How to Make Garden Mosaics

Garden mosaics are a wonderful way to add color and style to your garden. Whether nestled among masses of lush green plants or displayed prominently against a fence, these bits of colored tile can create a focal point to your yard or garden.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3/4 inch Plywood Circle
• Ceramic Tiles
• Flat Marbles
• Decorative Glass
• Powdered Grout Mixture
• Grout Sealer
• Grout Float
• Waterproof Wood Sealer
• Butter Knife

1. Begin by deciding on the shape and size of your mosaic. If this is your first attempt, a round design may be easiest.

2. Purchase or cut a circle of plywood or press board to the desired size.

3. Spray paint with a neutral color to improve adhesiveness.

4. Section the circle to resemble a wagon wheel shape. The number of sections you choose is up to you, but at least 6 makes a nice display. Insert precut pieces of wood for the spokes. You could use natural wood that you find , but be sure it is dry and straight to maintain the design you are looking for. Leave a small circle in the middle to resemble the center of a wagon wheel. Wood should extend from the the middle circle all the way top the outer edges of the wheel.

5. Apply tile adhesive to the back of the wood and set in place. Fill the center with flat marbles or broken tile pieces after applying adhesive to the backs. Wipe away excess adhesive with a damp paper towel.

6. Continue to fill the areas of the mosaic with broken tile pieces or decorative glass in a variety of colors to create a design that appeals to you. Always apply tile adhesive to the back of each piece before setting it in place. You can use an ordinary butter knife to apply the adhesive.

7. Let your mosaic set for at least 24 hours before applying grout.

8. Mix powdered grout and water until it is the consistency of cake batter and let it set for about 10 minutes.

9. Spread the grout over the mosaic using a grout float. Be sure to cover all cracks but be careful not to completely cover any low set pieces. Let the grout set for ten minutes.

10. Wipe off excess grout with a sponge and clear water and let the mosaic set for 48 hours.

11. Seal with two coats of grout sealer, allowing it to dry before you apply the second coat.

12. Seal the plywood with waterproof sealer, and allow to dry. Set your mosaic in your garden, and stand back to admire your work.

13. Set the mosaic in your garden.

Tips & Warnings

• Break tiles in small pieces by placing a tile between the folds of a folded towel and setting it on a hard surface. Use a hammer to break the tiles.
• Consider purchasing bits of colored glass at a craft store. These come in a variety of colors and are already in the size you need.
• Always use safety goggles when breaking tiles!