Crafts : Mosaics : Homemade Mosaics : Home & Garden Television

Mosaics can be made with just about any type of object, like this fork, spoon and knife adorning a glass vase.

Some objects to consider using in mosaics include tumbled glass, river stone, seashells and rocks.

Artist Chris Mobley shows how to create beautiful mosaics with ordinary objects from around the house.

Initial Tips

Use a variety of objects, including vintage jewelry, stones, keys--even silverware--to create a unique mosaic. Don't forget things like pots, vases, picture frames, tabletops and trays, too.
Try to keep the thickness of the objects fairly uniform so that the edges don't stick out and create an uneven surface. Uneven surfaces are difficult to cover with grout and unfriendly to use.

Mosaic

Materials:

white glue
masking tape
grout (available at craft or home supply stores) or cement
food coloring or grout tint
damp sponge

Steps:

Figure A

Attach object to surface with white glue. If the surface is slanted, tape objects down with masking tape until they are dry (figure A). Let dry overnight.
Use either grout or cement for a more rustic look. Grout can be colored with food coloring or grout tint. Mix grout according to package directions. It should be thick rather than runny.

Figure B

Press grout into spaces between objects (figure B). Be sure to cover the entire object, not just the surface. Let dry for about an hour.

Wipe off excess grout with a damp sponge.

Also in this Episode

Homemade Mosaics