FAQ's

For indoor use, I sell an Adhesive that can be mixed 50/50% with water and painted over the surface to act as a sealer. Or depending on the surface you can use any remaining paint that you may have left lying around. Remember that you will have to repaint with matching paint on the exposed edges that will be seen.

What about outdoor projects?

It’s most important to seal surfaces that will be exposed to the elements. A silicone Masonry sealer is recommended for use on concrete, Fibrolite, brick, terracotta etc. Kiwicare put out a good waterproofer, for this and it is available in Mitre 10 and Placemakers, follow the manufacturers instructions for mixing.

What surfaces can I Mosaic on to?

It is important for the surface to be rigid, so it does not flex, as the grout will crack if there is any movement. Timber, concrete, terracotta, are all-suitable. MDF timber is ok for indoor use, but only marine plywood should be used outside. Plastic is not a suitable surface as it is usually too flexible. Shiny surfaces like glazed pots should be keyed with a light sanding first, so the adhesive will grip.
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What kind of adhesive should I use?

There are many different adhesives on the market, if you have a favorite and it works well then stay with it. A waterproof adhesive must be used for outdoor work. I have a good silicone adhesive for sale for outdoor use. Another favorite for indoor use is available in 100ml or 500ml bottles, it dries clear, washes out in water, and can be applied with a small brush. Top of Page

Should I use Ceramic or Glass tiles?

This is a personal preference. Ceramic have a brighter shiny finish compared to Glass Tiles, and can be used in larger pieces. Keep in mind that if you live in an area prone to frost, that Ceramic tiles must be of the frost proof variety. I have a large range of colours in both tiles. Top of Page

What tools do I need?

Safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying pieces.

Standard Tile Nippers are suitable for ceramic tiles, and are recommended for a nicer finish that just breaking up tiles and using them, without trimming up first.

Wheeled Glass Nippers are essential for cutting and shaping Glass Tiles, Paua, and Mirror. The cutting of these materials will be precise when Wheeled Nippers are used.

Tiles Scriber for scoring Ceramic Tiles and Mirror to break into strips, squares, and rectangles.

Tile Breaker for snapping Ceramic and Mirror into strips, squares and rectangles as described above in conjunction with a Tile Scriber. Top of Page

Why do I have trouble cutting the tiles?

To use Ceramic or Glass Nippers with ease, you need to hold the Nippers in your hand at the lowest end of the handle, so as to create better leverage. Some tiles are naturally harder than others so will be more difficult to cut, in Ceramic tiles the red clay are harder than the white clay, due to being fired at a higher temperature. Top of Page

What tools do I need for Grouting?

A bowl for mixing your grout in. An old kitchen spatula, wooden spoon or similar for mixing the grout. A Spreader for spreading the grout onto you Mosaic piece to be grouted. A squeegee for pushing the grout into the joints. A dust mask to protect yourself from inhaling the fine grout dust. A dense sponge for cleaning off the excess grout once it has dried to a powdery finish. A soft towel or cloth for a good polish or you project once the grout has dried. Top of Page

Any Further Questions please email me on bernadette@mosaicmadness.co.nz

Mosaic Madness

Phone/Fax: 09-411-8977

Freephone: 0508-558-558

Email: bernadette@mosaicmadness.co.nz