Kit Guides: Mosaic

 

With mosaic art, you get to shape natural stone into something both tactile and visually striking—it’s like piecing together a puzzle, but the end result is a one-of-a-kind work of art. Mosaic involves arranging small pieces of material, like stone or tile, to create a cohesive design. In this kit, we’re using a mix of natural stones and WeldBond adhesive (no grout necessary!) for a clean, contemporary finish. Our kits are designed to be simple with relatively minimal tile cutting involved, making it a relaxing activity to enjoy on your own or with kids ages 8 and up (with adult involvement). 

For a full overview of mosaic, you can watch the video above, and review the tips below.

General - Getting Started

⚠️ Safety First: If You Read Nothing Else, Read This!

  • Only adults should cut tiles. Kids can assist with tile selection, placement, and gluing.
  • Contain debris while cutting. Cut tiles inside a towel (our preference), a box, or another enclosed space to prevent shards from scattering.
  • Protect your eyes. Consider wearing safety glasses (preferably with side shields) to guard against debris.
  • Handle with care. Cutting any kind of tile can produce sharp edges—use caution when handling freshly cut pieces.
  • Never wipe your work surface with your bare hand. Use a brush or damp cloth to safely clear away dust and fragments.

Getting Started

  • Set up on a clean surface with a drop cloth or cardboard underneath (Hint: the box your kit came in works great!).
  • Arrange your stones before gluing to plan your design—lay them all out or work section by section.

Using the Tile Nipper

  • Place the stone between the nipper blades at your desired cut point.
  • Squeeze the handles to break the stone into shape (watch your fingers!).

Applying the Adhesive

  • Apply a small dab of glue to the back of each stone—a little goes a long way.
  • Press firmly onto the wood panel, keeping stones close together for a seamless look.
  • Let dry completely—don’t worry, the glue dries clear!

Tips for Success

  • Stay consistent: Keep stones close together and try to match widths for clean lines.
  • Use the pattern as a guide, but adapt as needed to fit the natural variations in stone size and shape.
  • For better control when cutting stones, wrap them in a cloth to prevent pieces from flying and to make shaping easier.
  • Cut a few options at once when filling a small space—it’s faster than repeatedly trimming a single piece.
  • Step back occasionally to assess the overall composition.

Finishing Your Mosaic

  • Wipe off excess glue with a damp cloth.
  • Let dry overnight before moving.
  • If you’d like a glossy finish, apply a clear sealant (not included).
  • Designed for indoor display only—attach hanging hardware if desired.