How to Make the Mortar for a Mosaic Tabletop Design

There are many color options for the mortar.

Mosaic tabletops are functional pieces of artwork. You can design your tabletop to coordinate with a room or to express your personal style. Whether you use broken tile, stones, glass or pieces of china in your design, the materials need to be securely attached to the tabletop. Once the design is glued in place, mortar is applied to fill in the spaces between the tiles, becoming part of the design itself. Proper mixture of the mortar is important for the appearance and durability of the mosaic tabletop.

Things You'll Need

• Cement-based mortar, such as Thinset
• Plastic bucket for mixing
• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
• Measuring cups, one for mortar and one for water
• Rubber squeegee
• Rag

Instructions

1. Measure cement mortar mix into the bucket. Read the manufacturer's directions to determine the proper amount for your project.

2. Use a measuring cup to add water, a little at a time, to the powdered mortar. Read the manufacturer's directions for the proper amount of water to add. Stir with a wooden spoon as you add the water. The mortar should be the consistency of mayonnaise when it is ready.

3. Spread the mortar on the tabletop with a squeegee. Press firmly to push the mortar into all the cracks between the tiles. Wipe off excess grout with the squeegee.

4. Allow mortar to set. Follow the manufacturer's directions for drying times. Wipe off film with a clean rag.

Tips & Warnings

• You can apply a sealer to the mortar to prevent stains.

• Be sure the mortar is the proper consistency. Too thin mortar may result in bubbles and poor adhesion. Too thick mortar may result in crumbling out of the joints in the design.