Plan and Create a Mosaic Glass Tile Backsplash
what you'll need
- Tape measure
- Cardboard
- Tag board
- Ceramic tiles
- Tile snips
- Soap and warm water solution
- Bucket
- Rag
- Tile adhesive
- Grout
- Sponge
Creating a glass mosaic tile backsplash is not only a great idea, but a stylish one at that. Creating and installing this backsplash may seem a bit tough. However, it is a great DIY project.
Following the steps below will give you an easy way to create and install your back splash.
Step 1 - Measure the Area
Using your tape measure, measure the area where you plan on creating your backsplash.
Step 2 - Cut out Cardboard
Now that you have measured your area, you will want to transfer those measurements onto either a piece of cardboard or tag board. Cut out the board according to the measurements to make your template where you will create your design.
Step 3 - Add Extras
Before placing any tiles onto your template, make sure you draw any outlets, switches, or anything else that is presently in the area you will be working on.
Step 4 - Break the Tiles
Start breaking your ceramic tiles with tile snips. By using snips to break the tiles, you are creating a nice finish and matching ends to each ceramic tile.
Step 5 - Start Creating
Now is the fun part, where your creation starts to flow. Take the broken ceramic tile pieces and arrange them on your board according to the style you want.
You can design them any way you want, but just remember to space each one about 1/4 inch apart from one another.
Step 6 - Clean the Surface
Now you will want to step away from your creation to prepare your area. Using a warm soapy water solution, bucket, and a rag you will want to wipe down the surface where you are installing your Mosaic backsplash. This will ensure proper adhesion and leave it looking great.
Step 7 - Piecing It Together
Remembering the design you once put together on the board, you will want to start gluing pieces of the broken ceramic tiles to the surface you have just prepared. You will want to use tile adhesive, and just as in your template, apply the pieces about 1/4 inch in space from one another.
Step 8 - Let It Dry
When finished applying your design to your surface, you will want it to dry for about 24 hours. This will give the best result when starting to grout in the next step.
Step 9 - Start to Grout
Using grout, apply over entire area that is your backsplash. You will want to cover the 1/4 inch spaces as well as all the tiles. Let the grout set for about 15 minutes. This will ensure a good seal.
Step 10 - Wipe Off Tiles
After about 15 minutes, you will want to take a damp sponge and wipe the mixture off of the tiles, leaving it present in the spaces. Leave the rest in place to set over night.
There you have it, a beautiful piece of art right in your kitchen and a home improvement and art project all in one.