Home / Art History

Learn the Ancient History of Mosaics and How to Make Your Own Colorful Creation

By Kelly Richman-Abdou on May 12, 2018

How to Make a Mosaic

Now that you know all about the splendid history of the mosaic, why not try making your own? Learn how to craft a basic yet beautiful assemblage in just a few steps.

Mosaic glass on a table. (Photo: Denys Kurbatov via Shutterstock)
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Materials:

Tools:

Pencil
Sponge
Rubber gloves

Making a mosaic. (Photo: Nadezhda Kulikova via Shutterstock Royalty-free stock photo)

Steps

Sketch a design on the piece of wood.
Attach the tiles to the block using the adhesive. To do this, simply apply the glue to the wood in sections and stick the tesserae within 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch of one another.
Let the piece dry for at least 24 hours.
Once dry, it's time to grout! Wipe off the surface of your mosaic to get rid of any debris or extra glue.
Put on your gloves and use your fingers to apply the grout. Cover the entire piece (even the tiles themselves!), making sure it's getting in between the gaps.
Once you're done, use your hand to wipe off as much excess grout as you can. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
Use a damp sponge to clean the grout from the surface of your piece. Once done, throw any leftover grout into the garbage—not down the sink!
Voila! Enjoy your new work of art!

Once you've mastered this method, you can shape the glass yourself using tile cutters. Similarly, try replacing the simple wooden block with tabletops, picture frames, and other creative bases. The possibilities of the mosaic practice are endless!