How to Make Mosaic Garden Tables
Mosaic garden tables make a great addition to any garden, adding color and style as well as functionality. However, these tables can be quite expensive when bought in a store. With a little effort, it is possible to make a garden mosaic table for a fraction of the cost.
Things you will need:
- Old table
- Mosaic tiles of your choosing
- Tile nippers
- Newspaper
- Thinset mortar mix
- Acrylic admix
- Containers for mixing
- Paint stirrers
- Grout
- Tile sealer
- Cloth for wiping
- Paintbrush
- Gloves
- Identify an old table that you would like to attach the mosaic tiles to. Metal tables usually work best. Be sure the table is clean.
- Lay out newspaper on the table.
- Arrange the mosaic tiles in the pattern that you want them on top of the newspaper. If some of the tiles do not fit correctly, you can use tile nippers to shape the pieces. Make sure the tiles are arranged to fit the entire table.
- Transfer the tiles off the table by lifting the newspaper carefully and setting it down in a nearby work space. Take care not to shake the tiles out of place. Have another person help you move the newspaper if necessary.
- Mix two cups of thinset mortar mix with one quarter cup of admix. Add water until the mix is spreading consistency.
- Spread the mortar on the back of a tile using the paint stirrers. Press the tile onto the table in the position it was in when on the newspaper. Repeat for every tile.
- Allow the mortar to dry for 48 hours before continuing.
- Mix two cups of grout with one quarter cup of admix, adding enough water to make it spreading consistency. Let set for about 10 minutes. Put on gloves before proceeding to the next step.
- Apply the grout to the spaces between the tiles using your hands. Work the grout tightly into the spaces.
- Wipe off excess grout on the tiles so that they are clean and surfaces are smooth. Allow the grout to set for 48 hours before the next step.
- Apply the sealer to the tiles on the table top using the paintbrush. Allow to dry for 20 minutes and then apply a second coat of sealer. Allow to dry completely.