SANDED v. UNSANDED GROUT; TILING ON A PAINTED SURFACE; GROUT SEALER | Mosaic Q&A, No. 3

In today’s Q&A video I’m answering viewers’ questions regarding grout, grout sealer, and mosaic substrates. And with Spring + Summer right around the corner, it’s time to start planning and working on your outdoor mosaic projects. So we'll also talk a little about what you can do to extend the life of your mosaics that will be displayed out in the elements. As always, LOTS of tips and tricks throughout.
// ITEMS DISCUSSED IN TODAY’S VIDEO:
○ Grout Glitter-amzn.to/40jAicz
○ Grout Oxide-amzn.to/3l8Ynni
○ Latex Additive-amzn.to/3yv0SU7
○ Sanded Grout-amzn.to/3NPrplZ
○ Unsanded Grout-grout-amzn.to/3TlSrCt
○ Powder Thinset-Mortar (gray)-amzn.to/37XMoCj
○ Powder Thinset-Mortar (white)-amzn.to/3CuYdwC
○ Pre-mixed Thinset-Mortar (gray)-amzn.to/3wFCE98
○ Silicone Molds for Grout/Thinset-www.shopltk.com/explore/Julie...
○ Grout Sealer-amzn.to/425XSek
○ Apoxie Sculpt-amzn.to/3Sz2fIS
○ Lexel Silicone-amzn.to/3eqXylW
○ Vase Used for Memory Vessel-rstyle.me/+1P2Lxjzww13CX3OVhR...
// JULIE’S FAVORITE MOSAIC TOOLS
○ Glass Cutters*
Custom Grip-amzn.to/3XwXT8l
Pencil Grip-amzn.to/3r65I7b
Pistol Grip-amzn.to/3u6oAFk
Thomas Grip-amzn.to/3rZ4Ss3
○ *Glass Cutter Oil (you need this for any of the above-mentioned glass cutters) - amzn.to/3KSOsdt
○ Running Pliers-amzn.to/3rZ07yK
○ Non-skid Ruler-amzn.to/3R79acJ
○ Waffle Grid Glass Cutting Board-amzn.to/3LGWSnJ
○ Wheeled Glass Nippers-amzn.to/3EFWQdT
○ Tile Nippers-amzn.to/3GSfgZZ
○ Tile Scorer-amzn.to/3P01dnU
○ Electric Glass Grinder-amzn.to/3NorQCq
○ Sanding/Grinding Stone-amzn.to/3NoF9Db
○ Safety Glasses-amzn.to/3N4CtK0
○ Safety Glasses with Readers-amzn.to/3xwDowT
○ Metal Picks-amzn.to/3Lgp9Ce
○ Mini Files (diamond)-amzn.to/3xUbKdO
○ Metal Files (alloy)-amzn.to/3Y44K8H
○ Palette Knife Set-amzn.to/3lBJs1z
○ Bench Brush-amzn.to/3Ggg5LU
○ White Project Trays-amzn.to/3xTjbmq
○ Powder Thinset-Mortar (gray)-amzn.to/37XMoCj
○ Powder Thinset-Mortar (white)-amzn.to/3CuYdwC
○ Pre-mixed Thinset-Mortar (gray)-amzn.to/3wFCE98
○ Sanded Grout-amzn.to/3NPrplZ
○ Unsanded Grout-grout-amzn.to/3TlSrCt
○ Weldbond-amzn.to/3UGOLfQ
○ Lexel-amzn.to/3eqXylW
○ Apoxie Sculpt-amzn.to/3Sz2fIS
// CAMERA GEAR I USE
○ My camera-amzn.to/3KTkC9l
○ Microphone-amzn.to/3ql7hNn
○ SD Card-amzn.to/3cT5qfU
○ Tripod-amzn.to/3D718Mk
○ Standing Ring Light-amzn.to/3U3PTL1
○ Tabletop Small Ring Light-amzn.to/3D1kId4
○ Main Studio Lights-amzn.to/3KUf9yS
○ External Hard Drive-amzn.to/3qFDaR2
// SERVICES I USE
○ Where I find my design ideas-www.dpbolvw.net/click-1003011...
○ Where I design my mosaics-partner.canva.com/c/3650370/6...
// JULIE’S STUDIO BACKGROUND - MATERIALS ORGANIZATION:
○ Plastic Bins (small)-amzn.to/3DhY3Hh
○ Plastic Bins (large)-amzn.to/3mp0yBA
○ Heavy Duty Plastic Bins-amzn.to/3gqhrIe
○ Label Maker-amzn.to/3D7Gfyj
○ Zipper ‘Freezer’ Bags-amzn.to/2XEheKK
○ Interlocking Containers (SMALL)-amzn.to/30TcL90
○ Interlocking Containers (LARGE)-amzn.to/32z4303
…
// My shop: etsy.me/364yNoV​
// GET MORE CONTENT:
○ Instagram: bit.ly/2Y8l23O​
○ Facebook: bit.ly/2KKpe76​
○ Pinterest: bit.ly/2Mddr1x​
○ Twitter: bit.ly/39ZmiMa​
// CONTACT
○ Mosaic Art Consulting-bit.ly/3qQcuNI
○ Subscribe for events, new collections, & shop sales-bit.ly/3qbeLAA
○ For business inquires + collabs ONLY, please use this [e-mail]
// VIDEOS TO WATCH NEXT:
○ Playlist for Adhesives- • Mosaic Adhesives + Grout
○ Craft Glitter v. Glitter Grout- • HOW TO MAKE GLITTER GR...
○ Color/Tint Grout- • HOW TO TINT GROUT + TH...
○ Grout Sealer- • HOW TO SEAL MOSAIC GRO...
○ How to Prep Wood- • HOW TO PREPARE WOOD FO...
DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting my channel so I can continue to provide you with free content each week.
Leave a comment if you'd like me to talk about a specific mosaic topic in a future video.
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[@slickbit13]

Love your videos! Have all my students watching your videos and they love you, too! Keep up your good work!

[@donnajosephsonblatz5058]

Always love the Q&A. Thanks Julie.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Donna! That's great to hear! I enjoy doing them too. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!✨

[@alicecowan3499]

Loved this Q & A Julie. Very informative ❤❤

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Alice! I'm so glad you enjoyed it and found value in the info. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@donnaveal6630]

Love these q and a videos!! Thank you!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Donna! You and me both!😂 I had so much fun with this one. Viewer questions are the best. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!✨

[@j.c.7555]

I loved this questions and answer video! So helpful and helps remembering…thank you Julie.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi J.C.! Awww, great to hear you enjoyed it!😊 I love the questions that pop up. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🌟

[@izabelaamuzescu9705]

Hi Julie, You were a great help when I started looking for information on how to make the mosaic, your explanations are very clear, the videos are of high quality! I thank you for the way you showed me! Please continue!

[@pmanzano4474]

I’m glad you do a Q&A since I pick up tips from it.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi pmanzano4474! Oh good!! That’s great to hear! Whatever I can do to shorten your learning curve. Keep creating and I’m so glad you’re here!🔥

[@poonamkatare4040]

I love this video, has helped me so so much ❤

[@JulieWeilbacher]

YAY Poonam! I'm so glad to hear that!!🙌

[@58LAF]

Love the Q&A videos. Thanks

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Lori! YAY! I'm so glad to hear that! I enjoy answering viewers' questions. Good fun! Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@realtorcr]

wow... thank you for sharing SO MUCH information!!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

You’re so welcome! I’m glad you got value from it. Keep creating and I’m so glad you’re here.🔥

[@almaarizpe3834]

Very good information and easy to digest. I have to do the sealer video now..

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Alma! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and got some value.😊 I enjoy answering viewers' questions. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🙌

[@cindypage8673]

Great info, thanks Julie xxx

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Cindy! I'm glad you enjoyed it and got some value. Keep creating and I'm so thankful you're here!🙌

[@pmarlowe1638]

Such great info! Thank you!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi P Marlowe! I'm glad you got value from it. You guys ask THE BEST questions! We're all learning. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🔥

[@dinabutler5797]

I appreciate the Q&A along with the links.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Dina! It's great to hear you enjoyed the video.😊 And yes, I try to include links for videos whenever possible. I always appreciate it when watching other people's videos too. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!✨

[@everyoneisoffthehook]

These are great

[@JulieWeilbacher]

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

[@yvonne-silverfox7312]

I have learned alot from ur videos thank u

[@jodycolling299]

Hey Julie..just want to compliment you on your vids..U are inspiring me and as a total beginner teaching me so much so thankyou thankyou 💖 for Perth Australia 🎉😊

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Jody! Yay!!! Thank you for your kind words.😊 It’s great to hear you’re getting value from my videos. Keep creating and I’m thankful you’re here.🔥

[@cathymartin6085]

Ty for this video, I was going to ask you a question about grout and then I remembered this video :)

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Cathy! Well YAY! I'm glad I could help.😂 Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@EvgeniaKotsiubinski]

Thank you for sharing those useful tips, Julie!❤️ I understand that you have been making mosaic for quite a while. What do you do with all the mosaic works that are not commissions and presents? I'm asking as a recently full-time working mosaic artist. My works are starting to pile up. My output exceeds the demand and my sales. How do you manage your art on this subject?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Evgenia! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Regarding your stock of mosaic work....you could sell it online, at art shows and farmers' markets, collaborate with another artist and do a pop-up or trunk show. There are lots of options to get the word out about your art! Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🙌

[@francescacuda8855]

Thanks for all your wonderful instructions, can you demonstrate more on cutting/breaking porcelain plates/bowls please. Thanks

[@kindnessmatters8155]

You are hilarious. 🙌

[@JulieWeilbacher]

LOL! I don't take myself too seriously. We all need to laugh more.😂

[@davehowell6057]

Hi Julie, thanks for all the great info! Do you first seal the clay pot before cementing & then grouting? XXj

[@robertsonfamily8830]

I would love to see information on making outdoor mosaics with natural stone/pebbles/rubble. Thanks!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thanks for your request!🔥

[@lorimckenzie4227]

Really appreciate your Q&A videos. Question: I have covered an antique metal cream can with VERY small semi-translucent stained glass pieces as my tess. I used Weldbond as my adhesive and try to be very careful to cover each piece completely. I still feel I should do a Weldbond wash, but my pieces are so tight I fear that the wash will fill the spaces and not allow room for the grout to fill in. I'd appreciate your input.

[@montanaweaverkim]

This was great Julie! Thank you! To add to the sealing question, do you apply a sealer on a yearly basis? Or is once enough for an outside garden piece?

[@thornhedge9639]

Julie; any advice on grout used near stoves. Specifically the splattered grease which gets on the tile and grout. I had thought of using silicone color matched to the grout I used everywhere else in the kitchen. (You can get color matched silicone for most grouts from the tile folks here in Germany). Sealers help, but really; grease is just too much on sanded grout. Any thoughts would be appreciated. :) I love that you include the outtakes, brilliantly funny!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Thorn! I'm so glad you enjoy my bloopers. I don't take myself too seriously.😂 Color-matched silicone is a great thought. What about unsanded grout? You can wipe it clean the same way you would silicone. And you can tint/color it. What part of Germany? Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@ashleydoss1427]

What’s the best adhesive to use on a surfboard? I’m getting ready to start a mosaic surfboard, using mirror and stained glass. Thank you!

[@stephaniepotterart]

I like your Q&A videos. I’m curious about, for lack of a better term, “Chunky Mosaics.” Ones where the adhesive and grout are one in the same and you squish tesserae into it submerging half and the other half remains visible. So basically the grout is part of the very 3D mosaic. Which product would you use for the grout/adhesive? Thanks 😃

[@angelacastillo2382]

What about putting Epoxy ( resin ) on top of your mosaic work?

[@patriciakerr2486]

I went several months where I just lost my desire to mosaic. Sadly. Anyway, now I have thinset and grout that may be getting old. What do I do with it? Can I mold it in resin molds? BTW, love the Q&A.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Patricia! First off, we all go through seasons where we lose our interest in doing things -- mosaic included. Totally normal. I'm just glad to see you're still here watching and interested in doing some little something to keep your toes dipped in! We'll be here when you're ready to start making again!😊 In the meantime, here's something really fun you can do with your thinset and grout: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipi4mJanlMt9hs0.✨

[@barbarabrummer-dq6ez]

Love the Q&A videos! Beginner question that I am still confused on - I am doing an indoor mosaic on GoBoard, first time using it, with unglazed porcelain tile and I would prefer to use titebond glue. I would like to tile the edges as I am not framing it. Question is - What is the best way to tile the edge? If I put on the mesh around the edges can I than just glue my tile onto the mesh or do I need to also do the thinset over the mesh? If I need to do the thinset and than glue my tile onto it how do I ensure the front of my substrate is flat and smooth? Or can I put on the mesh and than just use thinset as my adhesive on the edge but can still use titebond for the top of the mosaic? Thank you for all your great videos!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Barbara! It's great to hear you enjoyed the video. I had a lot of fun answering questions!😊 I think this video will help you regarding tiling the edge of your mosaic while also working with mesh: kzbin.info/www/bejne/imfPaZenfcx4Z6s. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🔥

[@barbarabrummer-dq6ez]

@@JulieWeilbacher I have watched the garden stake video a couple times but since it is an outside project I wasn't sure if all the same prep was needed for an inside piece. So I have to always prep with the mesh on the the edges and fully cover the sides top and bottom with thinset before I can apply my tile?

[@laurawalker546]

Another question I have is can you change the grout color after the project is finished? For example, I've changed my mind and want to change the color from white to black or beige, after it has all been done and you've lived with it for a while... maybe even sealed it?

[@susanlarmour]

Julie, I am putting mirror tile on a bowling ball to make a gazing ball for the garden I sanded the bowling ball and I am using my strip cutter to cut three-quarter inch squares out of mirror from old dressers and bathroom mirrors, Etc. It is rather thick I am using E6000 to glue the squares to the ball. Should I be leaving a space (actually that's what I've been doing) or put them really close together and should I use thinset or regular grout or what? How should I finish it off?

[@realtorcr]

not answering your question, but I started with E6000 on my bowling ball project and ended up using GE Silicone glue, dried more quickly to hold the pieces in place

[@susanlarmour]

@@realtorcr yeah I continued to use the E6000 just cuz I wanted to finish up the two but I won't use it anymore. I did sections taping each piece of glass or flat-backed marble. I did not enjoy that

[@amybakunas7758]

I have an out door metal and mosaic chair that’s seat needs to be replaced. The original was wood and rotted. Can you do a video on how to do this? Do you thing Wedi board would be better than wood? Thanks!

[@mjrdedhed]

Hi Julie; I'm just getting started & I'm learning so much from you! I was wondering about making tesserae from air dry clay, painted and sealed. Do you have any experience with it? Can they be grouted? If so, what type? What substrate would be best?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! I've used Sculpey to create small tesserae but not air dry clay. Hmmm, this might be a great video idea.🤔 If you grout, I'd go with an unsanded grout just to avoid the abrasion of your sealer/paint. Here's a video where I incorporated some tesserae I made from Sculpey: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4baZaZjf66irZo. You'll be able to see how I handled the grouting (and yes I used sanded grout😮). Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!⚡

[@mjrdedhed]

@@JulieWeilbacher Thank you for your help!

[@user-ql5ej3qu3k]

What tip do I need to know when color grouting around sea shell?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

You might want to cover or tape off shells with difficult to clean out areas. Keep creating and I’m glad you’re here.🔥

[@libwade5350]

Hi Julie my challenge is grouting uneven tiled surfaces, where you have different heights etc. I seem to spend more time scraping back thick grout to expose the whole tile rather than just rubbing it back. So what am I doing wrong and can you help me? Libby Australia

[@susanwheeler1573]

QUESTION what can you add to grout to turn it into a thinset??

[@dinabutler5797]

I'm definitely a beginner and have tried a couple of mosaics on the back side of glazed ceramic tiles using thinset. I like the idea of creating outdoor mosaics but I am having problems with keeping the edges uniform and neat - like your square greens mosaic. Also any tips on keeping the thinset smooth. It seems to make bubbles after applied to the tile substrate. Just looks messy!😢

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Dina! Check out this video (kzbin.info/www/bejne/api6lKeIfauYo8k) where I created mosaic coasters on the backs of ceramic tile. I think it'll help you out! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@ginabellesmith332]

I’m doing a piece on mesh it will have to be grouted before applying it to a wall. It’s A combination of abalone shapes, shells and sea glass. What is your recommendations for finishing the edges? Thanks!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Gina! If you aren't going to mosaic it, you could add a frame or just paint it. Sounds like a fun project! Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@yvonne-silverfox7312]

I do alot of mirror diy mosaics should I use unsanded grout am I right thanks for ur answer

[@strega_babeharestreets2339]

Hey how do you keep the background of a mosaic glass cup to look like glass white or clear glue on wooden surface? Tjanks

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! You have a couple options. If you want the glass to look white then you could paint the back of the tessera with white glass paint (like this: amzn.to/42iuPEj). If you want the tessera to look clear then use an adhesive that will dry clear like a PVA glue or clear silicone. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@cindycoleman5196]

Enjoy the Q & A. What do you advise if your workroom has carpet in it?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Cindy! Carpet?🙈 Vacuum often! Actually, my current studio is the first time I've had a non-carpeted floor. I used a Shop Vac on my carpeted floors daily. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!⭐

[@suegaffyne534]

Do you have any videos on transferring images to a substrate ….. I am trying freehand, having failed in size and detail with carbon paper, to transfer a dog photo but just can’t get a halfway decent image to indicate shading areas. It doesn’t help that it’s a white westie dog so it’s all shades of white and pale grey. Any advice gratefully received.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Sue! Carbon paper is my go-to for a project like that. A projector is another option although not sure what substrate is. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🔥

[@poonamkatare4040]

I mainly use unsanded grout, but I have noticed tiny cracks that appear immediately after it dries up and they get deeper and wider with time. The gaps do get wider to the extent of 1 to 5 mm

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Poonam! Remember when using unsanded grout to keep your groutline to a minimum...1/16"-1/8". And seal your substrate if necessary before you start tiling. You can go back over your mosaic with a fresh batch of grout which might take care of the hairline cracks. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@poonamkatare4040]

@@JulieWeilbacher I'm going to make a note of this..again very helpful 👍👍

[@amibeachbum2467]

As well as dampening the grout lines for a few days

[@janicecooper9174]

Hi. I am mosaicing my aluminum/ metal post box. What is the best adhesive to use. I bought gorilla glue but I find the tiles slips off before it sticks. Thanks

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Janice! You need an adhesive that works out in the elements. I would use Apoxie Sculpt or fortified thinset. If you aren't sure where to find them I have an 'adhesives' section in my Amazon Storefront >> www.amazon.com/shop/julieweilbacher. Paid links. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@shawntelfitzgerald4848]

What is best adhesive to use for picassiette mosaics?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Shawntel! It depends.🤔 I've used a variety of adhesives in my pique assiette mosaic projects (cement-based, mastic, PVA). Here's a playlist to help you decide: kzbin.info/aero/PLDyDBysO6HCZ4p7Y8BvriDiN6KHUAMmZ2. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@shawntelfitzgerald4848]

@@JulieWeilbacher thanks!!!

[@isyaya78]

Hi Julie, How can you remove an already glued (for a couple of days) mosaic piece that you want to change for another one. Is this possible? I was planning to pull it out with a knife, but I just heard the shatter sound of the glass. Thanks, Isabel

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Isabel! I would try using a Dremel on the adhesive if you can get to it, trying to avoid touching the tesserae. If you don't need to save the tessera that you want to remove, then that gives you a little more wiggle room with the Dremel. Good luck! Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@isyaya78]

@@JulieWeilbacher Thank you for the reply. I actually left it in there, I just added more of them in different areas, so it doesn't look like they were the only ones (which I was thinking to do that, since I changed the color). I wish I can send you a picture of my final work, but I don't want to be out there in the open. Thx again!

[@stephaniebokor1571]

If I grouted a piece and then it dries and I noticed I missed a few spots, can I just add more grout to the areas I missed?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Stephanie! Yes, you can go back and grout those spots you missed. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!✨

[@gizelegionet7771]

Why you don’t make new video?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! Thanks for asking!😊 It’s coming super soon!!🔥