Q&A for How to Do Mosaics

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Question

Can I mosaic on glass windows?

Kate Weaver

Community Answer

Yes. You can create a glass-on-glass mosaic by gluing stained glass on clear glass. Use a clear bonding agent though. Then, grout it as shown in this post.

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Question

Can I use only glue to do mosaic?

Community Answer

You can use glue or caulk to affix pieces, but you will still want to use grout to smooth over the top and fill in the spaces between the pieces.

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Question

Can I make a mosaic on heavy paper board?

Community Answer

The paper would probably absorb most of the mortar water (which would cause it to dissolve). If you want to make a mosaic on paper, use some silicone-based glue.

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Question

What kind of adhesive do you recommend using to adhere the mosaic tiles to a bowling ball?

Community Answer

Loctite Power Grab Construction Adhesive. You can find it at any hardware store. It works great on vertical surfaces for a quick bond.

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Question

Do I need a special kind of mortar or varnish for outdoor mosaics?

Community Answer

Seal with marine-grade polyurethane (matte, not shiny).

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Question

I have a large concrete bowl. Can I put mosaic on it?

Community Answer

Yes, you can!

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Question

Do I have to remove old paint from a project before putting a mosaic on it?

Community Answer

If your mosaic is smaller than the old paint behind it, it is better to remove it. Also, your mosaic glue or mortar will work better if the wall is smoothed, rather than old peeling paint and an uneven surface.

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Question

Can I use only glue without using mortar?

Community Answer

Yes, but depending on your surface material or your tesserae, mortar may be a better choice than glue.

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Question

How do I make the grout?

Community Answer

You don't make it. You buy it. To properly use it, read the instructions on the container.

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Question

Will mosaic adhere to stainless steel?

Community Answer

You would need a special glue. Test it first, and see if you find the right adhesive. Do this before you start your project so you do not waste your time.

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Question

What do I do if the grout is cracking in my mosaics? Is it fixable?

Community Answer

You can regrout an art piece if you have 1/8 of an inch leeway. You can also use acrylic paint, mixed with Mod Podge to make repairs with.

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Question

Can I make a mosaic on a piece of stained wood? What kind of adhesive should I use for that?

Community Answer

Thinset mortar can be used on a plywood mosaic backer, provided the plywood has been sealed with a white PVA adhesive such as Weldbond. It is important to seal the plywood at least a day or two before you mount the mosaic with thinset because the Weldbond needs to be thoroughly dry and cured.

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Question

What material can I use to color grout?

Community Answer

Acrylic paints work well for coloring grout. Just go a bit at a time to gauge the color you want and to make sure you don’t change the grout's consistency.

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