The ornate, detailed designs of mosaics aren't limited to the walls of a Byzantine church; you can bring this decorative element into your home by creating a work of art on your kitchen countertop. Whether you opt to create a detailed picture or choose a simpler tile pattern, mosaics add life and color to an area that's usually plain. A kitchen countertop mosaic is sure to get the attention of anyone who visits your home.
Instructions
1. Sketch out the design of your mosaic tile countertops and identify the type of tile you'll use. Venetian glass is a stain-resistant, non-porous option ideal for kitchen use. You can also use natural stone tiles, ceramic tiles or porcelain. Purchase the tile type of your choice, ensuring that the tiles are of the same thickness to avoid an uneven countertop.
2. Prepare your kitchen countertops for the mosaic application. Mosaics can be done on practically any type of surface. You may want to remove the original countertop, leaving only a plywood base, if you're concerned about increasing the countertop's height and thickness, or you can apply the mosaic directly over your existing countertop. Clean the surface thoroughly to remove any grease or dirt.
3. Prepare the tiles for use by washing them to make sure they are free of dust. Dry them with a soft cloth and lay them out on a flat surface to completely air dry.
4. Create a dry layout out of the mosaic pattern with the tiles you intend to use on a kitchen table or area of the countertop not being tiled. Although this step gives you practice in laying out the specific pattern, it is not necessary if you're planning an easy pattern.
5. Use a chalk line to create a gridline on the countertop to ensure your tiles are installed evenly.
6. Mix up a batch of cement-based mortar according to the packaging instructions. Purchase mortar that's specifically designed for mosaics from a craft store as an alternative.
7. Apply a layer of the mortar to a small area of the countertop. You don't want to cover the entire surface as it may set before you have a chance to apply the tile. Make the mortar layer approximately half the thickness of your tiles; the chalk lines should still be visible through the mortar, allowing you to use them as a guides. You want the cement to hold the tiles in place without oozing into the spaces between.
8. Apply the tiles to the mortar by pressing them into place, leaving gaps between each one of up to 1/4 inch. Determine the exact spacing based on your personal preference. Repeat the process of applying mortar and pressing the tiles into place until the mosaic is complete.
9. Allow for the proper drying time of the mortar based on your specific brand.
10. Cover the entire surface of the mosaic with tile grout; use a spatula to fill in all of the cracks between the tiles.
11. Gently buff excess grout from the surfaces of the tiles with a damp sponge after about 20 minutes. Let the grout dry according to brand instructions before using your new counter.
Tips & Warnings
Consider adding a sealant over the surface if you frequently use your countertops for food preparation.
Know more about Mosaic Tiles And Mosaic Tile
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Schreiber
