If you can, find them already precut into distinct shapes and sizes. This will keep you from having to break them with a hammer/saw later. Choose a wide variety of colors and shades. Even if your work will be mostly monochromatic, you will want varying values and ones. Choose tesserae that goes with the art you wish to create. For example, if you are doing a beach scene, it might be best to use a wide variety of shells. If you are looking to recreate the Brooklyn Bridge, you might want to look into metals.

Choose bases which have large, open spaces and that are solid. [8] X Expert Source Kathy LeaderArtist Expert Interview. 13 February 2022. If there are numerous crevices on your base, it may be hard to create mosaic pieces which will fit.

For metal bases, use sandpaper and a wire brush in order to remove rust. The now “roughed up” surface has an added benefit, it will make the tiles stick to the surface better. Score plastic and/or rubber surfaces with a utility knife in order to help the tiles stick better. Sand wood surfaces down, then apply a waterproof sealer. If you don’t do this, moisture could soak in, thereby cracking your mosaic art.

If the pattern is extra large, do it in sections. Remember this is a rough outline, which can be changed when you start to lay down specific tiles. If you are using an original design, simply draw it directly onto the base. However, don’t over plan. Spontaneity is key to creating artistically stunning art.

Tile nippers and cutters are used to create straight lines and curves. [18] X Expert Source Kathy LeaderArtist Expert Interview. 13 February 2022. They can be found at most hardware, and arts and crafts stores. These are used to cut through porcelain, ceramic, china, etc. Cut through the object you are using about halfway through. They, using your hands, break the piece off. Glass nippers and cutters work the same way, except that they are specially designed for cutting glass. When you are creating the pieces, look at your design. Try to envision what shapes you will need in order to fill the pattern. If you miss a piece, or mis-cut one, you can always come back later to cut a new one.

Once you have your objects laid out the way you want them, you then have two options: leave them there, or take them off. If you choose to leave them there, you will apply mortar directly to the pieces. This garners a more accurate design, but takes a lot longer and can be more tricky. If you choose to take them off, place the pieces to the side in the same pattern they were placed on the base. You will be applying mortar onto the base. This garners a less accurate pattern, but is much easier to accomplish.

If you are applying the mixture to the base, only do one section at a time. Spread on a few inches, length wise, onto the base. You only need about a 1/4 inch width of mortar. If you are applying it to the pieces themselves, take your knife and apply the mixture to the back of the piece. Try to keep most of the mortar adhered to the back by gently pressing the mixture with your hands. Scrape off excess mortar from around the outside edge of the piece before you apply it.

Make sure you are wearing gloves as you apply, otherwise the grout will stick and solidify on your hands.

You will want to apply two coats. Use a paintbrush to apply each coat. In between coats, wait about 10-15 minutes for the varnish to dry. After the sealer has dried, buff the mosaic with a soft towel. This will give your mosaic a nice clean finish. Reapply every few years for added protection.