Easy Mosaic Tile Craft Ideas & Designs
- When looking for tiles to use for a mosaic craft, there are a number of choices that will influence the overall look of the finished item. Small glass tiles, called "mosaic tiles," can be used in set patterns to make a polished look. For children, small glass drop beads work well. When working with adults, larger tiles can be broken to make odd-shaped pieces. A popular choice for material is old dishware. To break dishes or larger tiles, place them on an old sheet and fold it over. This prevents tile shards from flying into the air and causing injury. Use a heavy hammer and lightly smash the pieces from on top of the sheet. Remove the tiles from the sheet using caution to avoid cuts.
- A mosaic trivet is perhaps the easiest craft for beginners and it can double as a wall hanging when not in use. There are a number of items that you can use for the backboard of the trivet. If choosing wood, make sure it is at least 1/2-inch thick to avoid bowing, and painting a layer of waterproof paint over it helps it to further resist water absorption. Rigid metal sheets, cement backer board, or a larger tile also work well for the backing of a decorative trivet. Another easy mosaic craft is to make a custom plant pot. A simple terra-cotta pot works well for this project.
- Once deciding the backdrop for the project, the next step is to arrange the tiles. Decide if you would like to have a haphazard pattern or a set design or picture and lay out the tiles according to the measurements of your chosen backdrop. Next, you need to attach the tiles. Mortar is the most common choice for attaching tiles, but for small projects like these, a glue gun is an easier alternative. Simply place a large dab of glue where you're setting the tile and press the tile into it. After all the tiles have been set, use grout to fill in the gaps between the tiles. Premixed grout is the easiest and least messy choice for small projects. Using a trowel, spread the grout over the tiles. Wait about 10 minutes for the grout to set up a little, then wipe off any extra grout with a damp sponge. Use a dry towel to polish the tiles. It takes about 24 hours for grout to completely dry, so set your project somewhere safe until then.
