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Plastic Storage Jar Square-Grip Clear PET 48oz

Plastic Storage Jar Square-Grip Clear PET 48oz

Plastic Storage Jar Square-Grip Clear PET 48oz is perfect for storing and displaying glass mosaic tile. The square shape makes these jars stack efficiently in a small bookshelf. The clear plastic makes the contents visible, which is essential for storing studio materials that are chosen on sight.

Product Specifications

  • Square-grip plastic storage jar
  • black ribbed lid with liner
  • quantity: 1 each
  • Width: 4.25 in
  • Height: ~6.5 in with lid

How to Use Plastic Storage Jar Square-Grip Clear PET 48oz

Mosaic tile should be displayed side by side in the studio so that the artist can select just the right color. These clear plastic jars make this possible. We arrange our shelves in “rainbow order” (red-orange-yellow-green-blue-purple-pink) plus browns and black-white-grays. This allows use to find colors quickly, and so we always return the colors to this order, but during a studio session, we are constantly pulling out jars and placing them in different combinations. This is how we quickly evaluate different color schemes for a mosaic before we even start taking tile out of the jar.

How To Make Mosaics

For more advice on designing your mosaic project or mounting, cutting, and grouting tile, please see our page of Mosaic Frequently Asked Questions or our Mosaic Information Guide, which lists instructional pages described by topic. We also post new articles about making mosaics at our How to Mosaic Blog.

Free Mosaic Pattern Goldfish

Mosaic Pattern Goldfish colored version

Free Mosaic Pattern Goldfish fits the 6×6-inch mosaic backer board we sell and can be transferred onto the board using these instructions in our blog article. Carbon transfer paper may be easier than coating the entire back of the pattern with charcoal because there are so many lines to be transferred.

Prints on 8.5 x 11 inch paper.

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This pattern was designed using the 12mm (~1/2 inch) Elementile Recycled Glass Mosaic Tile.

Mosaic Tile Needed

–> <!–

The more closely you attempt to fit the tile together, the more tile you will have to scrap because they don’t always cut exactly as desired. It is easier and more efficient to leave a grout gap. You need a grout gap to properly seal out water.

These numbers are inflated to account for cutting scrap. In theory, you can cover the entire pattern in 144 UNCUT tiles with barely a gap. These numbers at their high end add up to 288 tiles, and 216 tiles at their low end. It’s better to have tile left over for other projects, especially if you aren’t sure how steady your cuts will be.

–> <!–
  1. Primary Blue Tint1 58-78
  2. Phthalo Blue Tint3 52-69
  3. Fruit Punch 48-63
  4. Cad Orange 17-23
  5. Leaf Green 17-23
  6. Spring Pea Green 15-20
  7. White 6-9
  8. Black 2-3
–> <!–

REMEMBER THAT YOU CAN USE DIFFERENT COLORS FROM THESE.

No Partial Bags Sold

We cannot sell partial bags of tile. Of course you will have many tiles left over if the color is only used in 2 or 20 tiles! That is a good thing. You build a library of materials at home that you can be used for other mosaics, hopefully your own designs. We plan to offer kits soon that include the quantities listed above, but until time permits that work, please do not email us asking for partial bags.

–>

Free Mosaic Pattern

Free Mosaic Patterns are available as PDF downloads for customers who checkout using the normal shopping cart checkout process. Other materials do not have to be ordered.

Mosaic Art Edges

This pattern mounted on the 6×6-inch backer board produces a mosaic where the tiles extend all the way to the edge of the board so that edge of the mosaic looks like what it is (an authentic mosaic).

However, the tile needs to stop at the edge of the backer and not stick out. If unframed, the outer edges of the glass tile need to be smoothed by rubbing with a fine-grain stone of moderate hardness, which can be found on the ground or streets most places, or by using the fine-grain sides of a ceramic marble file or a dual-grit rubbing stone. Rub finished mosaics with care and practice first by rubbing sharp tiles before you glue them down. (I have used ordinary found stones for this purpose -JM)

Fits In Standard Frame

A finished 6×6-inch mosaic made with glass tile on our backer boards should have the same dimensions and thickness as a 6×6-inch stretched canvas painting, and so it can fit in a standard 6×6-inch gallery frame meant for paintings.

Displaying Mosaics Unframed

Many books and authorities recommend NOT extending the tiles all the way to the edge of a backer because it makes those tiles vulnerable to damage by impact and by leaning the mosaic on its edge. We have observed that the 6×6-inch size is small and light enough to be handled without these types of damage being as much of an issue provided the mosaic is handled with care. Also, we think the raw mosaic edge is a vital part of the look and feel when displaying the finished artwork. The make great objects d’art when displayed unframed in the easels used for displaying china plates.

How To Make Mosaics

For more advice on designing your mosaic project or cutting and grouting tile, please see our Mosaic Frequently Asked Questions page or our How To Mosaic blog or our Mosaic Information Guide.

Free Mosaic Pattern Crowing Rooster

Mosaic Pattern Rooster Crowing colored version

Free Mosaic Pattern Crowing Rooster fits the 6×6-inch mosaic backer board we sell and can be transferred onto the board using these instructions in our blog article. Carbon transfer paper may be easier than coating the entire back of the pattern with charcoal because there are so many lines to be transferred.

Prints on 8.5 x 11 inch paper.

<!–

This pattern was designed using the 12mm (~1/2 inch) Elementile Recycled Glass Mosaic Tile.

Mosaic Tile Needed

The more closely you attempt to fit the tile together, the more tile you will have to scrap because they don’t always cut exactly as desired. It is easier and more efficient to leave a grout gap. You need a grout gap to properly seal out water.

These numbers are inflated to account for cutting scrap. In theory, you can cover the entire pattern in 144 UNCUT tiles with barely a gap. These numbers at their high end add up to 288 tiles, and 216 tiles at their low end. It’s better to have tile left over for other projects, especially if you aren’t sure how steady your cuts will be.

  1. White 12E040 28-37
  2. Maroon 12E098 22-29
  3. Cad Red Light 12E107 45-60
  4. Sienna Tint2 12E094 11-14
  5. Ultramarine Blue Tint1 12E062 54-72
  6. Primary Blue Tint1 12e066 54-72
  7. Black 12E049 2-3

REMEMBER THAT YOU CAN USE DIFFERENT COLORS FROM THESE.

No Partial Bags Sold

We cannot sell partial bags of tile. Of course you will have many tiles left over if the color is only used in 2 or 20 tiles! That is a good thing. You build a library of materials at home that you can be used for other mosaics, hopefully your own designs. We plan to offer kits soon that include the quantities listed above, but until time permits that work, please do not email us asking for partial bags.

–>

Free Mosaic Pattern

Free Mosaic Patterns are available as PDF downloads for customers who checkout using the normal shopping cart checkout process. Other materials do not have to be ordered.

Mosaic Art Edges

This pattern mounted on the 6×6-inch backer board produces a mosaic where the tiles extend all the way to the edge of the board so that edge of the mosaic looks like what it is (an authentic mosaic).

However, the tile needs to stop at the edge of the backer and not stick out. If unframed, the outer edges of the glass tile need to be smoothed by rubbing with a fine-grain stone of moderate hardness, which can be found on the ground or streets most places, or by using the fine-grain sides of a ceramic marble file or a dual-grit rubbing stone. Rub finished mosaics with care and practice first by rubbing sharp tiles before you glue them down. (I have used ordinary found stones for this purpose -JM)

Fits In Standard Frame

A finished 6×6-inch mosaic made with glass tile on our backer boards should have the same dimensions and thickness as a 6×6-inch stretched canvas painting, and so it can fit in a standard 6×6-inch gallery frame meant for paintings.

Displaying Mosaics Unframed

Many books and authorities recommend NOT extending the tiles all the way to the edge of a backer because it makes those tiles vulnerable to damage by impact and by leaning the mosaic on its edge. We have observed that the 6×6-inch size is small and light enough to be handled without these types of damage being as much of an issue provided the mosaic is handled with care. Also, we think the raw mosaic edge is a vital part of the look and feel when displaying the finished artwork. The make great objects d’art when displayed unframed in the easels used for displaying china plates.

How To Make Mosaics

For more advice on designing your mosaic project or cutting and grouting tile, please see our Mosaic Frequently Asked Questions page or our How To Mosaic blog or our Mosaic Information Guide.

Millefiori TRANSLUCENT GEMS 2oz

Millefiori Gems

Millefiori Gems 10mm-12mm (3/8 inch to 1/2 inch) are the rounded gems used to make millefiori beads, but they do not have beading holes and are used for mosaic art. The sides are rounded so the pieces are ovoid bead-shapes instead of being cylinders with straight edges like standard millefiori. The gems are sold in 2-ounce units (approximately 50+ pieces) and are much cheaper than traditional Italian millefiori.

Note that the designs are fairly uniform, and there aren’t many different designs, usually only three or four designs per color. Don’t expect an assortment of many different designs.

What Is Millefiori?

Millefiori is a traditional form of art glass that is disk-shaped with different multicolored patterns and is commonly used in jewelry and mosaic art.

Product Coverage

This is a problematic question because the millefiori was intended to be used as an accent instead of as area coverage, and the piece size can vary. That being said, one 2-ounce bag should cover roughly 5 or 6 square inches, but that will depend somewhat on how efficiently you nest the pieces.

Compatibility

The thickness is about 1/8 inch and is the nominal thickness of most of the glass mosaic tile we sell, so it should be fairly easy to incorporated these into your art.

Cutting Millefiori Gems

Millefiori Gems can be cut using the Mosaic Glass Cutter we sell, but these are small enough to use without cutting.

Millefiori Gems 10mm-12mm

  • Price is per 2 ounces (approximately 50+ pieces)
  • Diameter: approximately 10mm to 12mm (3/8 inch to 1/2 inch).
  • Thickness: roughly 1/8 inch.
  • Coverage: each 2 ounce bag should cover roughly 5 or 6 square inches.
  • Material: glass with color throughout.
  • frost proof.
  • impervious to liquids.
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor installation.
  • Not suitable for floors.

Using Millefiori Gems In Mosaic Art

Millefiori Gems are more consistent in thickness than most millefiori assortments. They can be used in thinset mortar for mosaic art in outdoor and wet projects. For dry, indoor projects, you can attach it to backers with a high-quality white PVA adhesive like the Weldbond we sell. A pair of tweezers are indispensable for positioning the tiny pieces like these and keeping your fingertips cleaner of glues and cements.

How To Make Mosaic Art

For more advice on designing your mosaic project or mounting, cutting, and grouting tile, please see our page of Mosaic Frequently Asked Questions or our Mosaic Information Guide, which lists instructional pages described by topic. We also post new articles about making mosaics at our How to Mosaic Blog.

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Plywood Mosaic Backer Board

Sanded Plywood Mosaic Backer Board 8-inch-x-8-inchUpdate in Nov 2024:
We now cut the boards ourselves with a table saw. There may be minor imperfections on some edges, but every board is suitable as a backer for indoor mosaic art. The new boards no longer have a shiny smooth side for the back. You can choose which side you think looks nicer, and use that one for the back. Mosaic on the side that you don’t think looks as good. We still have a limited quantity of 8 x 10 size with the old glossy backs, but when they run out that will be it.

Our Plywood Mosaic Backer Boards are cut from 1/2-inch cabinet-grade plywood (either maple or birch based on availability) and are suitable for indoor mosaic projects such as plaques and trivets. The edges are unfinished cuts, which can be left as is or painted with a neutral color of acrylic paint, stained with wood stain, etc.

The faces of some boards may have small splinters missing from the sawing process, but these will be covered by the mosaic.

Plywood Mosaic Backer Boards

  • Material: cabinet-grade plywood (either maple or birch based on availability).
  • Dimensions: as stated
  • Tolerance: within 1/32 inch of nominal dimensions.
  • Thickness: Nominally 1/2 inch, exact is 15/32 of an inch
  • Suitable for dry indoor use only.

Backers for Mosaic Art Projects

Using Mosaic Backer Boards

The Mosaic Backer Boards are plywood and are meant for indoor use only.

Should You Pre-Seal The Boards?

Ideally, the bare side of the wood should be painted with dilute Weldbond or another PVA adhesive to make sure that the wood doesn’t suck water out of the grout while it is curing. You can dilute the Weldbond 1:1 with water to help it spread more easily on the wood. However, many mosaic artists get enough glue smeared over the face of the wood while they are mounting the tile, and so this step of sealing the wood with dilute glue is not necessary for them.

The important thing to remember about pre-sealing is that you would never want to use paint or wood sealers on anything else (other than a PVA glue) because these other materials are likely to interfere with the glue or delaminate over the years.

Drawing Your Pattern

The pattern for your mosaic can be drawn directly on the wood with an ordinary pencil. You should do this before coating the wood with Weldbond. If you forget, you can draw the pattern on the wood with a Sharpie marker after the dilute Weldbond dries.

Make sure that your tile doesn’t stick out beyond the edge of the wood, which would make it particularly vulnerable to being knocked loose or chipped by random blows over time.

Indoor Vs Outdoor Mosaics

Outdoors

Wood of any type including plywood should NEVER be used for outdoor mosaics and wet mosaics because wood swells and contracts with changes in humidity, which will cause tile to pop off long before the plywood begins to show signs of warping. For outdoor mosaic projects, you must use stone or concrete if you want the mosaic to last for more than a year or two. For wall murals, mount the mosaic directly on a stone or masonry wall or use concrete backer board such as sold for underlaying bathroom tiling. For garden mosaics, use slabs of field stone or concrete stepping stones. Remember to scuff these with a wire brush to remove contaminants, sealers and loose material before mounting the mosaic with thinset mortar.

Indoors

Indoor mosaics not subject to water can be made on plywood to save weight. There is no need to use stone or concrete backer board as the backer or thinset mortar to attach the tiles. Instead, the tiles can be mounted using a white PVA adhesive such as Weldbond and then grouted.

How To Make Mosaic Art

For more advice on designing your mosaic project or mounting, cutting, and grouting tile, please see our page of Mosaic Frequently Asked Questions or our Mosaic Information Guide, which lists instructional pages described by topic. We also post new articles about making mosaics at our How to Mosaic Blog.

Mosaic Art Glass Assortment 2-lbs

MAG Assortment Collage

Our Mosaic Art Glass Assortment includes 2-lbs of American-made stained glass pieces for making mosaic artwork. With opaque mosaic work surfaces in mind, we choose pieces for pigment density and opacity. These assortments offer a great way to sample a wide variety of stained glass types and colors. We also sell individual colors of stained glass in 6-inch sheets if you need an individual color. Piece size varies, but we try to cut pieces 2 to 3 inches wide, so there should be fewer pieces measuring 1 inch or less. Cutting Scrap will have smaller pieces.

  • Black White Gray – grayscale stained glass mix
  • Blue – variety of dark-to-light blue stained glass
  • Designer Neutrals and Foggy Grays – unusual odds-and-ends, muted and variegated pieces, landscape tones
  • Glass on Glass Mix Translucents and Transparents – foggy, cloudy, see-through multicolored mix**
  • Golden Amber Brown – variety of brown-beige stained glass
  • Green – variety of dark-to-light green stained glass
  • Iridized – all-iridescent multicolored mix**
  • Premium – rainbow+ assortment with red-orange-yellow, pink-purple, blue-green, brown, black and white
  • Sunset – warm gradient mix of red-orange-yellow and pink-purple
    • *All mixes may include one Ripple/textured piece. **All mixes emphasize opacity except Glass on Glass Mix, and Iridized may include clear iridescents.

    Product Coverage

    Each two-pound bag is approximately 1.25 square feet of stained glass. If you cut these pieces into mosaic tiles of about 3/4 inch or less and use a grout gap of 1/16 inch, then the bag could cover 1.5 square feet.

    Compatibility

    Stained glass is approximately 1/8 inch thick and therefore nominally the same as most of the glass mosaic tile we sell. We also have 3/4-inch stained glass tiles.

    Cutting Art Glass

    Mosaic Art Glass cuts quickly with minimal force using our Mosaic Glass Cutters. Caution: Stained glass is usually sharper than regular molded glass mosaic tile. Extra care must be used in cutting, handling, and grouting to ensure that sharp edges are not left exposed. One technique to knock off the razor slivers from freshly-cut stained glass edges (called flash or groze) is to swirl pieces around in a plastic bucket with a little water. The Rubbing Stone and Marble File we sell are useful for smoothing sharp edges and are recommended when the mosaic is for a wall or architectural element.

    The traditional stained glass artists’ tool for smoothing edges is the Grozing Pliers, but the Rubbing Stones and Marble Files produce smoother edges and can round off sharp points and corners.

    Mosaic Art Glass Assortment 2-lbs

    • Material: untumbled stained glass with sharp edges.
    • Piece size: varies, but most should be ABOUT 2 to 3 inches.
    • Thickness is nominally 1/8 inch but varies considerably, typically around +/- 1/32 inch.
    • Coverage: a 2-pound bag covers about 1.25 square feet.
    • American made.
    • Pigments: colorfast metal oxide.
    • Suitable for indoor/outdoor use.
    • Frost-proof and impermeable to liquid.
    • Not recommended for floors.
    • Colors vary based on availability, but we keep it colorful with an emphasis on brighter, stronger colors.

    Individual Colors Available As 6-Inch Sheets

    If you need an individual color or found one you especially liked in an assortment, see our 6-inch stained glass sheet selection.

    How To Make Mosaic Art

    For more advice on making mosaic art, please see our page of Mosaic Frequently Asked Questions or our Mosaic Information Guide, which lists instructional pages described by topic. We also post new articles about making mosaics at our How to Mosaic Blog.

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    Mosaic Classes

    Mosaic Master Class Group
    Mosaic master artist Frederic Lecut poses with students at the end of the Opus Pixellatum class he taught at the Mosaic Art Supply warehouse in March 2017.

    Mosaic classes are listed here by geographic area with links to the artists and organizations offering the classes.

    Mosaic Art Supply, LLC, makes no recommendation or guarantee for any of these classes. Looking at the instructor’s artwork can be a good way to tell if their class is for you. If you teach mosaic classes and would like to be added to this directory, please apply by sending an email to us: [email protected]

    Still having trouble finding a mosaic class in your city? Visit our page for how to find mosaic classes in your local area.

    Classes Within the U.S.A.

    ARKANSAS

    Alice Frank
    Mosaic Maddness
    Hot Springs, AR
    [email protected]
    Mosaic Maddess offers classes throughout the state of Arkansas in conjunction with Spread Your Wings Mosaics. These “Mobile Madness” classes can be ongoing (weekly or monthly), or a one-time project. Classes are tailored to the participants, and range in difficulty accordingly. 501-321-1110

    CALIFORNIA

    Kim Emerson
    San Diego Mosaic School
    San Diego, CA
    www.kimemersonmosaics.com
    The mission at the San Diego Mosaic School is to educate and inspire everyone about the medium of mosaics as a fine art. Every level of mosaic experience is welcome. All you need is a passion for color, texture, an openness for creativity, and originality. We focus on cutting, placement of “tesserae”, compositional design, and comparing ancient Roman mosaics to the contemporary while using many different types of beautiful materials. We are located in the Normal Heights community of San Diego, California, USA.
    Katherine England
    Katherine’s Studio
    Orange County, CA
    www.katherineengland.com
    Katherine has classes for beginners and more advanced students covering basic mosaic techniques, mosaic garden sculptures, soldering stained glass, and fused glass. She also offers drawing and painting instruction.
    Nancy Howells
    Painted Chair Studio
    Santa Cruz, CA
    www.paintedchairstudio.com
    Nancy has been teaching mosaics at her studio in Santa Cruz, Ca for the past 20 years. She offers a variety of mosaic classes that include working in tiles, plates, ceramics, stained and fused glass. They are designed not only for beginners but also mastering more complicated sculptural projects. Nancy also makes a line of ceramic pieces that can be included in the mosaic projects. The large indoor studio and garden provide a relaxing and creative space, just a few blocks from the beaches in Santa Cruz.
    Love Apple Farms
    Love Apple Farms Gardening and Cooking Educational Center
    Santa Cruz, CA
    www.growbetterveggies.com
    The Love Apple Farms Educational Center offers classes for making a pique assiette garden stepping stone from your own broken china, crockery, tile, etc. Advance registration is required. Classes are held rain or shine.
    Michael Kruzich
    Michael Kruzich
    San Francisco, CA
    www.mkmosaics.com
    Mosaics are making a comeback as artists all over the world are rediscovering ancient techniques and stretching those to new and modern expressions. I invite you to explore this timeless art-form by studying classical principles and techniques handed down through the centuries by mosaic masters. From these ancient core techniques the student/artist develops a solid, yet ever-expanding knowledge from which to move forward into more contemporary applications if they choose. I hope to welcome you to one of my classes or workshops in this marvelous and meticulous art-form.
    Tami Macala
    Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art
    Santa Barbara, CA
    www.santabarbaraschoolofmosaicart.com
    Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art was founded in 2009 by mosaic artist Tami Macala. Tami has over 15 years experience as a professional mosaic artist and shares her knowledge and expertise with every workshop. SBSMA is located in beautiful Santa Barbara, California, and hosts many talented artists from all over the world as guest instructors. SBSMA offers weekend workshops in a variety of mosaic art styles.
    Fred and Donnell Pasion
    Passiflora Mosaics
    Grover Beach, CA
    www.passifloramosaics.com
    Since 2004 Fred and Donnell Pasion have taught hundreds of hands-on workshops, introducing thousands to mosaic art and concrete styrofoam sculpture. Whichever workshop you choose, you will discover why these weekend workshops held in their spacious studio have become so popular! Ideal for all skill levels from first-timers to seasoned hobbyists and professionals who want to refine their skills. Choose a project and you will be guided through the mosaic-making process from start to finish.
    Karen Stilton
    Mosaic Morphosis
    Woodland Hills, CA
    www.mosaicmorphosis.com
    Karen Silton is a SAMA member at the Professional level and a professional ceramic tile and mosaic artist for 15 years. She offers high quality mosaic classes for children and adults from beginner through advanced levels in a very supportive environment. A large variety of materials including handmade ceramics, glass fusions, mirror, smalti, gold, vitreous glass and millefiori are available as well. Individual interests encouraged. Classes are small. Private instruction available also.

    COLORADO

    Lily Russo
    Lily Russo
    Durango, CO
    lilymosaics.com
    Lily Russo is a mosaic artist with over 12 years experience. She offers beginner through advanced classes on stained glass and tile mosaics in Durango, Colorado and Tepoztlan, Mexico.

    CONNECTICUT

    Cynthia Fisher
    Cynthia Fisher
    Charlemont, MA
    www.bigbangmosaics.com
    I teach the basics of the indirect method with vitreous glass. I love to teach and am eager to help others discover the pleasures of working in mosaic. Beginners to advanced, classes and one-on-one workshops. I teach at various art centers in New England, including the Worcester Art Museum, MA, Snow Farm Craft Center, MA, Brookfield Craft Center, CT and in my studio in Charlemont, MA.

    FLORIDA

    MIY Ceramics
    MIY Ceramics
    Hollywood, FL
    miyceramics.com
    MIY Ceramics offers classes in mosaic, pottery, glass fusing, and painting. Craft parties and children’s classes are available.
    Laure Norton
    Beach Life Mosaics
    Jacksonville, FL
    www.beachlifemosaics.com
    Mosaic artist Laure Norton offers a variety of instructional formats including private mosaic parties and children’s classes.
    Heather Richardson
    Safety Harbor Art and Music Center
    Safety Harbor, FL
    safetyharborartandmusiccenter.com
    Create your own mosaic panel with mosaic artist Heather Richardson in this day-long workshop that will give a crash course to newbies and teach seasoned mosaic artists a few new tricks. All materials included, please bring safety glasses/goggles and rubber gloves. Private classes or private smaller group classes are available please contact Heather for more information [email protected] or call 727-424-2576
    Susanne Vernon
    Susanne Vernon Mosaics
    Gulfport, FL
    www.susannevernon.com
    Susanne Vernon Mosaics offers project based mosaic classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced students. Projects vary as do material, so please check the classes page on our website for current workshops. Children’s classes and individual instruction are also available.

    GEORGIA

    Callanwolde
    Callanwolde
    Atlanta, GA
    www.callanwolde.org
    This organization has offered mosaic classes in the past, and may still offer them from time to time.
    Spruill Arts Center
    Spruill Arts Center
    Atlanta, GA
    www.spruillarts.org
    This organization has offered mosaic classes in the past, and may still offer them from time to time.

    ILLINOIS

    The Chicago Mosaic School
    The Chicago Mosaic School
    Chicago, IL
    www.chicagomosaicschool.com
    Providing an arts education and fostering the creation of Mosaic Art using both ancient and contemporary techniques.

    INDIANA

    Maren Bell
    The Art Lab
    Carmel, Indiana
    [email protected]
    Teaches introductory mosaics workshops and offers workshops to create mosaic coasters and small frames at our location and local breweries in the area. Classes use a variety of glass tiles, millefiori and metallic shapes.

    KENTUCKY

    Pamela McGlone
    Glass With Sass
    Flemingsburg, Kentucky
    pammcglone.com
    Pamela has multiple project-oriented classes available, including a stained glass mosaic window class, and a class for garden stepping stones. She can also schedule group project classes, such as team building exercises or classes for church groups.

    LOUISIANA

    Laurel True
    True Mosaics Studio
    New Orleans, LA
    www.truemosaics.com
    Laurel True teaches mosaic classes for all levels at the New Orleans School of Art and Craft.

    MASSACHUSETTS

    Cheryl Cohen
    Cheryl Cohen Mosaics Art Center
    Holliston, MA
    www.cherylcohenmosaics.com
    Cheryl Cohen Mosaics, for beginners and master artists alike, is a combination of great art, expert instruction and a fun and supportive community. Our 800+ square foot studio a mosaic artist’s dream, filled to the brim with plates to smash, stained glass to cut, and charms, beads, costume jewelry, shells, rocks and more, to create something small like coasters or picture frames for your home, or a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Multiple weekly classes are available for adults and children.
    Cynthia Fisher
    Big Bang Mosaics
    Charlemont, MA
    www.bigbangmosaics.com
    I teach the basics of the indirect method with vitreous glass. I love to teach and am eager to help others discover the pleasures of working in mosaic. Beginners to advanced, classes and one-on-one workshops. I teach at various art centers in New England, including the Worcester Art Museum, MA, Snow Farm Craft Center, MA, Brookfield Craft Center, CT and in my studio in Charlemont, MA.
    Caren Fishman
    Caren Zane Fishman Workshops
    Allston, MA
    carenzanefishman.com
    Students learn about the process of creating mosaics; from the use of color and placement of tile to composition, and technical aspects of grouting and completing the piece. Students will learn while doing, through demonstrations and lots of hands on time.
    Bette Ann Libby
    Bette Ann Libby Mosaics and Ceramic Sculpture
    Chestnut Hill, MA
    betteannlibby.com
    Bette Ann gives classes around 6 times a year with a focus on ceramic shard mosaics and sculpture. [email protected] 617-327-5171
    Suzanne Baratta Owayda
    Mosaic Oasis Studio & Supply
    Arlington, MA
    www.mosaicoasis.com
    On-going introductory classes (5 different sessions per week) that will prepare students to start their own project in a bright and cheerful studio. Also offers more involved workshops.

    MICHIGAN

    Adam Begley
    Adam Begley Mosaic Design at the Grand Traverse Art Center
    Traverse City, MI
    www.adambegleymosaics.com
    This basic instructional workshop offers the beginner a solid foundation in the materials and methods necessary for doing traditional mosaic artwork. Please call or e-mail as we always arrange courses on a personal basis.

    MINNESOTA

    Sheryl Tourila
    Sheryl Tourila Artist
    Minneapolis, MN
    www.sheryltuorila.com
    Small classes ensure a relaxed, fun, no pressure atmosphere for students to explore and develop their own individual creativity. A complete overview of mosaics including hands-on experience as students create one-of-a-kind custom wall panels. Explore the wide variety of mosaic materials in this class: ceramic tile, stained glass, china, and found objects. Introduction to adhesives, sources for materials and substrates. All materials included but students are encouraged to bring treasures of their own. Work outside of class may be necessary.

    MISSOURI

    Laura Rendlen
    Kansas City Mosaics
    925 West 17th St.
    Kansas City MO
    www.KansasCityMosaics.com
    3 Hour Basic Mosaics
    This class is aimed at playing with the materials, learning the tools and adhesives. The first step in finding out that this is the most addictive art form ever.
    Monthly 2nd and 4th Saturdays

    MONTANA

    Patty Franklin
    Patty Franklin Mosaics
    Hamilton, Montana
    www.pattyfranklinmosaics.com
    Patty’s highly personalized style of instruction is a great beginning to learning the basics of making a direct method, stained glass, mosaic. You will learn about the wide variety of materials and where to purchase them, the various cutting tools and how to use them, which adhesive to use for what substrates, how to design a cartoon that will translate into a mosaic, the correct way to place the glass for a beautiful flow and, you’ll receive written directions for grouting (which color and how to mix, apply, and clean up). You’ll also get the all-important dos and don’ts that Patty has accumulated over a 15 – year career in contemporary mosaic arts. This is a relaxed, fun, no pressure, hands-on 3 hour session that allows you to explore a wonderfully meditative art form. Included in the fee are all of the materials needed to do a 10” by 10” mosaic design. (Students are encouraged to bring their own treasures.)

    NEW JERSEY

    Eleanor
    Designs by Eleanor
    Towaco, NJ
    www.designsbyeleanor.com
    Eleanor teaches how to create a mosaic art classes for kids and adults in Towaco, New Jersey.
    Wendy Erdmann
    Dune Grass Mosaics
    Whitehouse Station, NJ
    dunegrassmosaics.com
    Accepts students at all levels, from beginner to advanced. All materials provided. Students learn the art of mosaics, how to design a project, how to cut and set tile, grouting and clean-up. Each student leaves with a beautiful finished product.

    NEW MEXICO

    Jill Gatwood
    Miraflores Mosaics
    Albuquerque, NM
    www.mirafloresmosaics.com
    Jill is a prolific mosaic artist. She has been teaching mosaic classes for many years, and has more classes coming up in 2023. Most of Jill’s classes are project-based, and she has a variety of project classes to choose from.
    [email protected]

    NEW YORK

    Angele and Yakov Hanansen
    Unicorn Art Studio, Inc.
    New York, NY
    www.mosaicmaster.com
    Unicorn Art Studio, Inc. has been offering mosaics classes in New York City for over 15 years. Classes are for people of all ages, beginners and those with some experience. Variety of mosaic techniques are explored in full depth. A wide range of materials is available for use in class: glass, smalti, ceramic tiles, china, stone. You are welcome to visit the studio prior to signing up! No previous mosaic making experience is required in order to take a class!
    Mosaic Workshop at Union Square Art Studio
    Union Square Art Studio
    New York, NY
    www.newyorkartworld.com
    Beginners and advanced students welcome. Workshops offered on Wednesday afternoons and evenings.

    NORTH CAROLINA

    Linda Pannullo
    Linda Pannullo Mosaics
    Ashville, NC
    www.lindapannullomosaics.com
    Linda offers workshops with visiting mosaic artists of note in beautiful Ashville, NC.

    OREGON

    Denny Nkemontoh
    Denny’s Workshop at Helvetia Farms
    Hillsboro, OR
    www.dennys-workshop.com
    Denny offers beginning mosaic classes — including glass on glass, ceramic, and polymer clay. In addition, she periodicaly hosts special classes featuring guest instructors such as Kelley Knickerbocker and Christian Peres Gibaut. The studio sometimes offers open hours, as listed on the website.

    PENNSYLVANIA

    Carol Shelkin
    Carol Shelkin Mosaics
    Philadelphia, PA
    www.carolshelkinmosaics.com
    A variety of mosaic techniques and materials are explored. Carol has been teaching art for over 25 years and has fine art professional training. She offers mosaic workshops, private lessons on all levels throughout the Philadelphia area and specialty workshops nationwide and worldwide including: Canada, Costa Rica, Australia and Mexico.

    TEXAS

    Michele Patrick
    Mosaics by Michele Studio
    Houston, TX
    www.mosaicsbymichele.com
    Monthly basic and intermediate classes offered. Wide range of materials used, students learn basic and intermediate design, setting, cutting, grouting techniques. Tools and material provided.

    VERMONT

    Burlington Community Glass Studio
    Burlington Community Glass Studio
    Burlington, VT
    www.burlingtonglass.net
    We offer a variety of stained glass design and mosaic design classses. Classes vary from 15 week 3 credit college level class to 3 hour workshops. Please call or e-mail for dates and times of upcoming classes 802-324-4019.
    Bette Ann Libby
    Bette Ann Libby Mosaics and Ceramic Sculpture
    Waitsfield, VT betteannlibby.com Bette Ann has a studio in Vermont where she gives mosaic workshops in the summer during the Vermont Festival of the Arts. [email protected] 802-496-3639

    VIRGINIA

    Anita Bucsay Damron
    Anita Bucsay Damron Fine Art
    Reston, VA
    www.anitadamron.com
    Anita is a prolific working artist showing at multiple galleries, and she offers mosaic classes at The Reston Community Center, The Art League School (Torpedo Factory) Madison Street Annex, and The Workhouse Art Center (Lorton).

    During COVID-19 Anita has also added LIVE online classes to her offerings.

    Bonnie Fitzgerald
    Maverick Mosaics
    Vienna, VA
    www.maverickmosaics.com
    Maverick Mosaics specializes in unique learning experiences and creating beautiful art. Our educational focus is to Open Doors to your Creativity and help you Discover your Artistic Voice. We are dedicated to nurturing and expanding creative expression through the art and community of mosaic. Maverick Mosaics offers a variety of workshops and learning opportunities for all ages and skill levels, and we’re honored to host the region’s broadest schedule of acclaimed mosaic artists from around the world who share their talent and masterful techniques. We host art retreats and International travel adventures.

    WASHINGTON

    Kelley Knickerbocker
    Rivenworks Mosaics
    Seattle, WA
    www.rivenworksmosaics.com
    Kelley offers multilevel classes in glass mosaic, including her signature textured glass and stacked glass techniques. Kelley also offers one-on-one instruction tailored to specific interests, from design and cutting to architectural applications. Volunteers interested in gaining experience by assisting with commissions in the studio are welcome.
    Jennifer Kuhns
    JK Mosaics
    Southwest WA
    jkmosaic.com
    Jennifer Kuhns has installed architectural mosaic throughout the U.S., for private, corporate and public clients. She also creates some portable artwork and garden mosaic, and she offers classes in techniques ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Jennifer’s specialties are precision glass scoring and techniques for mosaic installation, including exterior considerations.

    Classes Outside the U.S.


    ITALY

    Lucio Orsoni and Antonella Gallenda
    Orsoni Smalti Veneziani
    Venice, Italy
    www.orsoni.com
    Orsoni offers two-week thematic courses in micro-mosaic and portraiture as well as a Master in Mosaic course which is offered as either a 1 week, 2 week, or 3 day workshop. The Master course is accredited through the International Interior Design Association and a Master certificate is awarded to those who complete the 1 or 2 week course.

    MEXICO

    Nancy Shelby
    Hacienda Mosaico
    Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
    www.haciendamosaico.com
    Shelby Glass Studio of California in conjunction with Hacienda Mosaico offers a weeklong workshop for beginners and intermediate levels in wonderful Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This workshop includes highly personalized instruction in a non competitive, creative atmosphere. Included in the tuition are all materials, a beautiful room and breakfast and lunch prepared by our own chef. This year Shelby is offering a Mosaic Mask Workshop: A Mixed Media Event! Contact Shelby at [email protected] for more information.
    Nina Di Giovanni
    Nina Di Giovanni Mosaics
    San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
    www.ninadigiovanni.com
    Offers 3-5 day workshops in contemporary, Byzantine, and Pre-Columbian mosaics. Nina is an award-winning mosaic artist and educator, Ravenna trained with over 20 years experience in contemporary and traditional mosaic. Classes are located in a beautiful historical artist’s paradise – San Miguel de Allende – a safe and welcoming place in the heart of Mexico.

    NEW ZEALAND

    Peter Smith
    Waiohiki Art Centre
    Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
    www.waiohikiartsvillage.com
    Artist Peter Smith teaches mosaic classes at the Waiohiki Art Centre in Hawkes Bay.

    UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

    Selina Royce
    Dubai, U.A.E
    Mosaic Art By Selina
    Selina has been doing mosaic art over a decade and participated in various exhibitions in U.A.E.

    UNITED KINGDOM

    Concetta Perot
    Glittering Shards
    London, UK
    www.glitteringshards.com
    Evening Workshops, weekday Mosaic Maker Drop-In’s and one-to-one classes in South London. weekly evening mosaic workshops in 7 week blocks. Each evening runs from 8-10pm at the studio of mosaic artist, Concetta Perot, in Tooting, London SW17. The course is suitable for all levels and small classes ensure lots of individual attention. During the course you can expect to make a small mosaic and gain knowledge about the variety of mosaic materials, tools, techniques, glues, suppliers, different mosaic methods and various do’s and don’ts. Concetta also runs Mosaic Maker Drop-In’s on Thursday mornings: you can come whenever you are able and take advantage of learning, resources and being exposed to the work of others for inspiration.
    Davie Davidson
    DRAW (Drumchapel Arts Workshop)
    Glasgow, Lanarkshire & Scotland, UK
    www.draw.org.uk
    The class covers a brief history and styles of mosaics with step by step help planning and creating your mosaic art piece.

    Mosaic Tool and Supply Info

    Summaries of some of the most important tools and supplies we offer for working with mosaic tile.

    The mosaic supplies you need depend on the type of mosaic tile you are using (glass or ceramic or stone) and how you plan to install them. Five minutes of reading can save you five hours of frustration on your mosaic project.

    For a complete listing of tweezers, sponges, gloves, dental picks, spatulas, etc., visit our mosaic tools page.

    mosaic glass cutter
    The glass cutter nips off pieces of glass.

    Mosaic Glass Cutter

    The most important tool for working with glass mosaic tile is the Mosaic Glass Cutter, which is a compression tool like a tile nipper, but the replaceable blades are shaped like wheels.

    While a regular tile nipper tends to crush and splinter glass tile, the Mosaic Glass Cutter allows the artist to make cleaner, more precise cuts. (Tile Nippers were made for ceramic materials.) With proper use, the wheel-shaped blades stay sharp and effective for hundreds and hundreds of hours of use.

    We also sell replacement blades.

    weldbond adhesive 160ml
    Weldbond dries strong and clear.

    Weldbond

    An amazing product. Weldbond is a water-based adhesive that looks and handles just like plain white glue yet cures stronger than many of the smelly solvent-based glues. The manufacturer’s brochure calls Weldbond “the most versatile, non-toxic, non-flammable adhesive on the North American market.” We don’t think this is an exaggeration. Weldbond is probably the most-used adhesive among mosaic artists with no close second. It bonds to hundreds of different materials and is very water-resistant once it dries.

    The new 160ml bottle (pictured) is light weight and easy to handle, but we also sell a 420ml bottle and 3 litre jug. We recommend using the jug to refill one of the smaller bottles. Easy clean-up with soap and water.

    Note that Weldbond is very water resistant but not water proof. Artists use Weldbond for back-splashes and vertical surfaces where water can drain off, but you shouldn’t use it for shower floors or pools or fountains. For outdoor and wet mosaics, use thinset mortar instead of adhesives.

    2lb container of grout
    Sanded grout. Just add water.

    Grout

    Our grout is a traditional portland-cement grout that includes sand. Sand is needed for strength when the gaps between tiles are 1/8″ or greater, but sanded grout can also be used when the gaps are smaller. All of the mosaics at the Riverson gallery were made with sanded grout.

    Choosing A Grout Color

    Grout can totally change the look of a mosaic, and it is possible to ruin a mosaic with the wrong color grout. To make the individual tiles stand out visually, you have to choose a grout color that CONTRASTS the colors of the tiles. Avoid choices like grey grout with grey tile. In my experience, a grout with some color almost always looks better than white grout.

    How Much Grout Do I Need?

    The amount needed depends as much on the gaps between the tiles as it does the total area. If your gaps are the standard 1/16 inch, then you will probably use less than 1 lb. of grout per square foot. If you have thick tile with large gaps, you could use over 1.5 lb. Keep in mind that you have to budget extra for all of the wasted grout that falls off the sides of the mosaic.

    Fiberglass Mesh

    mosaic tile mesh 38.5 inch wide x 150 feet
    Fiberglass mesh can be used for laying down tile in advance for rapid installation.

    Ceramic and Marble File

    ceramic marble file
    Ceramic and marble file for smoothing and shaping sharp edges formed by cutting tile.

    Grouting Bags

    Grouting Bag
    Grouting Bags are for dispensing grout and thinset neatly for detailed work.

    Compound Tile Nipper

    Compound Tile Nipper
    Compound Tile Nipper for cutting extremely hard tile, porcelain, and stone.

    Using Fiberglass Mesh

    Fiberglass Mesh

    Mosaics are sometimes laid up on a thin and flexible fiberglass mesh for rapid installation. Tiles are glued to the mesh using a white PVA adhesive such as the Weldbond brand adhesive we sell. Once the mosaic is assembled on the mesh, the mosaic artwork can be pressed into thinset mortar or adhesive and mounted to the surface to be covered.

    Our mesh is sold in uncut lengths like fabric in linear feet. The roll is 38 inches wide, so each linear foot actually gives you 3 square feet of mesh.

    When Not To Use Mesh

    If your mosaic will be in a pool or shower floor, you may want to avoid mesh because it involves glue to attach the tile to the mesh. For these “wet” mosaics, you lay them up face down on mounting paper using a temporary glue such as Elmer’s School Glue in what is called the “reverse method” because you glue the tiles upside down on paper. These finished sheets are pressed into thinset mortar, which is allowed to harden overnight, and the next day the paper is misted and removed. Note that this is different from how fiberglass mesh is used, which goes underneath the tile and is permanent. Most people prefer mesh to paper because the “reverse method” of using paper means that you have to lay out your mosaic upside down.

    When You Can Use Mesh

    Note that mesh and glue CAN be used on kitchen and bathroom back-splashes and other vertical surfaces where water does not pool. You CAN use mesh for dry indoor floors, walls, etc. You CAN use mesh for mosaic tables and plaques, but why would you? Sometimes it makes sense to draw your pattern on the surface to be mosaiced and simply start gluing tile to it.

    Mosaic Butterfly by Caroline Lahman
    Mosaic Butterfly by Caroline Lahman

    Caroline laid this butterfly mosaic up on fiberglass mesh. It is ready to be installed. In this instance, the artist glued the background tile around the butterfly on the same mesh. However, if she wasn’t doing that sort of background she could have trimmed away the surrounding mesh and used the mosaic butterfly as an insert into a space in existing tiling.

    completed butterfly mosaic
    Caroline’s completed butterfly after installation.

    Tips for using mosaic tile mesh:

    • Tape a piece of clear plastic or kitchen wrap over the top of your pattern so that you don’t accidentally glue the mosaic tile mesh to the pattern or work table.
    • It may be easier to work in small sections, such as 1 ft x 1 ft, than to lay the entire mosaic on one piece of mesh
    • Some people lay the mosaic on one large sheet of mesh, and then cut this sheet with a box cutter to make it easier to mount to the wall.

    Mosaic Glues

    420ml Weldbond
    420ml Weldbond
    120ml Weldbond
    120ml Weldbond
    3 liter Weldbond
    3 liter Weldbond
    Thinset Mortar
    Thinset Mortar
    Spatula Set
    Spatula Set
    Dental Pick SHARP
    Dental Pick Sharp
    Dental Pick Set
    Dental Pick Set
    Tools & Kits
    Tools & Kits

    Choosing the right adhesive for your mosaic

    Picking the correct adhesive or glue is a very important decision when starting a mosaic, possibly the most important. If you choose the wrong one, your mosaic will not last as long as it should.

    The best way to make a decision is to understand the different choices of adhesives and which ones works better with certain surfaces and tesserae. The primary deciding factor will be where the mosaic will live once it is complete: indoors or outdoors.

    Indoor mosaic glue

    Mosaic Mirror by Natalija Moss
    Most mosaics intended for indoor use such as this mirror can be made using Weldbond and sanded grout.
    weldbond adhesive 160ml
    Weldbond Adhesive 160ml (5.4oz) the best mosaic glue made.

    Weldbond is the best. It’s a water based PVA glue, has no fumes, dries clear and water resistant, bonds to most any surface, is non-toxic and cleans up easily. We’ve extensively tested it, which you can read about here. However, I prefer to use thinset bonding mortar for floors. It gives a more stable and durable walking surface and better resists water seepage when cleaning the floors.

    Outdoor mosaic glue

    Red Stained Glass Flower Flagstone
    Thinset is the best adhesive for outdoor mosaics such as this garden stone.

    In choosing adhesive for outdoor mosaics, it’s probably best to avoid adhesives altogether and use thinset mortar (a sticky concrete with added polymers) instead. To use thinset, you should read and follow the instructions on the package for mixing, handling and disposal. We also have a guide to using thinset. In brief, thinset is like grout and other concrete products. This means that the best place to mix them up is outside, and you should wear a dust mask if have trouble mixing it up without creating a lot of dust. (Our artists merely stand upwind and mist it with a spray bottle until they get it mixed up.)

    I usually mix up about 1 or 2 pounds at a time and smear it on the wall with a small trowel or putty knife. I spread it out to about 1/8″ to 1/4″ thick and press my mixed materials directly into the concrete. I wear rubber examination gloves and keep a damp rag so I can wipe away any excess that squeezes up to the face of the tiles. If you keep the concrete in the bucket covered so that it doesn’t dry out, then it should stay workable for several hours. I made the mosaic columns at the gallery using thinset mortar in this way. I always keep a small bucket with a little water and rag to clean my hands from time to time and a dry rag in my lap.

    See our illustrated grouting tutorial for more details.

    At this time, we no longer recommend using a construction adhesives in an outdoor environment. Use adhesives other than thinset at your own risk.

    Read more about outdoor mosaic considerations.

    Glue for marbles and round stones

    Marbles and round stones can be a challenge. Unless they are being pressed into cement face-up on a horizontal surface like stepping stones, the right adhesive choice is important. You may be able to use a thick cosntruction adhesive for this purpose, though it isn’t recommended to do this for outdoor mosaics. It is probably best to use thinset in these cases.

    Understanding Different Types of Mosaic Adhesives

    PVA Glues

    PVA glues like Welbond are water soluble adhesives that will clean up with water. PVA glues should not be used on any outdoor project. Even if it isn’t exposed to rain, humidity can also loosen the bond. When working in the indirect method, PVA glue can be used to adhere tiles to fiberglass mesh. It also bonds well with any type of tile and wooden or acrylic surfaces. Again, Weldbond is the best and it dries clear.

    Thinset Mortar

    Thinset is a sticky cement which can be messy to work with, but it is necessary for outdoor projects if you want them to hold up. It can be found at any hardware store, and is often only sold in large quantities. The best surfaces for thinset are porous, such as cement, cement backerboard, and wood and terracotta. To use with non-porous surfaces like glass, the thinset has to be mixed with admixes instead of water, which are either latex or acrylic liquids that make the thinset sticky. Premixed thinset is not as good as dry mix.

    sun catchers made with silicone
    Stained glass was glued with clear silicone to square pieces of clear glass to make these sun catchers.
    Silicone

    Silicone is used most often on glass surfaces because it comes in transparent varieties. It usually comes in a caulking tube and can take some time to get used to. It is difficult to remove and if you apply too much, it will come up between the tiles and make grouting more difficult and incomplete. When used under larger sheets, the areas towards the inside may never cure completely.

    Epoxy

    Epoxy is used on metal surfaces, but works on wood and glass also. It can hold up outdoors in ideal conditions, but it is very difficult to use and has a noxious odor. Once it is mixed, it must be used quickly. But when it is used successfully and correctly, it is a very strong adhesive and it dries clear.

    Other Glues

    In speaking with other mosaic artists, you will likely find that everyone has their own preferences for adhesives and that they are used in different ways from artist to artist. Understanding the characteristics of each type of adhesive will help you in finding the best solution for you in your various projects. When working with a new glue, be sure it is what you need for your project. Is it for interior or exterior, is it toxic, and will it work with your surface? Other than Welbond, the most popular brands for mosaics are Liquid Nails, MacGlue, and Gorilla Glue. Once you’ve experimented with several types of adhesives, you will get a feel for what you prefer and what works best.

    NOTE

    Always clean up excess glue before you grout. After water soluble glue has dried for a day or two, I come back and mist the mosaic with water. After about 10 minutes, any traces of glue that are sticking up on the sides of the tile will start to turn white. I then take a razor knife like a box cutter or exacto knife and trim away the excess glue. This cleaning step ensures that there will be no glue sticking up and not covered by grout.