HOW TO GET STARTED IN MOSAICS | 27 Item Checklist + Advice for Saving Time and Money

[@robertafierro5592]

First you need a Plan. A good drawing, the space a couple of bucks for supplies and a Great Teacher like Ms. Wellbacher!

[@juliegilbert3307]

My first was a huge stepping stone, I took a class and was asked to bring a stepping stone. I showed up with the biggest square stepping stone compared to my classmates but I was so thrilled after completion. I took a long break from mosaic work and now I'm back in full swing! Love your videos!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Julie (great name BTW😉)! Wow, that was quite the first project! And it's great to hear you're back! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@tiaralong7484]

I like the music

[@pmanzano4474]

I came back from the Holy Land in love with mosaics! I wanted to create something for church and didn’t know where to begin. I binge watched, like you said, lived and breathed mosaics for a couple of months now. The design stage is the hardest for me. So, I bought a gecko kit to, at least feel I’ve accomplished something. I’ve done 3 little projects and haven’t done the grouting yet. 😂 I’m now working on my 4th project and still excited to be able to fulfill my goal. Thank you for all your tips and tricks! It has helped in making this hobby a reality.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi pmanzano4474! What great inspiration!!😍 When I was first starting in mosaic I doodled ALOT. I still keep a pad of paper with me most of the time. You never know when an idea/inspiration will strike! Let your imagination run wild. Then when you’re ready to tile, sketch your idea onto a substrate. Start with a basic design so you can get the hang of it. It’s more about getting comfortable with the process. Keep creating and I’m thankful you’re here.🙌

[@Trwanddon]

My first project was a trivet from a kit when I was about 9 years old. I loved it so much. It had little squares all lined up in grays with one tile in a bright red. I think it was wood, with a wooden frame. I am just getting into it again now that I'm retired and have time. Thank you for your videos! So helpful for someone starting out.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Teresa! What a sweet childhood memory regarding mosaics. I'm so happy to hear you're getting back into it. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@cosquellemind]

My first mosaic pieces were 4 inch terracotta pots and yes it can become overwhelming thinking about all the creative possibilities. My eyes now light up every time I see tiles. (: still learning, still trying but having fun... most of the time.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Danielle, I know exactly what you mean. Overwhelm is real....there are so many possibilities in mosaics. Write it down, keep a list, and pace yourself. When I was just starting in mosaics, I looked at plates, bowls, and mugs as mosaic materials, and not for their utilitarian purpose. *slightly obsessed*. But I think that also makes you more open-minded to creativity.....and if a plate happens to break, oh darn! Keep creating and glad you're here!

[@robertafierro5592]

Jill got me going and now i want to buy a little starter kit. I would like to make a simole Black and Tan tiled suare 6x6 of a Black Cat from perhaps Pompeii or rhe early Roman Mosaic styled decorations for fountains and walkways...i even thought if making one. Simple Koi fish...those expert artists and craftspeople make this art form look easy, but like stained glass, what a Joy itbmust be to be able to put all the drama of life aside and just DO something like this all.weekend..

[@tonyaregan6473]

My first mosaic piece was a gazing ball, made with a bowling ball and mirror pieces, and a few baubles. I had 2 going at the same time. Made a load of mistakes on the 1st one. Improved on the 2nd one. This 3rd one ought to be showroom quality! Thank you for being on KZbin. You are a detail oriented teacher and I am learning a lot!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Tonya! I'm so glad you found me! Thank you for the kind words....I'm trying to share all the information I wished I'd known when I was first starting in mosaic. You're making GREAT progress with your mosaics! And you're learning along the way and improving your skillset with every piece. 'Atta girl! Keep going, learning, doing, and don't give up.....dig those heels in! I think being challenged by a project just makes for a better, more knowledgeable mosaic artist. Glad you're here!

[@roseosullivan6553]

Hi, Julie. Thanks for all those questions. Good idea. I love the way you have your stuff is stored, very tidy. You are funny, it's like a hair colour. Lists are good. Take care

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Rose! I'm so glad you enjoyed this video. Over time those questions will just naturally come to mind before starting a new piece. Thanks for watching!

[@Esmie6]

So glad I ran into your channel. Your content and knowledgeable information is invaluable. Just starting to explore this medium. I haven’t even started my first piece. This has been so helpful.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Esmie! Awww, that's great to hear! I'm so glad you found my channel too!😊 Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@EricaGamet]

Thank you for your videos! I just became interested (okay, obsessed) with the idea of making mosaics about two weeks ago! I've watched several videos and am learning the tools, terminology, etc. I just ordered a kit to make my first one... it includes everything I need for that piece so I don't get overwhelmed by things such as the right grout or adhesive. Also, I don't know if I actually will like the process, so this is an easy way to try it on! I live in a small 1BR in the city, so I will probably have to work project-to-project... and also am considering become a member of a local mosaic arts studio so I can just use (and make a mess of) their space. I'm sooooo ready to get started!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Erica! I like how you're thinking and going about starting your mosaic journey. I agree 100%. I too started my mosaic journey at a pottery studio, and then progressed to having my own studio. Start small and soak up all the information you can. Learning the rules and then experimenting on your own will make you an even better mosaicist. I'm excited for you and hope you absolutely love the process. Let me know how it's going! Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🔥

[@francesbrown5061]

Thanks for your videos Julie. I'm a long time mosaicer love the China and glass. And you have given me some really great ideas. Thanks! Keep the videos coming :)

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Frances! YAY! I'm glad you enjoyed the video.😊 Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@amandasymon4363]

Great advice - My head has been spinning with a hundred idea - Master the basics is good advice that I needed to hear 👊

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Amanda! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video. Yes, get the basics down and then pace yourself. We're a 'no overwhelm zone' here. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@june1720]

Thank you Julie. May I ask you what sealer, adhesive, and grout would you use if you were making a bird bath? Love your videos, by the way. 😊

[@maryweston4877]

I do appreciate this list wish I had found you before I started

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thank you Mary! I'm so glad you found it helpful. Now you have a list to keep in mind for future mosaic projects. Keep making mosaic!

[@tinamaass391]

Thanks for this! I have done many different crafts but I am brand new to mosaic. I'm like you and have tons of ideas! I needed the "slow down, one at a time" lecture. I'm currently gathering materials for 1 project.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Tina! Welcome to the world of mosaic! Nice to meet you. Great to hear you enjoyed the video. Slow and steady, especially when just starting out in mosaic, is the way to go. You don't want to be overwhelmed before you even begin. Take notes, maybe even start a Pinterest board for future projects you'd like to do. You'll get there, just give yourself time and ENJOY the process!🔥 Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!

[@erica01161978]

THAAAAANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS VIDEO! ive never made a mosaic and i would like to and this helped me so much on getting started. I thought i had to start of big and buy all this stuff. Im so glad i found your page and i will be doing a deep dive on your videos and new subbie. thank you again.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Erica! YAY!!! Great to hear this helped you get started. And like I said in the video, start small and don't overwhelm yourself. Any ideas for your first project? Keep creating and I'm glad you're here! 🙌

[@erica01161978]

@@JulieWeilbacher thank you for responding i would like to make a frame for a mirror but i do not know the best material (substrate?) to back the mirror and mosaic pieces on. on any suggestions ?

[@honeymitchells3037]

You Are so lovely! This video was made fun and very educational. I’m just gathering information on this art form, but it’s always called me so to speak! I really appreciate your videos! Thank you

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Honey Mitchell's! Thank you for your kind words!😊 It's great to hear you enjoyed it. As I say in all of my videos, my goal is to shorten your learning curve. Keep creating (or gathering your info!) and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@michellemeyer1811]

My first project (and only project so far) started with a ceramic tile that i bought in Israel, i made it the center of the project. Then i bought the glass colored tiles that they sell at Hobby Lobby. I really loved doing the project but i wasn't in love with the tiles because i couldn't control the size but it did turn out really good for a first project. Thanks for your videos, I'm so inspired to do more! Next project... Flower pot!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Michelle! CONGRATS on your first project!🎉 You can break the glass tiles down next time....check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aqDZaJmBhLVgrdE. For your flower pot I've got some videos to help: (part 1 - tiling) kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWOVhaeumclrg6s; (part 2 - grouting) kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqPahpeJbLSCmsk; and (part 3 - sealing) kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3vUi4hrqsiAlc0. 🙌 Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!

[@carmenortiz5294]

My first one? Ready for it? A tiffany lamp shade, in a class, not exactly a great choice for a beginner but the person having the classes wanted to make a lot of money, since he sold the supplies. I have two in my bed room. Then I got a offer I could NOT refuse for my house and ended up moving with thousands of extra pounds of supplies, to my sight unseen current property, which lucky for me had a former houseless carriage garage, as in a second building, where they waited for a long time.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Oh wow Carmen!!! That's quite a first project. A carriage garage sounds like a perfect mosaic she-shed. Enjoy! I'm glad you're here. Keep creating with those glass supplies!

[@carmenortiz5294]

@@JulieWeilbacher I actually found something I didn't know I needed, the little tools to use between the tiles. It is actually quite big for a shed. Old timers did things to impressed the neigbors. Which is good since I do have a lot of art supplies.

[@hfrt29]

Thank u.u are thorough and informative.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thanks Helen! Great to hear you got value from the video. Keep creating and glad you're here!

[@toniw6035]

A neighbor has given me a 7'X 3 1/2' Aluminum outdoor patio table top. The table top has a design cut in it that looks like a Mosaic tile design. Including spaces for grout. I've only made Mosaic garden stepping stones. So this is a huge project for a newbie. I will be cutting glass and ceramic to fit onto the current design in the table. Thats plan A though. I may cover it all and freestyle. Can fortified thin set be used on a metal substrate? I'm a tool junkie. I have all kinds of glass cutters, tools, goggles, gloves, mesh, brushes spreaders, etc. Sorry! I bought 1st and am praying that I won't hate later. I just starting watching your videos and haven't found one that uses metal as the substrate.

[@melissacolon2350]

So happy I found this Channel ❤️

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Melissa! We’ve been waiting for you!🤣 Keep creating and I’m so glad you’re here!🔥

[@helenkraus3177]

I'd like to make my first mosiac a bird house which I bought a wooden one that can be nailed to a fence....its raw wood so for it to be safe to hang outside, what do I need to do to the wood to prep it? I will need the proper glue to use also and may use the bucket of china I have broken over 45 years of marriage to glue on it....I may just mosiac the "roof" of it and paint the rest....Please give me your suggestions....I love your page and am now following you as I've gotten interested in mosiac making and want to start small as you suggest! TIA

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Helen! Thank you for your kind words.😊 It's great to hear you're enjoying my channel....and welcome to the world of mosaic! I'm sorry to say, that wood isn't an acceptable substrate for outdoor mosaics.🙈 You want to use something like glass, metal, stone, or cement. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@sweetswirl4962]

I'm going to watch all your videos! I started by doing a kit. That is all I've done but I've got the bug. I am still starting very slowly as I know I'm not very artistic. This is just for myself and for fun. 😊

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Sweetswirl! It's great to hear you enjoyed the video and are getting value from it. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@j.c.7555]

Excellent advise! Like you years ago is me now! ! I’m trying to take a step back. I need to master some things before overwhelming myself. Your video got me in check so thank you.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi JC! That's great to hear! I think taking a step back and learning new things is how we appreciate what we do more, but also, it can get us out of a funk or help us figure out how to do things even better. And yes, try to avoid overwhelm whenever possible. Keep creating (and learning!) and I'm glad you're here!🙌

[@diannecrea7090]

I always suggest if they get join a class close to home! However, there are so many You Tube Tutorials, like yours. They were not around when I started. No Facebook! We had Flickr! Lol

[@robertsonfamily8830]

Thank you for your videos, they are practical and informative. I have not mosaiced yet but am interested in pebble/natural stone ( and maybe mixed media) mosaics for outdoors and vertical application on top of cement block. I don't see anything about stone mosaics on your channel. I'd love to see something or lots of somethings from you on that tesora (ha, new word for me.) Thanks.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thank you for your kind words.😊 I'm glad you're enjoying my videos. I have a number of videos here on my channel regarding mixed media mosaic. I'll put your request for pebble/natural stone mosaic on my list. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!

[@kathyestem6334]

Could you possibly add some links to the grout and adhesives that you use? I am not having much luck "searching" for them.. Thanks

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Kathye! Check out this playlist which includes videos all about mosaic adhesives and grout: kzbin.info/aero/PLDyDBysO6HCaYLv0g3lqmCVlA_GqFQZFd. I think you'll find it helpful, and there are links provided in the description below each video. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@tom-uk1217]

Hello Julie I'm tom here in the uk I'm just getting started and your advice about buying small is exactly what I wanted to hear. I just bought the basics to make a small square but I love cats so want to make a larger mosaic ginger mog. Perhaps you'd like to see how I get on with the 2 pieces

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Tom from the UK! Great to hear you're jumping in and getting started with mosaics. Yes please, definitely tag me on Instagram (@julieweilbacher) so I can follow your progress. Glad you're here and keep creating!

[@autumnsky8647]

Thank you so much for your helpful video!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Autumn Sky! Awww, it's great to hear you enjoyed my video!😊 Yay! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@donnasmith7176]

Great info! Thanks!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

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

[@cindyokubo4494]

My first mosaic was a trivet in VBS as a child. But my first REAL mosaic was a sign with our house number featuring a cardinal on a branch.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Cindy! What a sweet memory from VBS! Mosaic house numbers (& signs) are so much fun!! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here! 🔥

[@kathleenrae7541]

Julie, can you mosaic over a glazed flower pot. Is there an adhesive that will work? I find concrete pots are expensive and hard to find. thanks, Kathy Rae

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Kathleen Rae! Yes, you can mosaic over glazed flower pots. You can also mosaic over terra cotta pots. Here are a few videos that will help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWOVhaeumclrg6s (part 1) and kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqPahpeJbLSCmsk (part 2). As for your adhesive, my first pick would be fortified thinset. This video demonstrates how to mix up grout & thinset: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i4aTlKdpZ6iIo6M. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here! 🔥

[@joefish1498]

Im trying to replicate a design I found online that uses glass pieces and zero grout lines on fiberglass mesh backing. It ultimatly will be part of a kitchen back splash. I understand that one of the functions of grout is to lock tiles together. Because I will not use grout Im concerned. Do you have a tutorial on the subject?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Joe Fish! I think this video will help you out, it involves tilng on mesh: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rISqp2WErrSVm9E. Do all of the steps except for the grouting. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🔥

[@dreadrogue549]

So cool!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thanks so much bud! We need to have you on a video again!

[@rupashukla5916]

A very helpful video esp for a novice like me.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thank you Rupa! I'm so glad it was helpful to you. Keep going with your mosaic work!!

[@Mindywright27]

Thank you so much for sharing your invaluable knowledge! I’d love to know where best to buy mosaic products and what are your favorite brands? I’m just getting started and appreciate you telling us not to buy, buy, buy at first, cause that’s totally what I would’ve done! Ha! Shopping in the USA or online for me! Thanks! Btw, love the bloopers! 😆

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Mindy, thank you so much for the kind words! I'm glad to hear you're enjoying my videos and getting some information that you can use and take action on. And thanks for your suggestion on a future video topic.....you'll be happy to hear it's already in the works! Stay tuned! Glad you like the bloopers.....I don't take myself too seriously! LOL! Glad you're here!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Mindy! I just posted a video on where to find mosaic materials. You can check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q2W4domooa-reaM. Keep creating!

[@b.bailey8244]

the best advice you gave is, 'don't buy all the things' until you see if you like mosaicking!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi B. Bailey! Sooooo true! We get caught up in all the shiny things and end up buying before we truly learn, decide, and then dive in head first! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@gina6518]

Happy to have found you. My first project was about 25 years ago, it was a butterfly. Then I made a fairy for my mom who at the time was diagnosed with breast cancer at 72. We took a night class ( with mom and sister) at a local high school and we fell in love but all our pieces from back then are quite heavy. I did order lots of glass tessera through ebay and after a year we all left it. Recently I found all my materials and would like to start/learn again. I don't really remember much and I think supplies and methods have probably improved.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Gina! Thank goodness you kept all of your materials. What project would you like to make first? I've got lots of tutorials and projects on this channel, but if there's something in particular that you'd like to do but not sure how to start, and you don't see it here on my channel, then just let me know. I'm always taking suggestions! Keep creating and I'm glad you're here! 🌟

[@denisegeorge573]

How do you create the design

[@roseannhaley1796]

An Eagle on a outdoor metal table. Which fell apart with the weather

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Roseann! Sounds like a fun project! Keep creating and I’m so glad you’re here.🔥

[@debbieolin8153]

I did a tabletop with broken Talavera tiles for my patio. Neighbor was getting rid of bistro table and I gladly took it!

[@nancyalvarez1866]

que buenos consejos!!!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thank you Nancy! I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@brookhuckabee2607]

Who are the vendors you use

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Brook, I don't have a set vendor list for materials. I'm always ordering from new vendors, especially small businesses. I find them by googling what I'm looking for, read customer reviews, etc. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🙌

[@brookhuckabee2607]

@@JulieWeilbacher I thought I saw on one of your great posts, a list of vendors you use, but I lost it before I could read it.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

@@brookhuckabee2607 Oh yes I think I know what you're referencing. Take a look at this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q2W4domooa-reaM. Enjoy!

[@DinksDinersArtbox]

Are there tell tale signs that mosaic is a process you might not like?

[@hfrt29]

Ur like my clone!holy moly! Lol

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Oh yeah?