Face Tape Mosaic Method

[@curlyjos]

Gorgeous

[@scottschoenick9944]

Very helpful, thank you so much!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Glad it was helpful!

[@cwaller7008]

This is how I did my very first piece, I wanted to see the finished design before I glued it. So glad to see i wasn't a lunatic.

[@Gabriel-gabriel]

you're such a calm teacher,very nice,thank you.

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for being a fan!

[@savedfaves]

Best mosaic channel I’ve found. Thank you. I’ve yet to buy tools but I will. Learning.

[@MakeitMosaics]

THANK YOU for being a fan.

[@sherrywallis7718]

I've used this method many times, and for complicted or detailed images, it is a life saver, especially if you need the colors identified on the substrate. One caution is that you can't really have any very small pieces because they will easily get jostled out of position. The pencil trick is a real winner. Thanks for suggesting that.

[@pattyw442]

Thank you so much! I’ve always wondered how to do this. I’ve seen instructions in books but never really understood until now after seeing your video. You two are awesome!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Our pleasure, thanks for being a fan!

[@jeannescicluna8606]

Me too!!!

[@jeannescicluna8606]

Thanks. I've been creating mosaics for years using only the direct method. This video has expanded my ability to create. ❤❤

[@MakeitMosaics]

Glad it was helpful!

[@wolfgang4468]

Exactly what i was looking for, thank you very much!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Please subscribe to the channel, really helps us stay motivated to do more.

[@wolfgang4468]

​@@MakeitMosaics I already subscribed some months ago ☺

[@LucyFairweather]

Great video! I’m wanting to make a Victorian style floor in my entrance and need it to lie flat-what method would work best for this? I want to make most of it beforehand and then install it all at once

[@Hlegzudas]

I loooove this. So beautiful. Love picture, love the colors! Amazing!

[@MakeitMosaics]

You made my day! Thanks for being a fan!

[@aoife-mp1ht]

What a wonderful tutorial. The end result is stunning. Thank you so much!

[@MakeitMosaics]

You are so welcome!

[@marwam6778]

Thanks❤

[@carolzutski7739]

I did a zoom class with John Sollinger, fluid double reverse, and he said a lot of people hate his method hate it, because you have to be very careful not to bump it, but I cheated and used some tape under my tiny pieces and just removed it after all my other pieces were cut and also I put "PRESS & SEAL" over the top of an area with a lot of tiny pieces before the board on top and flip. I could not find the FROSTY you mentioned and I am glad I didn't find it, cause it saved me a lot of money to find out what I already had in my kitchen worked great! Highly recommend everyone to try the Press N Seal

[@MakeitMosaics]

Sometimes there are unexpected alternatives.

[@glasslight7960]

Glad to find your site!! I had your book (300+ tips, techniques etc) on my bookshelf and never put the two together (duh). I have many stained glass scraps and planned to use them in mosaics. My starting piece was a small glass on glass ungrouted. You've inspired me to expand my attempts with additional materials. Thanks a bunch!!

[@MakeitMosaics]

You are very welcome - when folks like you share that we've inspired, well it just makes all the hard work so worth it. Thanks for being a fan.

[@MsK-xm7vw]

I would have never considered using tape for the reverse method. So nice and clean. I Will definitely give this method a try with the little ones, it'll make life so much easier. Isn't it funny how things are right in front of us, and we don't see it until somebody else points it out. Thanks a bunch.

[@MakeitMosaics]

Our pleasure. Keep creating!

[@elenalevitskaya2765]

Thank you very much for your kind reply!

[@everyoneisoffthehook]

So helpful! I was wondering about patterns and how to use them ❤

[@MakeitMosaics]

Glad this was helpful, really helpful method. Thanks for being a fan.

[@MoonLeaf_RaquelLeBaudour]

Exactly what I needed. Thank you! 🍃☀️🍃

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thank you for being a fan!

[@kara-miasmosaics6990]

Wow!! Thanks so much for this excellent video and very helpful mosaic tips.

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for being a fan.

[@Lanaforeva]

I think I’m going to try this when I mosaic a portrait! This is so helpful! Thanks so much

[@MakeitMosaics]

You are so welcome!

[@patriciahawk5648]

Very helpful 😊

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for being a fan.

[@lorrainehayes4688]

Excellent.❤️❤️❤️

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thank you! Cheers! Please subscribe to our channel, keeps us motivated!!

[@Photomomlove]

How difficult would it be to transfer the tile, taped together on the front, directly to a vertical wall with thin-set? It is not no a mosaic, but translucent tile.

[@MakeitMosaics]

This method comes from the tile trade and is commonly used for vertical installations. Indeed the appropriate adhesive would be thin-set mortar. I use brands with more stick for installations, such as Laticrete 254. This video titled Mosaic Columns on the channel will provide some additional insights kzbin.info/www/bejne/pH7XpX-emNSFbLc. Good luck.

[@slimsslim921]

very easy and useul technique thans so much

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for being a fan!

[@lindabricker1270]

Very cool. Thanks

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thank for being a fan!

[@lorenza6431]

de cuantos milimetros de espesor son las baldodas ? grscias

[@MakeitMosaics]

São todos espessuras diferentes, por isso utilizamos o método inverso. (Google Translate)

[@cristinaordon2888]

Thank you so much for sharing your art !

[@MakeitMosaics]

And thank you for being a fan!

[@interplanetary4809]

Great video, Bonnie!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for being a fan.

[@MakeitMosaics]

The reverse method is most often recommended for floors unless all of your materials are exactly the same thickness-otherwise, you invite a trip hazard. This video explains: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJeYo6SObrh_j6s. Thanks for being a fan; we appreciate your subscribing to our channel.

[@MakeitMosaics]

¿Quizás Google Translate? gracias por ser un fan!

[@AnnetteRintelmann]

THANKS SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thank you for being a fan! This is a terrific technique to have in your tool box.

[@KuskokwimGigi]

Best indirect method instruction video I have ever watched.🩵

[@MakeitMosaics]

Glad it was helpful!

[@estherb1938]

What great tips and tricks. Thank you

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for being a fan.

[@sundaysunshine2925]

Thanks

[@Titanicman]

Where do you get your tables etc etc to mosaic them?

[@MakeitMosaics]

There are many substrate options. I recommend you watch the videos on our playlist titled Beginner Mosaics: Where to Start. There are lots of ideas and options detailed there. The table featured in the tabletop video is from Amazon. Specifically, watch the video titled Mosaic Table Top. Here is the link to Amazon: amzn.to/3Pb7nE9. Good luck, and thanks for watching!

[@adrianajuraic8569]

Como puedo traducir este video?

[@lovenottheworld5723]

It's one of those things that's just so obvious and so brilliant, but it takes a genius to think of it.

[@MakeitMosaics]

Glad we were helpful! Keep creating and thanks for being a fan!

[@shaidyn8278]

I'm just getting started on my mosaic journey, and this is a great technique for me because it reduces the number of times I can screw something up. Out of curiousity, what's your opinion on grouting the glass from the back, when the face tape is on, and then setting it onto thinset?

[@MakeitMosaics]

I rarely back grout, especially if my adhesive is Weldbond. When would I think about back grouting? Maybe if using ceramic that is thicker, but for stained glass and glass tiles I don't see it as an enhancement unless.....if my adhesive is white thin-set and I plan to grout dark. Thinset sometimes leaches into the grout if thin-set has not had a "full cure" (several days - 28 days per manufacturer). Then again, I would probably tint my thin-set darker to avoid the thinset leaching....unless my glass is translucent. Oh, so many variables and so many ways to skin a Cat! Hope this helps a bit. Bonnie

[@chrisrossomando201]

This is how I learned to mosaic. You also can face tape sections of the mosaic as you go, as long as you make sure that all parts are covered by the end. This makes it easier to do larger, complicated designs with small pieces.

[@MakeitMosaics]

It is a good technique and can be a huge time saver.

[@mexipatti]

why do you use frosty instead of clear contact paper?

[@MakeitMosaics]

I think the Frosty is slightly less sticky so let’s go easier. just an option.

[@dorothyheisey2150]

Thank you so much!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Our pleasure. Keep creating!

[@Pedigree24]

Subscribed😊

[@kitstrandberg8747]

So many tips. Thank you

[@elizabethgallery5660]

I have been making mosaics since 1999 and just saw on this video something new that I can use: Rolling tile tape over a pencil to remove it without pulling up tesserae from less than solidly dry thinset. Betsy Gallery in Santa Barbara, CA

[@liezelmanea2374]

Nice trick

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for being a fan!

[@j.c.7555]

This was explained extremely well and I couldn’t be more pleased you shared this video. So much to learn. I want to order your book…is one more for beginners and which one? Thank you so much!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for your interest. The books are different. 300+ Tips is loaded with quick tips and some templates, "Mosaic Technique" is filled with beautiful images and gives comprehensive technical information. I think you need them both! If you purchase directly from me I sign maverickmosaics.com/mosaic-kits/

[@patriciakerr2486]

@@MakeitMosaics I tried to see the books on website but couldn't access. Are they still available?

[@4EverYoung327]

Really beautiful, and great info!!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for being a fan.

[@acts10truth]

Ty for this video

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thank you for being a fan! Kee creating.

[@sstarkey1695]

So informative. So beautiful!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks for being a fan, much apprecaited!

[@montanaweaverkim]

How long can the mosaic tape stay on the tiles and still release? I am making a large piece and each section will be taped. It will be a few weeks before I thinset them down. Will the tape over stick by then?

[@MakeitMosaics]

The contact paper on the bottom will stay sticky for awhile, especially if you can keep it clean. I cover areas i’m not working on with the original cover from the contact paper. Once you are happy with an area you can tape that section. When I do large installation pieces I work in sections, check out my video about mosaic columns, that shows good example. Good luck!!

[@montanaweaverkim]

@@MakeitMosaics thank you, that really helped. I am doing sections as well but was second guessing this tape. And what a cool project you all did!

[@maraalmeidadughi3871]

I just loved it!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Glad you found helpful!

[@aplicqu8761]

Dear Bonnie/Kim: I'm interested in seeing you do a birdbath mosaic which means the mosaic will not be completely flat due to the "saucer" shape of the birdbath "pan." Maybe you've done this in the past... Lead me to it if you have.

[@bevturquoise4651]

Thanks for the info....is your drawing of the bee still underneath?? Thank you in advance.

[@MakeitMosaics]

The outline is now covered with adhesive and the tile, so no paper pattern underneath, I transferred the outline on to the substrate as a guide for my adhesive. Hope that helps.

[@bethoverton-]

Will this work if you want to use as a pictured backsplash? Can you move it to a wall?

[@MakeitMosaics]

I am sorry I don't understand your question, Please clarify.

[@bethoverton-]

So your final board is not a wall. I am a little confused will the contact paper with glass mosaic still work if pressing it to a vertical (wall) instead of on a table (flat). I want to create a sunflower backsplash behind my kitchen sink. Do I use glue or the tile adhesive I am using for the subway tiles around it? I removed the old tiles and have the old wallboard up.

[@patriciakerr2486]

How do you decide between this method and mesh?

[@MakeitMosaics]

Great question, no easy answer! Considerations: mesh you can have materials different thicknesses, better for columns, super easy to change your mind, when installing can clean up grout lines easily, face tape less likely you’ll loose any pieces during “installation, easier to “see” image or pattern, cheaper (although the mesh is not terribly expensive). I look at case by case, job by job. I’ve done both on both large and small projects. Good luck!

[@joychip5994]

Wow I like this way did you grout the stained glass

[@MakeitMosaics]

Final art work was grouted with sanded grout. Thanks for being a fan.

[@joychip5994]

@@MakeitMosaics I have a couple of your books you got me started I have missed your videos I'm not intrested in jewelry but have you used resin in any of your mosaics I'm trying to put a photograph of a house put having to open the resin my first attempt as I am a real novice thank you for replying

[@MakeitMosaics]

Thanks.

[@MakeitMosaics]

Sorry I do not have any relevant experience with resin, but suspect if you go to manufactures website they will have information, possibly video demonstrations, good luck and thanks for being a fan.

[@elenalevitskaya2765]

Hello, I'm also a fun of your work and have some of your books. Thanks so much ! My questions: - are all pieces hand cut or you had to use wet saw and grinder? (such intricate work) - when cutting, do you use a numbered pattern for each piece? (sorry, if those are too ordinary questions, but I"m in the process of trying different methods, and I'm still unclear about precise cutting, since all mosaicists work differently). Thank you beforehand. Best of all.

[@stclareofassisichurchdesig5287]

Thank you for this video! I am not a professional mosaic artist, but I am creating 6 large floor mosaics for a new church being built in Charleston, SC. I am considering the indirect face tape method so I can do them in sections. How long will the adhesive on the contact papers or special tile tape last when these mosaics will not be installed for about a year and a half? I will need to store them once they are completed. Have you ever done large floor mosaics with smalti and unglazed porcelain (combo) and do you have any videos for this?

[@MakeitMosaics]

Italian smalti does not like this method unless using the skin side (because it is beveled, not flat). The height difference between unglazed porcelain and smalti is pretty significant. I would recommend you do reverse method on brown paper (see video on channel). Regardless MAKE A FEW PROTOTYPES! For tape method depends in part how and where you will store. Try both methods. Another concern with face tape, too much heat (thinking SC) and the adhesive may get really sticky and melt - not sure how cooperative to remove. Not an easy answer, if you drop me a note via Maverick Mosaics website happy to elaborate. Good luck!

[@judithruiz6723]

I have a prefabricated Schluter@shower pan that is 30x60 inches. I want to create a simple spiral or circular effect on the floor of the pan with penny tiles. Do I use the same Contact@ paper to keep my dry fit design in place before thin setting the bottom to the floor and later grouting it?? If so, tell me the exact name and size of the product I should purchase?

[@MakeitMosaics]

Recommend you look at video on channel about making mosaic columns, for that project used high-fire ceramic and "mosaic tile tape" (witsendmosac.com) , which is much stronger than contact paper and may be more appropriate for your project. The theory with mosaic tile tape is you leave tape on after setting face-taped ties in mud until cured, then take off and grout. I ALWAYS recommend when in doubt make small tests! "Contact" is the brand, there is regular "Contact Paper" and "Frosty" and available in couple of sizes, available Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware and amazon. Good luck!

[@terriatwell4041]

Thank you for the video. I have not been able to find Frosty paper. What is it made for? Do you have a source you can share?

[@MakeitMosaics]

I can usually pick up Frosty at Home Depot or Lowe’s where shelf covering sold, I have also purchased on amazon. Good luck!

[@jdlamar5338]

What are the properties of Frosty? How does it differ than the regular clear contact paper? Is it thicker or less sticky? Thanks for a great video!

[@maureenchorny6299]

What is the difference between the regular contact paper and the Frosty one? Can you not use contact paper on both sides?

[@MakeitMosaics]

Great question. You can indeed use regular contact paper on both sides. Just recently I was enlightened to "Frosty", it releases much easier so on a piece like the stained glass video I knew some pieces would wiggle and would need adjusting. Also, it can be challenging to get just the right amount of glue in place so removing the face tape promptly may be necessary. That being said, the theory is that nothing moves, perfect amount of glue and the face tape can stay in place until adhesive dries. Good luck and thanks for being a fan.

[@ahabajablast1335]

Do you have a recommended method for sending a mosaic to a person ready to be installed? I want to send mosaic tiles that people can put on their bathroom floor or on their stepping stones, etc. (outdoor and indoor may be different, I know). The sizes may vary but most of the time the mosaic would be small. I'm wondering if it's best that I thinset and grout it first or just send it with mesh or tape holding it together. Thanks! I'm so glad I found this channel!

[@MakeitMosaics]

Really depends on skill of the "installer", certainly would be more cost effective to ship un-mounted and un-grouted. I have colleagues who have had good success having a 3rd party do the finishing, both mesh method and face tape, and of course many mosaics coming out of Italy and Mexico are paper mounted so not really a preferred method. If small, I might like to have control over all and client receives completed. How about offering both ways, some folks may appreciate the cost savings, others may prefer the convenience of it arriving ready to display.

[@ahabajablast1335]

@@MakeitMosaics Thanks, that's a good idea to give them the option!

[@skrtskit1521]

Do you need to apply thinset to the wedi board before you start placing tiles on with thinset or can you just apply directly to the wedi board? I guess long question short, do you need to do any prep work prior to placing tiles? (besides hanging hardware) Obviously a newbie here... 💖🐱‍👤

[@MakeitMosaics]

No prep work on Wedi, it is already cement. Good luck!!

[@susanbanta1930]

Hi Bonnie & Kim! I've just used this method to construct my first mosaic (yay!), but after removing the contact paper from the back notice a fair amount of adhesive residue on the glass tessarae (on the side that will be glued to the substrate (in my case, glass). Do I need to clean this off before gluing?

[@MakeitMosaics]

It should be fine - is this glue from the contact paper or in the back of the tessarae? What are your tess? My only concern is if this is glass on glass and transparent is that adhesive "seen", and then what glue are you using to adhere to glass substrate?

[@susanbanta1930]

@@MakeitMosaics Thanks for the quick reply! it is the glue from the contact paper on the back of the tessarae -- which are stained glass. Was planning on using weldbond or MAC glue to adhere to glass substrate

[@MakeitMosaics]

That rarely happens, unless sticky paper was on there for a long time. Suggest you. pull a few random pieces off and see if you "See" the sticky when light passes through. If you don't see anything then I would let well enough alone. If you do see then maybe with a Q-tip and a touch of "goo be gone" or nail olish remover clean off the glass. The face tape should hold fine for a couple of days.

[@julieganskop5051]

I've never done Mosaic before, I ordered books from the library, waiting for my order. Lots of KZbin. So confused. For a beginner, what is the easier pattern to follow. With COVID nothing is open to ask questions.

[@MakeitMosaics]

I am sorry I did not get back to you sooner. Somehow your question fell between the cracks. Thank you for being a fan!

[@MakeitMosaics]

You can get signed copies from Bonnie, scroll down this page: maverickmosaics.com/mosaic-kits/

[@Gabriel-gabriel]

😊👍