How to Use Vintage China for Mosaic Art
Vintage china can add a unique touch to mosaic projects. From tabletops to picture frames, china's durability makes it appropriate for nearly all mosaic projects. The tricky part is breaking the china. With a little preparation and practice, you will want to add china to all your mosaic projects.
Things You'll Need
- China (plates, saucers, coffee cups)
- Two-wheel glass mosaic cutter
- Eye goggles
- Protective gloves
- Dust face mask
- All-weather adhesive
- Clear polyurethane spray
- Grout
- Grout sealer (optional)
- Sponge, large
- Bucket of water
- Drop Cloth
Instructions
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1
Put on eye goggles, protective gloves and face mask. Place a drop cloth under your project.
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2
Cut the piece of china using the two-wheel glass mosaic cutter. Cut into several pieces and continue cutting and nipping the edges until they are the desired size for your project.
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3
Arrange the pieces in a desired pattern and glue them to your project base, which could be a piece of furniture or a picture frame. Let the glue dry according to the manufacturer's recommendation.
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4
Spray the china with a light coat of polyurethane spray. This coat protects the china from scratches during the grouting process. Let the spray dry according to the directions on the can.
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5
Mix your grout with water according to the package directions and apply to the project. Use a sponge to remove excess grout. Rinse the sponge in the bucket of water often to remove residue. Let the grout dry according to the manufacturer's directions.
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6
Apply grout sealer, if desired, to protect the grout from spills and help it last longer. Let the grout sealer dry according to package directions and your table is ready for use.
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Tips & Warnings
When you cut the china, it is dusty. Keep the mask on to prevent inhaling the china dust into your nose and lungs. Also work in a well-ventilated area, or outdoors.
Grout your project in a dry rather than damp environment to speed up the drying process.
Before you start, purchase some "practice" china at a garage sale or thrift store. Develop your technique before you start cutting on your "good" china.
