutely any kind of decor. Installed Work from Mozaico Interior designers advise clients to go ahead and make the type of personal changes they’d enjoy, it there’s not planning on selling their homes for a couple of years. The endless array of designs and themes in mosaic kitchen backsplash can allow homeowners to express themselves with any theme they like – from floral to scenery to animals. Updating to embrace the new trend of coppery metallic hues is a pretty clever way to incorporate mosaic kitchen tiles into your kitchen. Image from BHG Blues will also continue to be strong in future home trends, adding value to your stylish tile update. Instead of going with solid large tiles, use the interest and depth of mosaic rug tiles to provide something truly eye-catching. Image from Why Tile It’s also easy to use the classic beauty of mosaic kitchen backsplashes to highlight a classic beauty. Image from Pinterest Just remember, updated kitchens are one of the most desirable items that home shoppers look for. Bath Updates Make a Clean Sweep in the Home Sales Arena Did you know that bathroom remodeling and updates can give homeowners a triple-digit return on their investment? It’s another of Remodeling Magazine’s big winners in desirable projects. If you’re thinking about making some changes, it’s time to ditch the big tub and install a big shower. “People just don’t have time for baths and soaking any more,” notes one HGTV personality, “And they’d rather have a luxurious shower.” Buyers also look for tiled showers – floor to ceiling. If the sound of all that tile sounds a little bland to you, mosaic wall tile is the way to turn the ordinary bath into something incredible. Fancy a little art with your thoughtful time under the spray? Installed Work from Mozaico They also add the beauty of subtle pattern to an otherwise monochromatic decor look – a perfect way to update without swerving too hard into a figurative art style. Image from flickr The nature of mosaic border art can also beautifully enhance windows. Check out how this shower is completely tiled, yet the porthole window is made into a piece of art. Image from Pinterest The best bathroom updates will take the upcoming trends in home sales into account, and still make the current owner feel that they have achieved their personal style goals. With the high return on your investment on this type of remodeling job, it’s okay to let your personality show. Installed Work from Mozaico Don’t forget about your bathroom floors, when you’re pondering updates. The right tile can break up the monotony of a big blank space, while still keeping its wonderful water-resistant qualities. Easy and attractive is one way to win the heart of any future home-buyer. Installed Work from Mozaico It’s also the perfect way to enhance a bathroom backsplash or add some trim. Installed Work from Mozaico Bathrooms mosaic tiles are one of the most appealing ways to add value to your home, absolutely. The Thought of Garden Parties Makes Buyers Happy Landscaping is a big deal, in the real estate world. If you’re lucky enough to have usable outdoor space, the ability to enhance will be another top-rated investment, per Remodeling Magazine’s report. Exterior enhancements always help that curb appeal factor, and yards, gardens, and patios benefit from brighter colors and decor. Seasons change, but mosaic wall tile always stays looking just as bright. Let your inner garden artist out with some stair tread designs, and you’ll always enjoy your moments outside – even when the sun isn’t shining. Image from Pinterest Tile art is also perfect for use on a patio or courtyard. There’s all the luxe feel of a rug, all the colors of the rainbow, and all the beauty of a painting when you find the right kind of accent. Image from Pinterest In some parts of the country, an outdoor shower is a great investment. In pool areas that have a smaller footprint, they save the need for a pool house – and end up looking just as lovely as a standalone mosaic pool art piece. Image from Why Tile Mosaic wall art can also enhance any bare garden wall – lovely when the leaves have fallen. Installed Work from Mozaico The sheer versatility of this Kolaz mosaic medallion makes it a valuable – literally – addition to any home. It’s hard to match for its range of colors, styles, and suitability for all types of environments. When you’re considering your next move in home remodeling, tile should be at the top of your list. there’s nothing like combining beauty and a good investment, right? For more inspirational ideas on home updates that you’ll love, check out Mozaico!
Keen to take your mosaics to the next level? Then you'll love the mixed media mosaic tutorial with loads of tips and tricks and step-by-step instructions.
Materials:
Bottle glass mosaics
This post is by special request. How to make stained glass mosaic windows. I first saw the technique on HGTV about eight years ago. Since then, I've made a total of 48 windows -- this one is my latest. I finished it in about three days. Here's how. I start by picking out a vintage window. And yes. I've collected a lot of windows from salvage companies and resale shops. This is the stash in my garage. I'm always on the look out for interesting one pane windows -- all sizes. I like a shabby, vintage finish. They have more character. I just have to make sure the glass is secure and solid. In many cases, I'll recaulk my windows for better stability. Use a scraping tool or putty knife to remove any loose caulk on the back of your window. Pick up a clear window caulk from your hardware store and apply a fresh bead of caulk around the back of your window where the glass and the frame meets. After the new caulk dries completely, you're ready to clean your window. Knock off or scrape off any loose paint. Use a scrub brush and dish detergent to remove any dirt or residue. Let your window then dry completely. Here's the window I selected for my latest mosaic. My work space is my kitchen table. (Maybe one day I'll have my own studio.) For now, it's a good place to work - by a large bay window -- which is essential in working on glass -- lots of good lighting. So. Got my window. Next. Decide on a design. I get inspiration for my mosaics from lots of different places -- paintings, graphics, even pillows and coffee mugs. This is the painting by Shelli Walters that served as an inspiration for this window: Original Art by Shelli Walters Next. I turn the window over to the backside. That's where I'll draw out my design using a dry erase marker. And yes, I draw it free handed. If I have to make an adjustment (and that happens a lot) I just wipe off the dry erase marker and begin again. When I finish drawing it out, I sit the window up and make sure I'm happy with the finished design. Again. This is the back side of the window. I sometimes write in a letter to identify the color I plan to use in the design. W = white. P = purple. You get the idea. I've recently started putting some white paper on the front side of the window to help me see my design my clearly as I'm drawing it out. Now that my design is drawn, it's time to select the glass. This is my favorite part. I love to pick out colors that will work well together and have the brightest impact. I've got a stash of stained glass as well. And a healthy respect for handling it. So far, I've never received a bad cut during the completion of 48 windows, put I'm always careful. I buy much of my glass at Hobby Lobby -- when it's on sale. One sheet may run between $5-$9.00. For more unique colors, I visit the LEB Studio off Wade Hampton Blvd in Greenville. They have a ton of glass in lots of beautiful colors. So, here's the colors I pulled for this window. And these are the essential tools I use in cutting and breaking the glass. These are the only tools I use in making my windows. If I start with a full sheet of glass, I use the clear plastic tool - a glass cutter (right) to score the glass. Working in a straight line, I run the glass cutter from one end of the glass to the other to create a very light "score line." Using the yellow handle tool (the glass breaking pliers) directly on the score line, the glass breaks in a clean line. The white bottle is glass cutter oil (need to keep the glass cutter well oiled so it cuts effectively.) Then I can break the clean line of stained glass into the "triangle mosaic shapes) by using the black tool - the mosaic cutter. All of these tools can be purchased online or at Hobby Lobby. If you look closely, you can see that the triangle mosaic shapes fit easily together to fill the design area. I leave a slight space between each piece and make additional cuts if I need a special fit. It may look complicated, but it's not. I apply an area of glue to the window (such as the single flower and lay the glass directly on top of the glue area.) It's like putting together a puzzle. The more you do it, the easier and faster it becomes. You can find the clear silicone glue at Lowes or Walmart. Now, my window is face up. From this point on, I'm working on the front side of the window. (Remember, my design is drawn onto the backside of the window with a dry erase marker. I moved the white paper to the backside of the glass now -- which makes it easier for me to see my design. I'm gluing the stained glass pieces to the front side of the window - following the pattern I've created with my dry erase marker. I mentioned it's my sunniest window. It usually attracts one of my cats. Gus came by for a visit while I was working. This is what the window looks like when I've finished laying the glass on the design. At this point, I haven't grouted the mosaic - so there's light coming through each piece. I use a canister of compressed air to blow off the design to make sure it's free of dust (or cat hair) or any debris before grouting. To grout the mosaic, I buy a bag of sanded grout from Lowes. The grout mix comes in a range of colors. For this piece, I'm using a grout color called "straw." I follow the instructions on the bag of sanded grout and mix it in my kitchen sink with a hand mixer. (And yes, it's a mixer I've designated for mosaics -- and not for baking!) When I mix the grout, it will have the consistency of "cake batter." I pour it directly on my mosaic. I wear disposable gloves during this part -- and spread the grout over the entire mosaic. Again, following the grout instructions on the bag, it sits for about 30 minutes -- and then I scrape off the excess grout with a spatula and a sponge. The grout adheres to the areas "around" each mosaic piece -- creating the mosaic look. The next step is the most tedious. After I've removed all of the excess grout with a sponge, I put the mosaic up in a window to check and make sure the grout has adhered to all of the hundreds of cracks in the mosaic. If I'm lucky, there's not a lot of patching or reapplying that has to be done at this point. These are the sophisticated tools I use for this stage. The excess grout takes on more of a clay texture once it's been exposed to the air -- so I keep a little on hand to do any repair work -- and use the straight pin or push pin to clear out any excess glue around the mosaics that keeps the grout from adhering. Thankfully, with this piece -- the clean up stage didn't take long. After the grout dries overnight, I'll wipe it clean a final time and add the hardware to hang the mosaic. I'll screw in a couple of hooks at the top of the window and add a small chain to hang it in a window or on a porch. A final personal touch for me is to hand write a verse of scripture on the back of the window frame -- just a small way for me to honor the true provider of the art I create. So. See. Nothing to it. Who's ready to try one?
Learn about everything you need to do and make your very own mosaic craft at home in my step-by -step guide for beginners!
All of my furniture is hand-crafted in Zimbabwe, using locally produced materials. It can be used both indoors and outdoors, and can be made in a huge variety
The Dance framed print by Anne Marie Price. Bring your print to life with hundreds of different frame and mat combinations. Our framed prints are assembled, packaged, and shipped by our expert framing staff and delivered "ready to hang" with pre-attached hanging wire, mounting hooks, and nails.
Begin creating with this guide to mosaic art techniques, tools, and design. In this article, we'll explore indoor vs. outdoor materials, substrates, tesserae, color, adhesives, and sealers. We'll even delve into the mysteries of grout.
Introduce some greenery and plant-themed elements into a house is by opting for lush green wallpapers and leafy wall mosaics!
We started with a big collection of bright coloured straws and ended up with this cool (and easy to do) straw mosaic art!
Create Your Own Mosaic Workshop in Mexico with Carol Shelkin February 5 – 11, 2017 February 12 – 18, 2017 FULL Puerto Vallarta, Mexico $1850 per person, Double Occupancy This workshop encourages …
Beautiful glass mosaic art pieces with Styrofoam bases, by Katherine England and her students. Carved with Hot Wire Foam Factory tools.
Discover 30 gorgeous mosaic DIY projects for your home, backyard and garden that you will simply love. Get creative today.
Get detailed Instructions on how to make this gorgeous mosaic birdbath by Ellen Nolet. Ellen guides you through what materials and supplies you will need and provides step-by-step instructions so you can make one for yourself.
Mosaics are a unique way to bring color and style to your garden or backyard. You can DIY these mosaic ideas and brighten up your outdoor space.