How to Create a Mosaic Kitchen Backsplash

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By nanrk
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Creating a mosaic kitchen backsplash is an easy home project that will liven up your kitchen. You can use glass tile, ceramic tile, or less expensive recycled materials such as broken china plates found at garage sales. Be sure to choose colors that work well with your kitchen decor, thinking towards the future because once installed the mosaic kitchen backsplash will be there to stay!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Ceramic Tile
Large pieces of cardboard for template
Tile Adhesive (sometimes called thinset)
Sponge
Dry Towel
Grout
Bucket
Water
Cement-mixing tool kit
Tile snips
Grout float
Power drill
Trowel with 1/8 inch notch
Pencil with eraser
Tape measure
Scissors
Level

Step 1

To create a template, measure the area of your kitchen backsplash and transfer the measurements to the piece of cardboard. Make sure you include any electrical outlets or switches. Cut the template out and fit it into the backsplash area, adjusting it until it fits absolutely perfectly.
Step 2

Break the ceramic tiles with the tile snips, creating even-sized pieces.
Step 3

Lay the template on the floor and arrange the tile pieces on it at least 1/4 inch apart in a pattern that compliments your decor. This will be your guide as you glue the pieces to your backsplash.
Step 4

Wipe down the backsplash area with a sponge cleaning it of all dust, dirt, and grime. Once the area is dry, start from the center base of the backsplash gluing the tile pieces with the tile adhesive, making sure they are placed at least ¼ inch apart. Use a level to check your work.
Step 5

Wait 24 hours for the tile adhesive to dry then begin to grout. Reading the manufacturer’s instructions, prepare the grout mixing it with your cement mixer until it is smooth.
Step 6

Spread the grout over the tile pieces with the grout float and let sit for 15 minutes. Wipe off grout from tile surface with damp sponge. Leave the remaining grout to set following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Comments

MojaveDesert said

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on 4/19/2008 This is my "First" home project that I am going to attmpt. I am so excited!I will send you a pic of my finished product for your opinion if you don't mind. Thanks for this Article!