MOSAIC SUBSTRATES FROM YOUR LEFTOVER GROUT, THINSET, AND CEMENT Using Silicone Molds

In today’s video I’ll show you how to make mosaic substrates from your leftover grout, thinset, and cement. Instead of throwing out extras, turn them into mosaic substrates using silicone molds. I’ll show you how to prep and fill the molds, how to release substrates from the molds, how to clean them up, and tips on tiling and grouting the substrates depending on if you use grout or thinset-mortar to make them. As always, LOTS of tips and tricks throughout.
SKIM THE VIDEO:
00:00​ - INTRO
01:05 - DON’T THROW IT AWAY
03:14 - WHAT ARE SILICONE MOLDS?
05:27 - FILLING THE MOLDS
07:32 - RELEASING THE SUBSTRATES
09:46 - CLEANING UP & TILING YOUR SUBSTRATES
13:20 - QOTD
13:49 - BLOOPERS
VIDEOS TO WATCH NEXT:
→ HOW TO USE A SANDING STONE - • MOSAIC HOW TO: SAND + ...
→ HOW TO USE APOXIE SCULPT IN MOSAIC - • APOXIE SCULPT FOR YOUR...
→ PLAYLIST FOR GROUT & THINSET (MIXING, COLORING, TINTING) - • Mosaic Adhesives + Grout
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ALL ITEMS USED/DISCUSSED IN THIS VIDEO:
SILICONE MOLDS
→ GEM SHAPES - amzn.to/3xuahdp
→ MAPLE LEAVES - amzn.to/3tAuVYe
→ EASTER EGGS - amzn.to/3xushV6
→ HEART (DIAMOND CUT) - amzn.to/3xushV6
→ EASTER EGGS - amzn.to/3zxTRDx
→ BUTTERFLIES - amzn.to/3tyTN2M
→ APPLES - amzn.to/3MIBQ8A
→ SPOON - amzn.to/3tyaTxA
→ HEARTS - amzn.to/3NPvxl7
→ FLOWERS - amzn.to/3xNzrVP
→ HAWAIIAN THEME - amzn.to/39nqxVQ
→ LEAVES - amzn.to/3MQjhzt
→ PUMPKINS - amzn.to/3MQx0pT
→ PUMPKINS - amzn.to/3xXitER
→ OWLS - amzn.to/3Hmt4fB
→ BALLS/SPHERES - amzn.to/3NSarSX
→ DOG BONE/PAW - amzn.to/3aWg1Fx
→ HEART (LARGE) - amzn.to/3QmOTQf
→ BEAR - amzn.to/3OfgQHS
→ LIPS - amzn.to/3xNGLRl
→ GIANT CUPCAKE - amzn.to/3aWhsUr
TOOLS
→ SANDING STONE - amzn.to/3GRBbQN
→ DREMEL - amzn.to/3NS882r
→ SANDING TIP FOR DREMEL - amzn.to/3MNJZIX
→ FILE - amzn.to/3aSS2XC
TESSERAE
→ STAINED GLASS SCRAPS - amzn.to/3lwr5Lx
→ STAINED GLASS IRIDESCENT SCRAPS - amzn.to/3xl1NXn
ADHESIVES + GROUT
→ LEXEL - amzn.to/3Mf0a1G
→ THINSET-MORTAR (white) - amzn.to/3z4eyXB
→ THINSET-MORTAR (gray) - amzn.to/3GyXSt6
→ APOXIE SCULPT (Natural) - amzn.to/3KzhzkX
→ APOXIE SCULPT (White) - amzn.to/3F3d0xU
→ APOXIE SCULPT (Black) - amzn.to/3vxYHOX
→ APOXIE SCULPT (Silver Grey) - amzn.to/3KuAmh3
→ APOXIE SCULPT (Earth Kit) - amzn.to/3s4WFDK
→ APOXIE SCULT (Neutral Kit) - amzn.to/3F2NNUu
→ GROUT (White) - amzn.to/3PFNx2m
→ GROUT (Charcoal Gray) - amzn.to/3LGWplt
MISCELLANEOUS
→ WAX PAPER - amzn.to/3xkMlKO
→ PAINTER’S TAPE - amzn.to/3Le11Qx
→ CRAFT STICKS FOR MIXING - amzn.to/3LTJigL
→ GLOVES FOR GROUTING - amzn.to/3wR0QVj
→ DUST MASK - amzn.to/3NOtttC
→ PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR - amzn.to/3QhRM4L
→ WHITE TRAYS - amzn.to/3xNyrRz
→ PLASTIC SPOONS - amzn.to/3Oe6XtP
→ SCRATCHY SPONGE - amzn.to/3xO2lFq
JULIE’S FAVORITE MOSAIC TOOLS
→ WHEELED GLASS NIPPERS - amzn.to/3EFWQdT
→ GLASS CUTTERS*
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
→ WAFFLE GRID GLASS CUTTING BOARD - amzn.to/3LGWSnJ
→ METAL TOOLS (scalpel for applying Apoxie Sculpt to substrate) - amzn.to/3Lgp9Ce
→ TWEEZERS - amzn.to/3soGH7D
→ PALETTE KNIFE - amzn.to/3lBJs1z
→ WORKSHOP BRUSH - amzn.to/3Ggg5LU
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

[@thecoyoteway5000]

I love the bloopers!

[@timeenuf4200]

I just went into my ignored stash of silicon molds and saw so many wonderful things that could be created with the extra thinset/mortar. What a great idea! Thank you.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Time Enuf! Oh how fun! Might as well use 'em, right?!? Have fun! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@cherylnull9890]

I never would have thought of this idea!!! This is great. Thank you so much again for sharing . Have a great day!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Cheryl! Isn't this so fun? It's great to hear you enjoyed it. Why not do something useful with our leftover grout and thinset?!? There are so many fun silicone shapes out there. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@rupashukla5916]

Just started watching and already love the idea of recycling 😍😍😍 let the port in you soar !!! Would have loved to see each design being mosaiced. Please post how you tiled each pattern. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Rupa! It's great to hear you enjoyed the video.😊 Recycling our leftovers is a good way to save the environment and create unique substrates. Endless possibilities! As for how I'll tile them, sit tight....you know there'll be a video all about that!😉 Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!

[@joycebleazard6274]

I know it’s a silly comment…but I love how you say, “Let’s get to it” in every single video. The accent is so cute.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Joyce! Awww, love that!! Thank you!😊 A few commenters said if I ever write a book, I should name it 'Let's get to it' which I think would be so perfect.😂 Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@rockforester7908]

This has set my mind on fire with ideas.. I have never thought of this. I also wasn’t sure that these molds would hold up with a medium like cement, which I usually work with. Thank you! 🙋‍♀️👍

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Rock Forester! It's such a fun way to use up your leftovers. And with the huge variety of silicone molds out there, you have TONS of options. Have fun with it! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@diannecrea7090]

Sorry I cannot show a photo here, but I make similar using leftovers and created several, one of which I mosaiced, a ladybug, which now sits happily on a rock in my garden! I love all your ideas and am soaking them up like a sponge! 💕

[@j.c.7555]

Great idea Julie! I love it!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi JC! Suddenly the baking isle got a lot more interesting!😂 Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!

[@jenniferchristenson4200]

Yay!!! Such a great idea!!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Jennifer! Thanks so much! I’m glad you enjoyed the video. Keep creating and I’m so glad you’re here!🔥

[@Tanyaaliciasaylor]

Good ideas! Ty!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Tanya! Great to hear you enjoyed the video. Lots of options! Keep creating and I’m thankful you’re here!🔥

[@bevzeiner432]

Thank you so much for your wonderful instructions. It is really encouraging.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Bev! Awww, you're welcome! It's great to hear you're getting some value from my videos. You got this Bev! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@beachlife888]

Julie this is so much better than trying to dump out the leftovers somewhere in a garbage or wherever !!! these new shapes would make great tesserae for the next mosaic! Adding some cool 3-D shapes to a flat substrate , i love this thank you for the demo !! "See YA !" xo

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Mermaid Seahorse! YAY! Great to hear you enjoyed the video. It's a fun way to use up all those leftovers. And with so many silicone mold options available, the sky's the limit! WOO HOO! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@elainefuehrer5739]

Julie, u inspire the heck out of me!.. the "gunk" we get from using our tile/glass saws, we can also use in those molds too,,can only be glass gunk. because we fire them. no ceramics for us. We do use ceramics when we want to make bowls, plates, jewelry, also stainless steal formers, and rings and to do drapes. would love to send u a picture of how u have inspired me

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Elaine! That sounds fascinating! Isn't it great when we can re-use something truly useless?!? If you post to Instagram you can tag me @julieweilbacher. I'd love to see what you're up to! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@judithstodola5521]

Hi Julie! This video is absolutely stinkin' brilliant! Good thinking girl! ❤

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Judith! I thought you might like it. I can hear your creative mind going! Let me know if you make any substrates. Keep creating my friend and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@mrinalinipillay6501]

Julie!!! Love, love absolutely love ur videos….. you have given me a great idea, waiting to try it out . Thank you 🙂

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Mrinalini! Awwww, you're so sweet! Thank you for your kind words!😊 It's great to hear you're enjoying my videos. Warms my heart. Making your own substrates from leftover grout and thinset is soooo fun! There are so many options out there! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@anaschilling2668]

So clever!! Thanks for sharing!! 😍

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Ana! I'm so glad you liked it. Suddenly the baking aisle got a lot more interesting!😂 Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@anaschilling2668]

@@JulieWeilbacher absolutely!! 😂

[@arlenebain5678]

What a great idea! I always have leftovers because I tend to make too much. Will definitely be trying this! Thanks for sharing with us!! ♥️😁

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Arlene! Yay! Great to hear you like the idea. There are so many substrate possibilities with the variety of silicone molds on the market. Have fun with it! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@karenjoncour6151]

What a great choice for a video - loved it! You would probably already know that you can make your own silicone moulds for resin work (see KZbin video by Creative Cat) which I assume you could put thinset and grout substrates in? I like your focus on safety in this video too I don’t think we can be reminded enough about that! Thanks again😊

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Karen! Great to hear you enjoyed the video! Recycling our leftovers is a small thing we can do for the environment....plus we get some really fun substrates! Yes, resin molds work great as well. The sky's the limit! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here! 🙌

[@CosmicHamsters]

I love this idea, I'm going to make some paw print ones :)

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Cosmic Hamsters! Awww, what a fun idea! You could even personalize them with pet names. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@altaappel4568]

tks. I also use the extra cement to create little objects. have a nice day.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Alta Appel! How wonderful! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@elainefuehrer5739]

LOL as a fusing glass artist i fill them with glass powder and water and freeze them. Once frozen i take out the shaped powdered glass, place them on the fusing shelf and put in the kiln. at 600-1285 degree-10 min hold and then off. takes about 20 hrs from start to being able to open kiln. very interesting to see how u use them. Ive done mosaics on glass and fused them in the kiln, But doing what u are doing You can create massive projects

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Elaine! Oh how fun!!!! Thanks for sharing.😊 I love to hear how other artists are using these molds. Your method sounds fascinating! Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@jackied2518]

Love all your work!!! I just found you!!! Thank you . Do you have a video to mosaic on rocks?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Jackie D! Awwww, thanks for your kind words!😊 Welcome to my channel! Stay tuned for a mosaic rocks video. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@Cindy-xj6nt]

I love your videos and thank you so much! A fruend gave me her ild bathroom counter tops, which are glazed. Can i use the coynter top as a substrate?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Cindy! I think you asked this question on another video as well, which I answered. Check your emails. But the short answer is yes.

[@rockforester7908]

Btw your hair is super cute. I would like this style for myself. So pretty. It’s one of those “just right” looks. Trying to work out how this was done…. I’m hopeless with my hair.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Thank you!!😊

[@coleenkelly528]

I used children sand pit toys. a bit fiddly to remove but worked ok

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Coleen! Sand toys! What a great idea. Did you coat the insides with vaseline or oil before you poured in your grout/thinset/cement? Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🙌

[@coleenkelly528]

@@JulieWeilbacher sprayed with oil but Vaseline would do the trick to. I just had olive oil spray to hand

[@cchemmes-seeseeart3948]

If you want to make small, thin pieces from leftover thinset, to use as tiles/ pieces in a mosaic, rather than as a mosaic surface, how would you finish them to prepare for such use? Thanks. (I thought this video was about making your own pieces to add to a larger object, which I now see you call 'substrate' rather than to serve as the substrate itself).

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi there! You can spread thinset over mosaic mesh and create your own tesserae. You can also find candy silicone molds and fill the openings with thinset to create tesserae.🔥

[@judyregini3256]

Julie - do you know if this will work with expired thinset? At least 3 years old?

[@karen-lynpenton2427]

I enjoy your videos! Would it work to mix leftover grout and thinset together to use in silicone molds? And some people use vaseline or oil to prepare their molds but apparently that isn't necessary. Thank you for sharing your tips. I enjoy your videos.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Karen-Lyn! Thank you for your kind words, and great to hear you're enjoying my videos. Good question. It's not ideal to mix them, but it'll work, especially because you'll be tiling over them anyway. You just need them to cure and form a hard substrate. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🙌

[@EricaGamet]

I tried this very experiment a couple of weeks ago! I bought square candy molds to make my own tesserae. But I thought it wasn't working, because after 5 days the thinset still wasn't hard at the bottom. Maybe I just need to be more patient and let it sit for a couple weeks? Maybe the grout would work better than thinset? Thanks, Julie... timely as always!

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Erica! Oh how fun! I actually prefer the end result of using thinset more than grout. I just let the thinset (and grout!) sit and cure for many, many days. Try it again with your next batch of leftovers. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@anitaward4558]

Can you mix the grout and thin set together when making a small substrate ?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Anita! Yes, I do it all the time. Just give it time to fully cure and then pull your substrates out. I would only do this method if you're planning to full cover it with your mosaic art, otherwise the exposed areas which are a mix of substrate materials might look a little funny. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here!🔥

[@diannecrea7090]

Do you seal the grout and cement based pieces before mosaicing?

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Dianne! I don't. I just tile right on top of them using thinset as my adhesive. Keep creating and I'm thankful you're here.🔥

[@anitaward4558]

I have used this method to make bees and butterflies. The hardest part was trying to put a thin rod into the mold. I cut the mold where l Wanted the rod but them the mold tore easily. Any tips please.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Anita! Yeah, silicone is not very forgiving once there's a tear in the material and it's filled with cement-based products. You could try reinforcing the outside of the silicone mold with duct tape, and then pierce the mold where you want to insert the rod?🤔

[@janawall3306]

I wish you could show how you use these in a piece of work.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Jana! I have. Check out these videos: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i4rIf418Z6uXrtE and kzbin.info/www/bejne/e5Crmp9-qbp-a5Y. Keep creating and I'm glad you're here!🔥

[@KMF3]

Do you ever line the molds with cornstarch

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi KMF! Never. There's no need. The grout and cement don't stick.🙌

[@KMF3]

@@JulieWeilbacher thanks

[@tamaraharrop3750]

What is a thin set called in the U.K.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Tamara! You want to look for cement-based adhesive with brand names like: Ardex, Mapei Keraquik, Isomat, Laticrete, Masterflex, and Rabond. Keep creating and I'm so glad you're here!🔥

[@elainefuehrer5739]

Julie, im not sure how to connect with u on Instagram.

[@JulieWeilbacher]

Hi Elaine! If you post to Instagram, just put the @ sign in front of my name (julieweilbacher) and when you see my picture and name show up in the list, click on it then write your post. I'll get notified that you mentioned me.....and I'll get to see your lovely work!✨