FIVE WAYS TO MAKE MOSAICS | Find the mosaic method that works for you

[@SwtGrnEyed86]

Very informational!! Thank you so much for this video! I'm new to mosaics (other than what we did in art class in school), but I've always wanted to give it a go. I've been watching your videos for helpful information, and you've definitely supplied it! So thanks again!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

You're very welcome Sonja! I hope this is the start of great things 😀

[@MsK-xm7vw]

Firsst, let me say, you are absolutely the best teacher I have ever seen! And, I'm not a young lady and homeschooled my own children. With that being said, there is another method you haven't mentioned, undoubtedly because it's a lot of technique and hard to find the recipe for ... the Vienna method with a lime plaster base that stays malable for months. The piece is then transfered using the double reverse transfer method. I have wanted to go to Europe for years to study under one of the few artist's who teach the original Roman methods... I wish that ancient skill was still common knowledge for Mosaic Artists of today ( who don't have thousands to study the craft abroad). Thank you for teaching the methods we have today to all who want to learn the right way, we hope Mosaics will continue through people like you for millennia to come.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Thank you for your lovely comment and for pointing out the missing method. I quite agree with you about the importance of the Ravenna method and how difficult it is to find someone who teaches it. In fact, like you, I have always wanted to learn this method and am currently applying for funding to go to Ravenna to study it. Fingers crossed!

[@sinemguven7797]

I would like to thank you for your all informative videos. Very clear and understandable teaching. I have just started to mosaic so all these are very useful for me. Thank you so much.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

You are very welcome Sinem! Thanks for your comment :)

[@teresa-ux8db]

One of the most valuable 10 minutes I've had on mosaic!!! New subbie now 🎉

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Welcome aboard! Thanks so much. 😀

[@33Donner77]

Thanks. I'll use the first method on a mosaic I received in the mail that arrived partly in some pieces. Fortunately I have a previous photo for placement of all the pieces.

[@themessycrafter4893]

Love your tutorials. I'm a beginner in mosaics and your videos are such help! Thank you

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Thanks for this! :)

[@SuperBrowndog1]

Easy to understand your directions. Thank you.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad it was helpful! 🌸

[@elizaw2268]

This is so useful!! Thank you for explaining everything so well and clearly

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I'm so glad it was helpful! 😀

[@LisaCitarella]

Thank you very much. You answered some of my questions. For the flour and water glue to do the upside down method, what is the recipe? Thanks

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I'm glad it was helpful. Here is the recipe: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eX6xgmB8iMyMg68

[@Phoneuser4ever]

Helen Miles out here save’n lives 😂 Amazing explanation!!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad to have been of help! 😀

[@pamjedlicka8451]

Thank you!!! Your video was very helpful for this newbee who (I think) has gotten herself in a jam trying to cut already tiny pieces of glass for a small first project.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I hope you managed to get yourself out of your jam Pam! 😀

[@lostandfoundsheep]

So with the fiberglass mesh method, you say you install it on site.. what types of installation options are there? Can you grout? Can you lay it directly in concrete?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Yes, you spread a thin layer of outdoor grade tile adhesive onto the surface where the mosaic will be installed and press the mosaic into it. The adhesive will come up between the tiles and some might even go on the surface but you wipe it away, then wait for the adhesive to dry and grout it in the normal way,.

[@ewamaria8543]

Great video! I couldn’t find anything like this in Polish. It was soooo helpful!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I'm so glad! 😀

[@skimpylemon8034]

Thank you for taking the time to demonstrate the various methods to construct mosaics! I'm 23 with no artistry background but I want to learn this craft and create some awesome designs for friends and family. Subscribed as well. 👌

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

That's so nice to hear! 😀

[@skimpylemon8034]

@@HelenMilesMosaics Yep, please keep the content coming! It's great!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

@@skimpylemon8034 Will do!

[@shirleyjenkins11]

Ive been wanting to tile my tile my frint porch but my back refuses to cooperate. Your methods have given me a way to go about it that might be achievable. Thank you..

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad to hear it! Definitely don't try to do it on your hands and knees but make it at the studio table and install in one go. Or even, get someone else to install 😀

[@AmeliaJohannsen]

Thank you so much for the overview. This is just what I was looking for!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lizziewebb29]

Very easy to learn from this expert, explained well.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad it was helpful!

[@anniesebastian2520]

Wonderful video.... very precise and informative. .. going to try some of your methods. Thank you so much....

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

So nice of you to comment and I am glad that you liked it! 🌸

[@RobertoAyalaAgui]

GRACIAS POR COMPARTIR SUS CONOCIMIENTOS, QUE TENGA UN EXELENTE DIA

[@meredithdonnachie282]

I'm making mosaics for my final year project and this was a massive help, thank you!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

You're most welcome Meredith! 😀

[@paulbouchard9521]

Your designs look so classic. Thanks for making these.

[@neusaniemann7462]

Love your videos!!! Thank you.

[@facesbyjulietprofessionalf8186]

Thank you so much for these wonderful videos! I'm wanting to know if I can use the paper method to tile a mosaic around my bathtub. We purchased ceramic tiles, chopped them up into bit, and plan to create a mosaic with them. It seems that I would have the easiest time making my mosaic on paper and then pressing it onto the wall around the bathtub. Especially because I would prefer a flat surface if possible. And I was thinking of pressing the tiles-on-paper into a thinset. Am I right to do it this way, or is there a better method?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

So sorry for the late reply on this Juliet. I don't know if you've done your bathroom yet but yes the paper backed would work for your broken bathroom tiles. I would do a practice first so that you get the hang of it but it's not hard to do. Good luck!

[@NicoleHarris-u1q]

I loved this video , very informative . Well presented

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad you liked it!

[@salmasheikh5662]

Very informative and well explained. Thank you

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad it was helpful!

[@cannabis1490]

After completing what you've done, what adhesive can be used to stick the mesh to a tiled shower wall, say, and then I'd grout it after glueing it to the (tiled) wall? Thanks.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I wouldn't necessarily advise sticking the mesh to tiles but if you do so then I would choose a silicone glue that is recommended for wet areas. I haven't done this myself so it's best to read the manufacturer's information on the tube to make sure it will do the job.

[@cannabis1490]

@@HelenMilesMosaics Thanks Helen. Great channel.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

@@cannabis1490 You're very welcome!

[@sherrybradshaw5099]

Thank you for your video. I have a question. I saw a mosaic vase that was grouted with a very very rough grout. Would you have any ideas on what additive I could use?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

You mean you want to replicate the rough look? I would add fine washed sand if you can get your hands on any.

[@mujededalvi]

Please madam , accept my heartiest appreciations for delivering remarkable knowledge and skills although its a tiny thing to say that in front of you. Please keep it up for the sake of mosaics lovers. Salute you madam.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Thanks for your lovely comment Muhammed 😀

[@barbarawhittall2311]

Thank you was quite interesting would enjoy learning more!!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad you enjoyed it Barbara!

[@Steifff]

You Are a lovely Person, so thanks for your advice and help....i subed for Sure and keep up the tiles...

[@oldtykesmith2317]

gives me an insight into Mosaics Most interesting

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Thanks! I hope it helped. 😀

[@Tara_thatonegirl]

I am new to mosaics and want to Mosiac my bathtub walls using primarily broken plates/ some precut glass tiles. Ambitious, I know!! 😅 What method would you suggest? I am leaning towards the first (glue directly). (I am currently working on my first project-a kit from Intessere.) I love the medium!! My grandma did extensive stained glass, so I’m hoping it runs in the family - the beauty of it all!!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Really the only method that you can use with broken plates is the tile adhesive/thinset method as the plates will be different thicknesses. I dont think I have done a full video on this method but here is short one on preparing the paste - basically you'll be spreading it directly on the wall and pressing the china/glass tiles into it. Hope that helps! kzbin.info/www/bejne/sIK7Xp2dltqKeZo

[@margaretadorno4856]

Can you advise how to transfer a design onto a surface in order to use the first method (glueing tesserae)?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Yes, I use regular carbon paper. It is now considered something from the dark ages but it's very handy www.amazon.co.uk/psler-Transfer-Embossing-Woodworking-Surfaces/dp/B073PP8KHD/ref=asc_df_B073PP8KHD/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=696285193871&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11922669996378458650&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9195771&hvtargid=pla-2281435179018&psc=1&mcid=6576847d36d935ce998c504330134102&hvocijid=11922669996378458650-B073PP8KHD-&hvexpln=74&gad_source=1

[@margaretadorno4856]

@@HelenMilesMosaicslove it! Thanks!

[@margaretadorno4856]

@@HelenMilesMosaicsfunnily enough, I’m in a major U.S. office supply store right now and they don’t stock it! Thanks for the link!

[@orchardann]

Full of great information. Thank you!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

You’re very welcome!

[@Almarosarivera]

This was so helpful thank you

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kelseymiddleton246]

Thank you! Can you specify which glue to use for the direct method? Very much looking forward to creating with mosaic!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I use a glue called Titebond II Premium Wood Glue which is super strong and suitable for outdoor projects as well as indoor ones. If you are not in the UK or cant get hold of it then try and find a local equivalent - something that says on the tub that it is strong and safe to use outdoors. I dont trust PVA for outdoors but it would be fine for an indoor project.

[@Doorsfan13]

Fantastic video, thank you so much!! I have a quick question I'm hoping you might be able to help me with. I'm making a birdbath for my girlfriend and I had a photo of us pixelated into a mosaic that I'd like to put in it. Is ceramic better than glass for something exposed to the elements like this? Which technique out of these 5 do you think might be best? Any tips or suggestions you may have would be greatly appreciated!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

You're very welcome. If you already have a birdbath which you can decorate straight onto then I would use the tile adhesive/thin set method. Both ceramic and glass are equally resilient outside and would work well.

[@Momcat6]

Thank you, this is very helpful! I recently found your channel and am really enjoying your videos.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I'm so glad to hear that! 😀

[@wolfgang4468]

Great overview, thank you!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Glad it was helpful! 😀

[@nekomantia]

Thank you!

[@yvonneschimmel453]

One question. Whats the difference between the mesh that is used to make hook rugs and the mesh used for mosaics?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Good question. I am not sure since I dont make hook rugs but it is a fibre glass mesh which is sold at tiling suppliers so I imagine that it does have different properties.

[@TheRodT]

Thank you and your voice is very attractive

[@tonypaul5489]

Very useful information

[@amusementparkcarnivalvarie9268]

What is the 5th method? I just see hands, can't picture what the half-way concrete would look like. BEAUTIFUL work, very inspiring!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

The 5th method is making a mosaic in reverse so it's a slab cast in concrete. I am sorry I didn't have an example to show you when I posted this.

[@wildcats.create]

very helpful! thank you!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

So glad!

[@phaedrapage4217]

I know absolutely nothing about making a mosaic but I have all kinds of marble tiles pieces. A lot of them are the result of marble cutters practicing various shapes, curls, etc. Several different types and colors but all some kind of stone, including quite a bit of lapis lazuli. So I really want to attempt my first mosaic. I'm betting with the weight of the tile pieces that I'm going to want a pretty strong adhesive.... but I'll be flying by the seat of pants on this so everyone wish my luck!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Good luck! It sounds like you have wonderful materials to work with. I would use the tile adhesive/thin set method: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sIK7Xp2dltqKeZo

[@2020Bookworm]

Where do you buy fiberglass mesh?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

From any mosaic supplier. You can also buy big rolls of it from building suppliers - I got my big roll on line but its best to buy from a mosaic supplier first so you can be sure that you are buying the right thickness and mesh size when you order a roll.

[@meg_griffin_came_out_first]

Can I do it to my bathtub it's and acrylic on tho??

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I wouldn't advise doing it on your bathtub unless you use an epoxy glue.

[@SuperMoeLarryCurly]

Nice demonstration. Where is a good place to get the mosaic tiles of different color?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

If you are in the UK, then you can get them from www.mosaicworkshop.com/ or Mosaic Heaven: www.mosaicheaven.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw8qmhBhClARIsANAtbofx1EN7-Jv-3BOpA1u7mEm-Uc918n5bD4IGQmm9Kmk8E3W2yRTqLTQaAo5SEALw_wcB. In the US, I would recommend WitsEnd: witsendmosaic.com/

[@manuelkong10]

Well done, thank you so much!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

You're very welcome Manuel! 😀

[@ludouglas1]

so if you're using the two different tiles -ceramic and glass - you'd need two different nippers?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Lots of people use the Leponitt nippers to cut ceramic but they will get blunt pretty quickly and so I save mine for glass only.

[@ludouglas1]

Thanks so much xx

[@denisesf5]

Brilliant!! Thank you!

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

You're very welcome!

[@barbrathompson9798]

Pity you didn't show a sample of each,,, fascinating thank you 🙏

[@paulinehunt4069]

Looking for pattern start. No one shows that. How to devise pattern. Start to finish.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Good idea, Pauline! Do you mean a repeat pattern or do you mean any kind of mosaic design?

[@eburalik]

@@HelenMilesMosaics Maybe, What She would like to know «how Cutting and skaping tiles»?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

@@eburalik I have already done several videos on cutting and shaping tiles so I think it is more about how to come up with ideas for designs.

[@margaretadorno4856]

I can find lots of designs I like in art books, on the web, etc but I don’t know how to transfer it to the surface I’ll be gluing onto. I’ve taken a photo to be enlarged and printed onto poster paper, but it doesn’t work well to glue directly onto the paper.

[@daverobertson6880]

@@margaretadorno4856hmmm maybe carbon co😅pay paper and transfer the image?

[@jaycee571]

Thank U Helen. Loving your videos. 🙏 If using the cast concrete method, and paperback method, would the concrete and adhesive fill the gaps or would I need to grout as well. ?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

You can't really tell under the concrete has set and you peel off the paper but usually I need to grout as well just to fill little holes.

[@jaycee571]

@@HelenMilesMosaics thanks so much for replying Helen. Greatly appreciate your help 🌼🌼🌼❤️

[@doriselijah3011]

Beautiful

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Thank you! 😊

[@IamPalakBansal]

Which glue to use for mess method?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I used Titebond II Premium Wood Glue.

[@GoodieWhiteHat]

is this a method you can use for smalti?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

The method for smalti is the tile adhesive method: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sIK7Xp2dltqKeZo. I haven't made a video yet about the method but at least here's how to make the adhesive!

[@kenzysworld2257]

What kind of paper is being used when using the dlour and water ro glue it to

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I used Kraft paper 60-80msg. You can easily find it online.

[@Ishisah]

What kind of glue do you use on the netting?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Hi Sah. I use a glue called Titebond II Premium Wood Glue. Although it's designed for wood it's perfect with mesh - extremely strong and suitable for outdoors too. Here's a link to my video about the mosaic mesh method which will explain more: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXqQenWvr9WAeqs

[@Ishisah]

@@HelenMilesMosaics: Thanks! I will definitely use this information. Merry Christ-mas from the Navajo Nation.

[@terriejohnston8801]

WHAT KIND OF GLUE WORKS BEST FOR GENERAL MOSAICS.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

It depends on where the mosaic is going to go and what materials you are using. Very broadly, use Weldbond for flat materials and tile adhesive (= thinset) for textured and mixed pieces like broken china and shells.

[@zafermassouh4916]

Hello Can i make mosaic from olive seads

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Absolutley! Just make sure that they are fully dried out first. I put organic things like seeds in the oven on a very low setting for a few hours to make sure that all the moisture has gone.

[@solb303]

where can we find that fishbone design?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

It's from an ancient design called the Unswept Floor - there's an example of it at the Vatican Museum in Rome. It's been adapted though!

[@barbrathompson9798]

Love your voice ❤

[@BlancaDeanHHIndia]

Amazing

[@ilonaritter2076]

what glue to fix on the mesh ?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I'm going to talk about that in another video! But for now its Titebond and I buy it from www.mosaicworkshop.com/shop/

[@Muzlove.]

Классно! Super.

[@rosemarymortonjack9387]

Very well explained thank you. Would it be possible to expand on your tutorial by actually demonstrating each step as you do instead of simply telling us how it will work? There’s nothing like “seeing” the method to really learn. I have always wondered incidentally, how easy (or difficult more exactly!) it is to fill little corners and odd shapes here and there within a design. Your pictures show some expertly crafted end results which encourage the amateur beyond reasonable expectation I suspect. Thanks anyway.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

That was the idea, Rosemary. However, I started making these videos during lockdown when I had time to make them and now that we're able to move around I find it really hard to find time. But I will certainly try!

[@francesdoyle9461]

What kind of tiles are you using?

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Winckelmans unglazed ceramic or vitreous glass.

[@paigeturner165]

I sent you an email and can’t wait to hear back 👍🏼

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Are you Caroline? I have sent you a reply.

[@Puneet_Vijay]

❤❤❤

[@moonshine_artsandcrafts]

What is this stuff used

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

if you let me know which stuff you are referring to, I would be happy to reply

[@MammyandKids]

👍👍

[@Lukesh30253]

Do not use that glue it’s better to put face mount tape on the front and then flip it over, prime it..and place the mesh on the back. Attach the mesh with a liquid membrane like hydroban, then not only is it more sturdy but it meets ntca ansi standards.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

The glue is designed for outdoor use and is widely used by mosaicists. I thoroughly recommend it!

[@CherylCanosa]

Would have been better to show us rather than just waving your hands over completed sections 😊

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I have made separate videos about the different methods which you are welcome to watch! 😀

[@behatkaaaa]

fallen asleep after 2 min from the way she speaks ....

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

😂

[@Remy7777-z1g]

Lost my time with this

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I hope in a good way! 😀

[@lostandfoundsheep]

So with the fiberglass mesh method, you say you install it on site.. what types of installation options are there? Can you grout? Can you lay it directly in concrete?

[@nataliefeldman3416]

I loved this video , very informative . Well presented

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

I'm glad you liked it! 😀

[@neusaniemann7462]

Love your videos! Thank you.

[@HelenMilesMosaics]

Thank YOU!