The Project

• Mosaic shards
• Several wooden crafts sticks
• Ceramic-tile metal file
• Coarse sandpaper
• Rubber gloves
• Bucket of water
• Terry-cloth towel or sponge
• Spray bottle of water
• Vinegar
• Ceramic mastic or Bondo
• Clean plastic bowls
• Unsanded grout
• Acrylic adhesive
• Grout pigments
• Dust mask

Step 1

1. Gather the materials. Make sure the surface has been sanded, if necessary, and is clean and dust-free. File or sand sharp edges off the mosaic shards. If you have a special piece to act as a central element for your design, start with it. Apply ceramic mastic (available at crafts supply and hardware stores) or Bondo (available at automotive parts stores) to the back of the shard with a wooden crafts stick.

Step 2

2. Position the pieces on the surface, and press firmly. Continue this process, placing each shard as close as possible to the next. It takes as long as eight hours for the mastic to completely harden, so you can rearrange pieces as you go. When all the pieces are in place, let the project dry completely.

Step 3

3. Add grout. Place about a cup of unsanded grout in a plastic container. You may need more for big projects. For color, add pigment to the dry grout. Then, using a crafts stick, stir in acrylic adhesive or water until the mixture resembles thick mud -- add grout or liquid as needed. Let it set for about 10 minutes. Wear rubber gloves. Apply the grout with your hands, pushing it into the crevices between the shards with your fingers. Gaps will allow moisture to seep in. You may periodically need to rinse the gloves in water or vinegar.

Step 4

4. Wipe off excess grout with a paring knife, damp sponge, or towel, being careful not to remove any from between the pieces. Regrout any problem areas before the grout dries (which takes 2 to 3 hours). To extend the drying time, mist the grout with a spray bottle filled with water. Allow the grout to set. Put on a dust mask, then finish by filing any sharp edges with a Dremel or metal file. Regrout problem areas if needed. Polish the piece with a dry cloth.