Creating mosaics can be a bit of a time-consuming project, but at the same time it can also be regarded as a good time-consuming project. For instance, crafters have often called the experience of smashing or breaking decorative glass and clay tiles invigorating and releasing. Even the simple act of puzzle-piecing the odd shaped fractions into place were said to be meditative and relaxing.
Like all things in life to every pro, there is a con and that con is that sometimes those beautiful, decorative tiles sold in most hobby stores can be a little pricey. Fortunately for those of us who are cost efficient, there is a less lofty and simple alternative to doing glass mosaics. Use glass.
The process is simple. Prime and paint the surface you wish to tile any color or colors. Carefully break a glass panel but be sure to wear a snug pair of safety goggles and a pair of utility gloves while handling glass to protect from flying shards and from sharp edges. Adhere the glass to the painted surface with a bottle of mosaic tile adhesive that dries clear, to ensure the paint comes through the glass without a cloudy film. Use a wooden stick to apply a generous amount of glue to the back of each piece and hold in place for five seconds before continuing. Allow a decent drying time, carefully checking various pieces to make sure they are good and sturdy. A general rule of thumb is to allow everything to dry overnight.
After you have completed your design pattern, let's get down to the piece de résistance, grouting, which, from my experience, looks a lot easier on the DIY network. Grout comes in array of colors ranging from black to terracotta and can also be purchased at hobby stores. Mix the grout according to package instructions and keep in mind the mixture should have the consistency as creamy peanut butter. If it is too thick you will use too much on too little space, and if it is too watery it will not hold completely which results in a thin layer. Since the medium is glass, it is of great importance to apply the grout with a grout spatula because those exposed edges are still dangerous to touch. Once the spaces in between the glass, and seemingly the glass itself, have been grouted give a three to five minute wait before wiping it off with a thick damp sponge several times.
The last and most important step is to proudly display your pocket-friendly creation and practice the non-committal "it’s no big deal" shrug when family and friends marvel at your new crafter-piece.
Carmellia Daniels - null
