Friday, July 2, 2010

Mosaic Mirror




I really want to do this someday! I've seen these cool mirrors before and thought, "Those are GORGEOUS! I bet I could make one and it would be unique and a lot less money!" So I decided to research, and I found TONS of ideas! It doesn't sound extremely simple, but definitely not very hard. Just something that should be planned out carefully. Basically what I've found is this:

1. Find your mirror. Any size, any shape. It can have a frame or not.
2. Find your mosaic pieces. Most suggest to use ceramic tile. Others say any type of ceramics works, glass, old jewelry, buttons, etc. Apparently there are such things at "tile stores" where one has endless options for tile colors/ patterns. These can get pricey though.
3. Plan your design. If you are using cookie-cutter shapes, this needs to be exact. If not, just lay out your ceramic or glass pieces.
4. Cut your ceramic pieces with a a wheeled tile nipper if you need to cut them. If you want broken pieces, place ceramics in a large trash bag, seal, and place a towel around it. Hammer.
5. Glue your pieces down with clear-drying non-toxic craft glue. Let dry 24 hrs.
6. Apply a thick layer of non-sanded grout over entire mosaic. Wait about 20 minutes, then use a damp sponge to wipe away grout from tiles. You might need to use a dry towel to polish tiles.
7. Let dry 24 hrs.