This project provides basic simple instructions for the direct method of making a flat tile mosaic design. Students design and make a finished product that involves breaking up their 2D design and adjusting it into a relief.

The history of mosaics starts with Greek & Roman civilizations and continues through the art of the 1950's and the present.

Grade Levels

Elementary through High School

Time Required

Approximatly 2-5 class sessions (45 - 60 minutes)

Lesson Objectives

After completing this lesson, students would be able to:

1. Discuss the history behind mosiac making.
2. Break up their 2D designs and adjust them to relief.
3. Be aware of the negative space between design elements.

Procedure

Step 1: Design and Apply Tiles

1. Choose base material: foam board, wood, metal, glass, plastic. Cut to desired shape.
2. Transfer design onto base. Remember there will be space between the tiles. Keep the design simple.
3. Choose tile colors; remember that grout color will outline the design. A neutral grout, white or silver, will work with all colors except white and light gray tiles, etc. Black grout works with all colors except black, dark brown, dark gray. Terra cotta grout works well with all color tiles.
4. Apply the adhesive by squeezing it onto an area about 4" × 4". Use a piece of firm cardboard to spread the adhesive and apply the tiles ASAP.
5. Adhere tiles leaving approximately 1/8" between each glass piece. Note: Wider areas are OK. They actually use less tiles but may not make the design stand out.
6. Place tiles to about 1/4" from the edge on all sides.
7. Adhesive will take 2-3 hours to dry. Pieces must be totally dry or they will move when grout is applied.
8. Note: Foam board may warp under the weight of the tiles but it will flatten with the grout.

Step 2: Grout Process

1. Mix only what you need. Grout cannot be stored. You will need a medium large bowl. For a 14" × 11" mosaic panel, use 2 cups dry grout to start. Add 1 cup water, 1/2 cup at a time. Mix until grout is the consistency of a brownie batter. Allow to stand 2-3 minutes.
2. Apply by dropping large spoonfuls on top of the mosaic. Use a damp sponge to spread and force into the spaces between the tiles. Cover the entire project and the 1/4" area around the edges.
3. Fill a bowl 1/2 full with water. Carefully wipe off excess grout with a wet sponge. Squeeze excess grout into bowl. Clean sponge with water and repeat the process until excess grout is removed. Make sure not to clean to the point where the grout is removed between the tiles. A film will form on top of the tiles but can be cleaned once the grout is dry.

Extended Lesson

• Tape cardboard around all edges. Apply Vaseline to the inside vertical edge. When grout is dry, remove for a very flat edge.
• Adhesive and grout can be used directly on a wall or column.
• For younger students, limit size of project and use only glass tiles.
• 5th grade and up, Cutting tiles is possible. Use eye shields for protection. Hold cutters low at your waist and cover the cutting area with a cupped hand. Squeeze the cutter with your other hand.
• When grout is dry, rub common salad or cooking oil onto the panel. It will bring out the color in the grout and make the glass shine. Repeat and wipe off until the grout has a rich color.
• Put a colorful plate in a bag, hold end shut, break with hammer. Add pieces to your design.
• Add odd shaped pieces of glass, ceramics, or pieces of old jewelry.
• See Ceramic Tile Paintings project. Work painted tiles into your design.