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Bases
To create your mosaic you will need to attach your tesserae to a base surface. By using the right adhesive and correct preparation almost any surface can be used so selecting the base material becomes a matter of the shape you want, how it will be used, and where it will be used.
When selecting a base think about the following:
Wood
Wood can be cut to shape and size easily, making it ideal for many projects, but be aware that no wood is 100% waterproof and wood can sag or warp. Using high grade plywood (at least 10mm thick) will provide a rigid support and help counteract warping.
I use exterior plywood for all my wooden bases but I still seal all of my pieces to protect them from extreme weather.
MDF is only suitable for indoor projects.
You will need to "tooth" (rough the surface of) and seal the wood before applying the mosaic as added insurance. To seal the wood use a diluted mixture of water (4 parts) and PVA (1 part).
Terracotta
Terracotta and clay objects are a popular base surface and offer a wide variety of shapes and sizes to mosaic on. These will absorb the moisture from the adhesives and grout so need to be completely sealed on all sides, inside and out.
Cement
Cement is strong, stable and durable making it an ideal base surface. You can add mosaic to pre-made concrete objects like birdbaths, stepping stones and planters. Or you can make your own simple shapes.
Glass
You can mosaic on flat sheets of window glass, glass table tops or glass items like bowls, votives, plates, etc. You will need to be sure that it is strong enough to hold the weight of the mosaic.
Mesh
Mesh is an ideal surface for making a mosaic in one location and then transporting it to another location for installation.
If you don’t want to work outside in the weather when creating your garden masterpiece then use mesh to adhere your tesserae to and work in the comfort of your indoor workspace. This is called the "indirect method".
When selecting a base think about the following:
- Is it strong enough to hold the combined weight of tesserae, adhesive and grout
- Does the base shape have appeal and good proportions?
- The shape should be suited to the size of tesserae you use. Small base, small tesserae.
- Can you find the correct adhesive to adhere the mosaic pieces to the base?
Wood
Wood can be cut to shape and size easily, making it ideal for many projects, but be aware that no wood is 100% waterproof and wood can sag or warp. Using high grade plywood (at least 10mm thick) will provide a rigid support and help counteract warping.
I use exterior plywood for all my wooden bases but I still seal all of my pieces to protect them from extreme weather.
MDF is only suitable for indoor projects.
You will need to "tooth" (rough the surface of) and seal the wood before applying the mosaic as added insurance. To seal the wood use a diluted mixture of water (4 parts) and PVA (1 part).
Terracotta
Terracotta and clay objects are a popular base surface and offer a wide variety of shapes and sizes to mosaic on. These will absorb the moisture from the adhesives and grout so need to be completely sealed on all sides, inside and out.
Cement
Cement is strong, stable and durable making it an ideal base surface. You can add mosaic to pre-made concrete objects like birdbaths, stepping stones and planters. Or you can make your own simple shapes.
Glass
You can mosaic on flat sheets of window glass, glass table tops or glass items like bowls, votives, plates, etc. You will need to be sure that it is strong enough to hold the weight of the mosaic.
Mesh
Mesh is an ideal surface for making a mosaic in one location and then transporting it to another location for installation.
If you don’t want to work outside in the weather when creating your garden masterpiece then use mesh to adhere your tesserae to and work in the comfort of your indoor workspace. This is called the "indirect method".
When starting out it is best to use a smooth flat surface as your base such as a mirror, trivet stand or stepping stone.
But with more experience you can experiment with surfaces of different textures, use vertical surfaces and 3D designs.
But with more experience you can experiment with surfaces of different textures, use vertical surfaces and 3D designs.
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