HOW TO PREPARE WOOD FOR MOSAIC | Easy Step-by-Step Process

[@roseosullivan6553]

Hi, Julie. I didn't know that about doing that to wood. Thanks. Take care.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Rose, proper prep will definitely help prolong the life of mosaics on wood substrates.

[@carmenortiz5294]

More good luck for me. After two decades of non-mosaic, I couldn't remember any thing about what am I supposed to do, ah, yes wood, to tile on. This is video two (will do the first part of tools right after this one). Glad I wake up really early. Really liked part two of tools, I couldn't remember how to use most of those tools, old age and all.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Carmen! It's great to hear you're back to mosaic!! It's like riding a bike, it'll all come back to you. Start creating (again)!😉

[@carmenortiz5294]

@@JulieWeilbacher I'm motivated, I will get $300 when I complete one. It's was training on Public Art that took 5 weeks and now I have to do it.

[@gina6518]

Carmen, you sound like me! Hope you're enjoying getting back to it 😊

[@BussyMcBusface]

We live and travel in a "skoolie" (school bus converted to an RV) and I did a tile backsplash on wood in the kitchen, plus a huge broken-dish ocean mosaic on cement board in the shower. We are bumping down the road all the time, and that shower has held up FLAWLESSLY, not a crack or crumble in the grout... but the entire kitchen backsplash on wood has completely crumbled and every tile has fallen off, because I DIDN'T KNOW I NEEDED TO SEAL THE WOOD!!! Well, at least I know what to do to fix it... THANK YOU!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Bussy McBusface! Sounds like you're living quite the exciting adventure!! I would recommend that instead of using wood in your kitchen backsplash, you use cement board (Duroroc or green board) since that area is prone to water. Use fortified thinset as your adhesive, and seal the grout as well. I never use wood as a substrate in areas that are prone to water. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🚌

[@santashahadley5916]

Thanks for the tip Julie. This helps a lot for me because coming back into this world so I am starting over.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! Awww, welcome back!🤣 I’m so glad you got value from the video. I appreciate you and I’m glad you’re here. Keep creating!🔥

[@esthermarcen7587]

very lovely explain, i am going to do a shelf using left over mosaic from my toilet renovation, i will follow this advices. subscribed, thanks from Finland

[@verabritto9759]

What a nice idea, a mosaic shelf!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Esther! Beautiful idea! Great way to use up your tile too! Thanks for subscribing and I'm glad you're here. Keep creating!

[@diannecrea7090]

I create a lot on concrete (mushrooms), cement sheet, lately lightweight substrates using polystyrene and two layers of alkaline resistant mesh and cement! 💕

[@rainhannah4208]

Just commenting to say thank you so much for your wonderfully concise, clear, and really educational videos. I'm new to mosaic, am loving this new rabbit hole I've fallen down, but don't have much $$ for the many online classes I'd like to take. Whenever I have a question, your YT is my first stop to see if you've done a video on it. Generally you have! It's appreciated!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Rain! Thanks so much for your kind words! 😊 As I say in the intro, whatever I can do to shorten your learning curve when it comes to creating mosaic art. Thanks for your support and for watching! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@marionritcey583]

HI i have used photos frames and now trying a bit of wood. thanks for the help I enjoy your vidios

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Marion! Prepping unfinished/unsealed wood is key to a long-lasting mosaic. And it doesn't take a lot of time to do. Have fun with it! So many options. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🙌

[@lindag7893]

Thank you for you show, it was ver helpful. I also like to mosaic on Glass vases.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Linda! It’s great to hear you got value from my video. Glass on glass mosaic is so much fun!! Enjoy! Keep creating and I’m thankful you’re here!🔥

[@chersauter9112]

I love how detailed your descriptions are!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! Thank you.😊 I try to shorten the learning curve however I can. Keep creating and I’m thankful you’re here.🔥

[@karen-lynpenton2427]

You got you hair cut! 😄 "Two minute Tuesdays." I like it...and your hair too.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Karen-Lyn! My hair is still long.🤣 I think that video is from 2 or 3 years ago. But thank you!😊

[@karen-lynpenton2427]

@@JulieWeilbacher it looks good long too. 😊

[@CBBC435]

I'm on this video because I want to dress up the inset panels of blah gray shaker cabinet doors. I was inspired by the intarsia panel on the spice cabinet on the Woodsmith website. They used thin cuts of baltic birch plywood cut in geometric shapes, fashionedxas a mosaic. The plywood, as most know, is the finest of cabinet grade plywoods. Anyway, I'm looking for ways to dress up blah gray shaker cabinet doors and I thought wood tile, even ready made wood tile, could give me the warmth of wood that I'm looking for.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Wow, very very cool!🔥

[@JanetWambaugh]

Can you use modge podge instead of the watered down glue?

[@LindaBrownlee-x7e]

Are these the prep instructions for bamboo?

[@JanetBraisted]

One more question! Is 1/8 inch wood backer thick enough for a ceramic tile mosaic coaster? And is balsa wood strong enough? Your link was for 1/8 inch balsa wood backing. Thanks again!

[@rosefaulk7646]

I do small picture frames. I like to hit the thrift store for them. The specific type would be the ones that have been laser words on them. Generally leaving the wood edge alone. However, I’ve been in a rut and your KZbins have given me inspiration. For some reason, I’ve been missing the whole wood sealer part. Whoopsie. Thank you!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Rose! It's great to hear you're enjoying my videos. Fantastic idea...recycling + thrill of the hunt! The picture frames you're using might be sealed already especially if they have laser words. Many of those are treated with a stain. Unfinished wood substrates however are the ones we need to prep and seal. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!

[@isabelizzy9130]

Thank you🙏🏽❤️

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Isabel! Thank you for watching. Great to hear you enjoyed it! Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!

[@salwaalhokail]

Thank you. I found the answer hear 💗

[@JulieWeilbacher]

YAY!! Fantastic!🙌

[@soussaabbes7018]

Thank you so much 👏🙏❤

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! I'm glad you got value from the video. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@ginettamarinelli479]

Thanks for video, but what do you do with an already painted wood surface?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Ginetta! Great to hear you enjoyed the video. Painted surfaces are tough. You could rough up the surface of the paint to give it a little 'tooth' before you start tiling. But you'll also need to be careful that the paint is still adhering to the substrate to begin with. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🙌

[@donnamathias5973]

ThAnkyou Julie ! You are incredibly knowledgeable about this subject! It’s really exciting to learn this😃👍🏼❤️

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Donna! Aww, thank you for your kind words.😊 It's great to hear you're enjoying my videos. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🙌

[@angelacastillo2382]

Thank you so much. I prefer wood.

[@lyssantamaria1242]

I've really been enjoying your videos! Thank you for sharing such valuable information. Since you mentioned it, do you have a video about combining paint with mosaic (grouted)? I would love to tips and tricks! Thanks again

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! Here's a link to a video I did on how to tint/color your grout and thinset: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6HCgqGGid5mlbs. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@sandrabarbera1222]

Can you make a video of maybe a simple design picture frame? Or a welcome plaque for outdoor? It could be small projects for gifts that don’t break the bank. What kind of tiles you recommended for beginners? Thank you so much for your videos.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Sandra, thanks for the project suggestions! A good beginner material would be vitreous glass tile. Check out this video which demonstrates how to cut them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aqDZaJmBhLVgrdE.

[@TahloolaDarlin]

Julie, I have a bunch of plastic plate chargers. Would that be an appropriate substrate?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! You can use plastic as long as it's hard and can't be bent. Have fun!

[@DanielaRouge]

Splendid! Just what I needed! Thank you very much!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Daniela! WOO HOO! I'm so glad to hear you got value from my video.😊 Keep creating and I'm so thankful you're here!🔥

[@MICHELLEEVANS33]

Can you use bathroom caulk instead of grout?

[@JanetBraisted]

Great video! Just wondering what type of paint you use for coasters? Would acrylic be best? Thanks!

[@emilyfarris3996]

Hi! Do I need to do this if I’m using a wooden side table that’s been painted and treated however it was by whoever made it? Or is this just for “raw” woood?

[@vickiporter315]

Thankyou. I'm a beginner, and I appreciate this info because I'm going to do some Mosaics on wood..

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Vicki! Awesome!!🔥 It’s great to hear you got value from my video. Enjoy those mosaics on wood! Keep creating and I’m thankful you’re here.✨

[@GeneenWise]

Can you tell if I can do this on a 12 foot panel of wood to make a mosaic with glass then grout it

[@WendyHannan-pt7ez]

I want to make a mosaic cross for my dear cousins grave, seeing it is in a cemetery, it will be out in all weathers. I’m worried timber will break down. Thank you ☺️

[@wendycampbell2764]

Do you need to seal AND paint? Or paint the back and sides, then seal the surface where tiles will be adhered

[@PhantomsPortal1]

Wonderful Art you create! Thank You for sharing!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thank you! Great to hear you enjoy it! Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🔥

[@klaracserny3079]

Thanks for a great video. Is this prep suitable for outdoor projects?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Klara! Great to hear you enjoyed the video. You wouldn't want to use wood outdoors. For that I would suggest a cement board such as Wedi. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@carolannedellarmo2871]

thank you so much

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Carol Anne! I’m glad you enjoyed it! Keep creating and I’m thankful you’re here.🔥

[@phyllisbarr4766]

always so helpful

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Phyllis, thanks so much! Great to hear!⭐

[@Deb1650]

Just asking to make sure I understand! After you apply the Wellbond and allow it to dry, you then paint over that? Does it matter if the paint is acrylic or oil-based? Thanks so much!

[@paulineleatherman7717]

yes, this question!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Deb! I paint over the Weldbond using acrylic paint on the back of the substrate and often on the front depending on the particular mosaic/design. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Pauline! I paint over the Weldbond using acrylic paint on the back of the substrate and often on the front depending on the particular mosaic/design. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!⚡

[@bettycramer2709]

how can one do both sides

[@shaairah]

I'm just getting started in mosaics and LOVE your videos!! Thanks so much for them. I'm really confused about this wood sealing bit though. I've watched tons of tutorials and many seem to use PVA glue but two are adamant that using PVA on wood without sealing the wood with something else is terrible and will slowly erode the wood because it's water based? But PVA is used for wood anyway isn't it? Super confused, can you help explain this to me? Also, do I seal regular wood and MDF the same way? Thanks again :)

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Shaairah! Awww, thanks so much for your kind words. Welcome to the world of mosaic and great to hear you're getting value from my videos.😊 I've been sealing wood for mosaic using a PVA glue for well over 20 years. I haven't had any problems. In a pinch, I've even used a spray polyurethane. I seal regular wood and MDF the exact same way. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here! 🙌

[@shaairah]

@@JulieWeilbacher Wonderful, thanks so much for taking the time to reply

[@lindaparker1823]

Hi Julie, I can’t find your lesson on how to seal a birdbath that I’ve mosaic to keep it safe for the birds can you please tell me what you use to seal a birdbath thank you

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Linda! Here's the video on how to seal your mosaic art: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3vUi4hrqsiAlc0. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@deeannhansen1469]

Hi Julie. Thank you for showing me this video on how to prepare a wood surface. My next question would be how to transfer the pattern to the substrate? Thanks again for your help with my learning curve.. Take care! I also live in Florida. Have you considered giving classes???

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Dee Ann! I'll be covering your question in a future video. Stay tuned! I've been teaching mosaic classes for almost 25 years. Fun stuff! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@andreafoley619]

Hi Julie! When you says do the back side, do you mean score, sand, and paint it with glue? Or just paint it with the glue?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Andrea! You only need to score the side that you'll be adhering your mosaic. I like to seal and paint both sides before I begin tiling. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🔥

[@b.bailey8244]

haha i did all my first mosaics on a bunch of wood cabinet doors that i got for free - and some pieces of raw wood that i never knew how to treat. All the art pieces i did on the raw wood fell apart; thank the Universe i did not try to sell any of them; I wanted to see if they would hold up first - nope! I sold some of the ones on cabinet doors and did what you said... waiting for those to fall apart. One that I did not sell is falling apart; the mastic failed, not the bond to the wood. I almost gave up on mosaic with all those really nice pieces of art that were engineering failures! Now I only want to work on concrete or stone - and nothing with any flex!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Oh no B. Bailey! I'm sorry to hear you've had a rough time with old wood. Concrete and stone are easy to work with using thinset-mortar. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🙌

[@paulariddle7066]

I bought a round of wood at home depot. I drew on my pattern that I plan to loosely follow. And I have already glued down some teserae. Can I still do the prep around the teserae? As well as the crosshatching?

[@kayladyer7047]

I was curious, after prepping the wood and possibly painting the sides and the back with paint, can you paint the top as well before putting on glass?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Kayla! Absolutely! Just don't make it layers and layers of paint, otherwise over time that could be an issue with tesserae popping off. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@lynnkeiter1855]

Julie do you also do full length classes online?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Lynn, I'm not currently teaching any other classes except for my KZbin lessons. I will make announcements on my social media channels when/if that changes. If there's something you'd like to see just me know. I'm working on creating videos on subjects which have been requested by subscribers, and will pepper those in on the channel. Thanks for being here and keep creating!

[@KnotiLuv3000]

Hi Julie, you’re awesome… I have a wooden table that has a finish on it. Do you recommend I sand off all of the finish?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Paige! Awww, you're too kind!😊 In short, yes, I would try to sand off the finish. But, if you can get enough of the finish off -- doesn't have to be completely -- that your adhesive can make contact with the substrate's surface then you should be ok. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@flowerbug55]

Julie if you use Apoxy Sculpt on wood, do you need to prep the wood with glue??

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Flowerbug55! Yes, you still want to prep the wood for mosaic. Prepping the wood is not only for your tesserae adhesion, but also to prevent your grout from cracking. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@lorraineallen275]

Hi! Thx for the video on sealing wood for a mosaic project. I have a project ready to go where i sealed a piece of plywood with construction adhesive on the edges then spray painted the entire board with flat white outdoor spray paint. Then glued that board inside a frame with construction adhesive & sealed all connections with the adhesive. So the Painted board surface is a bit rough from the wood texture being painted & there is an 1/8" well inside the frame so no sharp edges from my glass design will be exposed. I also wanted to place some "silver reflective tape" in areas of translucent glass in my design so it could reflect light at times. This will be hung on the wall. Do you think my method will last? I have 2 more framed pieces planned.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Lorraine! You're method sounds good for indoor mosaic art. Just remember, wood substrates for mosaic shouldn't be placed outdoors. Enjoy your projects....they sound like a lot of fun!! Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@lynnvollmar7390]

Hi Julie. I am new to mosaics. I want to do wood birdhouse for outside in mosaic. I think I need to seal the wood first. I was thinking Kilz. What would you recommend. Thank you. Ps. I love your you tubes. Lynn

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Lynn! Thank you for your kind words about my channel.😊 I'm happy to hear you're enjoying the videos. A wood birdhouse for an outdoor mosaic isn't a great idea.🙈 The wood will expand and contract with the weather.....which means your grout can crack and tesserae can pop off. A better idea would be to create a birdhouse from cement board, or cement-covered foam core. This video will introduce you to the material: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKqQhaCOYqeDqKc. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@SATX2000]

I’m going to mosaic a wood tray I purchased. It has a distressed finish I don’t like so I’m planning to sand and paint the sides that will show above the mosaic. I see in the video that I should do that first which I had planned to do. I would also like to add a clear polyurethane or other type of protectant on the paint because this is going to be used for a coffee bar. do you have any recommendations for that? Also, once the mosaic is done, and grout sealed, could the polyurethane be applied to that as well?

[@SATX2000]

I have started my project and sure wish that I could get the information I was looking for.

[@M_K_M_K_M_K]

Hi Julie! I just prepared my (quite large) piece of plywood, but I kept the glue/water mixture quite thick. Would that be a problem?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! It probably won’t be a problem. What adhesive will you be using?

[@cherilewis2702]

Can you use wood in an outdoor application?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Cheri! No, definitely not. I go into more detail on this topic in a video very soon.👀 Keep creating and I’m thankful you’re here!🔥

[@patriciakerr2486]

Does painting the wood work to prepare the wood without the glue process?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Patricia! Painting the wood is not the same as sealing the wood. Paint coats the wood and stays on top of the substrate as a layer. Sealing the wood allows the glue mixture to penetrate the wood. Over time, paint could peel away from the substrate. Hope this helps! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@pmanzano4474]

Do you ever use Mod Podge?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

I haven't used ModPodge but it would probably work the same as the Weldbond. Do a test and see.✨ Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!

[@chanimarie6753]

I'm doing thr surface of an antique oak vanity. Is PVA suitable sealant for this? I can't score the back as it's attached to the table?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Chantelle! What a fun project! Yup, PVA works. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@ronwilliams8223]

Thanks for the video! I’m building a lazy Susan with mosaic glass inset into to the oak top. Based on your video, I plan to glue stained glass pieces to a clear piece of glass the size of the inset, seal the wood and then glue the glass to the wood. Does this sound like a good idea? Seems this would help mask any wood movement relative to the stained glass pieces. Also I can put the pattern under the clear glass to aid construction. What kind of glue would you suggest for 1- glass to glass and 2- glass to wood?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Ron! Sounds like a beautiful project! I agree with the steps you mentioned. Check out this video regarding glass on glass mosaic (kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIrKhaKwjJmFmLc). Lots of GOG tips which will be helpful. Another option if you didn't want to tile on glass -- but still needed to see your pattern -- would be to tile on mesh. Check out this video for info on that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nWWQf5ugmK2spsk. For the adhesive you can use a white glue like Weldbond (which dries clear). You can use that same glue to adhere the glass to the wood. Have fun and enjoy!! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@skytheminiaussie5520]

My favorite to tile on is cement 😊 Great video, I did not know I needed to seal wood.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Sky! Tiling on cement is a great substrate. I like it too! What sort of mosaic projects do you make on cement? And now you know about wood prep in case that's an option. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here! 🙌

[@marys8884]

Hi Julie great videos. I'm new to this. Would you also seal the wood the same way if using thin set ?? ( to press mosaic pieces into )... thank you so much !!!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Mary! Welcome to the world of mosaic! Yes, you should seal the wood regardless of the adhesive you'll be using. Plus, it also helps the grout to NOT crack during the drying process. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@sandyw7004]

I want to make a mosaic clock as a Christmas gift but am having a hard time finding the substrate. I came across a cradled wood substrate which would be great as it has room to hide the clock mechanism. My concern is that the wood that I would be adhering my tesserae to is only 1/8” thick birch wood although the cradle is 7/8” MDF, which the description states prevents warping, flexing, etc. Would a substrate this thin hold up to the weight of the tesserae (glass adhered with Weldbond)? Thanks for your help and for sharing your expertise. (sorry if this is a duplicate…thought I had posted earlier but cannot find my comment).

[@sherrieller6523]

5:37 😊lll lol lololol p lol ll p 😊

[@CalorieRebel]

Could I use primer instead of diluted PVA glue to seal a wood board? It's 3/4" thick - do I need to do the back too??

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi CalorieRebel! Yes, you can use primer instead of PVA glue. I've used both options from time to time. Just make sure you paint a good coat and you're good to go! I would do the back as well if you're going to paint/finish it off. Who am I kidding.....I'd do the back no matter what. But if you won't have any mosaic work on the back and aren't going to paint it, you'll be fine not priming it. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@patriciakerr2486]

I'm confused. I have a couple signs I bought from thrift store, thinking I could mosaic them. Can I send off the picture/painting and then use?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Patricia! I'm not sure I understand your question. Can you send off the picture/painting and then use? Help!🤔

[@patriciakerr2486]

@@JulieWeilbacher oops. Meant sand, not send. These are decorative signs painted on wood that I figured I could use as substrates. I guess I can use paint remover to take off the paint from the wood and then mosaic.

[@muddove9214]

Hi Julie! I just found your channel and I love it! Im an episode 1 beginner “newbie “. Please answer a question: by sealing wood like this, will it be ok to use outside? Thinking about a medium sized table for outside in my garden to display plants Thoughts?❤

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi muddove9214! Thank you for your kind words.😊 I’m glad you’re getting value from my channel. You don’t want to use wood as a substrate for your outdoor mosaics. It expands and contracts. Instead you can use Wediboard. Here’s a video about it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKqQhaCOYqeDqKc. Keep creating and I’m thankful you’re here!🔥

[@lucymartinez991]

helpful.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Lucy! I'm glad you got value from the video. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@conniemicheli4137]

Hi Julie, Firstly LOVE YOUR WORK. love all of your videos and do enjoy the Bloopers. I have a question. now that I know how to seal my wood, a need to know how to mosaic a Cross. I have a girlfriend who collects crosses and without think I told her I would make one. She particularly loves the ones with pearls and bits of jewellery etc. My question is. Do I grout or just use glue where the pearls/jewells etc may be and grout only the part using mosaics or brioken china? (cant spell the pique etc 🙂Thank you so much.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Connie! You're such a sweet friend!💗 This video can help you out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gn2mnayreL6ZhKM. Partially grouting your mosaic is the way to go! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🙌

[@conniemicheli4137]

Thank you Julie. You’re a Gem🥰

[@kellysnider5138]

I want to do a mosaic on the side of a wood wine chiller trough - how would you recommend going about that? I’m afraid going straight on the wood will cause problems since there’s going to be ice in a metal bucket inside the trough. Thanks for any direction you can give. It will be my first project.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Kelly! Sounds like a fun project! I would attached Wedi board to the wood wine chiller and then your mosaic. You could make your mosaic on mesh which would make installation easier. Here are some videos to help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKqQhaCOYqeDqKc; kzbin.info/www/bejne/nWWQf5ugmK2spsk. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@kellysnider5138]

@@JulieWeilbacher Awesome! Thank you. Would you attach it to the trough with an adhesive or with the wedi fasteners? I’m wondering if the ice will chill the wood enough (the wood is about 1/2” thick) to cause the wedi board to move?

[@58LAF]

I am new to mosaics. Have been doing stained glass for several years. Just started glass on glass mosaics. However did a house number mosaic in an old frame several years ago. Used a plywood substrate. My stained glass instructor - who obviously didn’t know mosaics - said nothing about sealing the wood. I did seal the grout when done. It’s under an overhang attached to the house and never gets wet. It’s fine now but should I be concerned??

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Lori! In the future, make a note that you don't want to use plywood as your substrate for outdoor mosaic projects. You're much better off with a cement board like Wedi. Great to hear you sealed the grout. That will help prolong the life. Now you know! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@58LAF]

@@JulieWeilbacher Thanks very much. I used exterior plywood but will remember to use a different substrate in the future. Am learning a lot from your videos. Thanks.

[@barbarasmith9453]

I prefer hardy backer for pictures and gourds for birdhouses sealing is important I lost glass on the birdhouse since I disnt seal the gourds well enough.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Barbara! Thanks for sharing. Do you use real gourds or artificial?🤔

[@barbarasmith9453]

@@JulieWeilbacher I use real gourds

[@dreadrogue549]

Maybe you could do a video where you make a red only mosaic

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Great idea Buddy! ❤️ How about you join me on camera for that video?🤞🏻

[@dreadrogue549]

Oki

[@DenGio55]

Hi Julie, once I’m done creating a wood mosaic project do I seal it the same way I would seal a flower pot or stepping stone? I’m sure you’ve gone over this somewhere, just can’t find it. Thank you! I’m new, can you tell?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Deni! Welcome to the world of mosaic!✨ This video (kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3vUi4hrqsiAlc0) will help you decide whether your mosaic needs to be sealed or not.....and how to do it. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@DenGio55]

@@JulieWeilbacher thank you!!! I love your videos!

[@cindyokubo4494]

Do you paint BEFORE or AFTER doing the sealing?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Cindy! I paint after the sealing. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@cindyokubo4494]

@@JulieWeilbacher do you find the paint reacts to the sealant?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

@@cindyokubo4494 Hi Cindy! It's doesn't react to it at all.

[@ticatac12]

Thanks for the information! 1. Could you tell me though, would polyurethane be better in the long run to use than the watered down PVA? 2. Water or oil based polyurethane?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Amber! You can certainly use a water-based polyurethane as your sealer for a wood substrate. I've done it, and it works fine. But a watered down PVA works fine too, and is more easily available. Remember to never use a wood substrate outdoors. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@amberray1210]

@@JulieWeilbacher thanks!!

[@rachelleanonymous2740]

Hi! I have a question - why do you put glue on both sides? I'm planning on doing a mosaic on a wood serving tray (like a breakfast in bed tray)... so I'm not seeing the point of putting glue on any surface I'm not planning to tile...?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Rachelle Anonymous! I put glue on both sides because when I paint the back of the substrate, the paint won't soak in and will smooth on nicely. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here! 🔥

[@lorahish5444]

@@JulieWeilbacher ah so if one doesn't plan to paint the back that we can skip applying it to both sides. I was scratching my head on that one too. TY!

[@yerhan1572]

If its for indoors only 9mm ply and all you need to do is use a pva glue don't thin it and make sure you do the edges. I f its for exterior use i fibreglass the whole surface and use resin on the edges usually three coats. I have large boards i mosaiced outside been there a few years now no water damage . Now you can get very large ceramic tiles which i just PVA . I use a solvent glue because most of the mosaic materials i use are glass

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thanks for sharing your method! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@summerholmes4725]

Why score it only to sand it? Doesn’t the sanding sand out any scoring you did?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Summer! After you score your wood substrate you'll do a light sanding on the surface to get rid of any splintered wood on the surface. You won't sand so hard that you have a smooth surface again, there will definitely still be score lines on your substrate. Hope that helps! Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!

[@wallyzeisig]

Interesting. I have worked with wood surfaces a number to times. Without prepping with glue, I just used carpenters glue on straight wooden coffee table. I was great for a year and then it buckled. Looked like the wood dried out and caused the mosaic surface to have a slight lift. None of them broke but the uneven surface was noticeable. Next I thought perhaps I would prep the surface with paint. I did that and again 2 years later, I found that the table dried out and actually split. The coffee table feels like it has a small trough. Can't actually see it but certainly feel it. I'm really cautious now about using wood on a large scale. My smaller wooden projects, eg. jewellery boxes and coasters are not affected. For larger projects I'm going to try MDF. Hopefully that won't dry out. Does anyone have any experience you might want to share with me?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Wally! What about using a spray polyurethane to treat the wood before you start tiling? Give it a good, even coat. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@cindyfairbanks7787]

Wood expands and contacts and could be the cause of your mosaic failure. Though using wood for an indoor mosaic is typically not a issue. However, heed my advice...Wood should NEVER be used for outdoor mosaics.

[@AY-xb7fr]

This is so helpful! I have a few questions - the wood I'm going to be working on is already a little toothy, would I still need to score it before applying a sealer? Also, what kind of polyurethane would you recommend?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi AY! Thanks so much for watching! It's great to hear you enjoyed it! If your substrate is already a little toothy then you can skip the scoring step. As for a sealer -- if you'd rather use something other than what was mentioned in the video -- but would prefer polyurethane instead, opt for a water-based variety. Easy clean-up! Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!

[@vakhbod100]

Can I use dollar tree wood? very thin

[@JulieWeilbacher]

If using wood, and it's a small piece (no bigger than 2 of 3") then 1/8" will be ok. The bigger the substrate, the thicker the substrate should be.

[@artbree654]

That wood looks very thin. Is it wood? Plywood? How thin can you go? Is it thin because it's a small mosaic? If I wanted to do a big kitchen backsplash would I need thicker wood? I've been told plywood is the way to go but it's so darn heavy. Thank you

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! For a kitchen backsplash you might want to consider using mosaic mesh. This video will show you how to use it in your mosaic work: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nWWQf5ugmK2spsk. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@diannecrea7090]

I prefer cement sheet! 😁

[@elisabethgandy3528]

How to prepare a small box for mosaic

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Elisabeth! I did a video on mosaic boxes (made 3!), you can check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKTRl36DeLB7mKc. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!⚡

[@ceciliariza-watson688]

I need to mosaic a bench. 😮😅

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Yeah you do!🔥🙌😍

[@j.c.7555]

❤️🥰

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi J.C.! Great to see you enjoyed the video, thank you! Prepping wood surfaces for mosaic is so crucial. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!

[@christinekieffer7415]

I'm going to try untreated birdhouses

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Christine! Sounds fun! Just remember, wood substrates aren't good for outdoors. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@skrtskit1521]

💖🐱‍👤

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thank you for watching and being here! Keep creating!

[@dodojack1045]

Great info... But please lose the music. Irritating...!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thanks for your feedback. Glad you got some value from the video. Keep creating!

[@cindyfairbanks7787]

Emphasis should have been no matter HOW or how MUCH you seal wood, it should NEVER be used for outdoor Mosaics... NEVER. Wood expands and contracts causing grout to crack, tessera to fall off, and the mosaic to fail. You will likely hear otherwise, but they are WRONG! Heed my advice, if you want to do things correctly. ☺️