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MOSIAC TERMINOLGY
Definition of Mosaic:
Mosaic is an ancient and contemporary art form which uses individual pieces of materials, placed together leaving gaps between, to create a unified whole. The materials commonly used are glass, ceramic, marble, pebble, mirror, shells and china.
Substrate
The base which is used in a mosaic… i.e. wood, metal, cement, glass etc.
Tessera (Plural: Tesserae)
The term for each piece of material used in a mosaic. Collective term for all the pieces is “tesserae”. Tessera means “a cube”.
Interstices (pronounced in-tur-stuh-seez)
The term for the spaces in between where grout is placed.
Andamento (Italian for “flow)
This is the visual movement of your mosaic created by placing tesserae in specific patterns, in order for you to achieve a desired image.
Opus (Latin for “work of art or literary work”)
In the world of mosaic it relates to the various ways that pieces are cut and placed on the substrate to create the flow.
• Opus regulatum: A grid; all tesserae align both vertically and horizontally. (checkerboard)
• Opus tessellatum: Tesserae form vertical or horizontal rows, but not both. (staggered like a brick wall)
• Opus reticulatum: Similar to opus regulatum and opus tessellatum but the lines are slanted (like a diamond shape)
• Opus vermiculatum: A single row of tesserae following the outline of a focal point. Or more than one row used to create “halo” effect. Background completed in different contrasting opus.
• Opus musivum: Vermiculatum extends throughout the entire background.
• Opus palladianum: Instead of forming rows, tesserae are irregularly shaped. Also known as “crazy paving”.
• Opus sectile: A major shape (e.g. heart, letter, cat) is formed by a single tessera.
• Opus classicum: When vermiculatum is combined with tessellatum or regulatum.
• Opus circumactum: Tesserae are laid in overlapping semicircles or fan shapes.
MOSAIC TECHNIQUES
MOSAIC TECHNIQUIES :There are three main methods used to create Mosaic Tile Art: the direct method, the indirect method and the double indirect method.
1. The direct method of mosaic construction involves directly placing (gluing) the individual tesserae onto the supporting surface. This method is well suited to surfaces that have a three-dimensional quality, such as vases. The direct method suits small projects that are transportable. Another advantage of the direct method is that the resulting mosaic is progressively visible, allowing for any adjustments to tile colors placement.
The disadvantage of the direct method is that the artist must work directly at the chosen surface, which is often not practical for long periods of time, especially for large-scale projects. Also, it is difficult to control the evenness of the finished surface. This is of particular importance when creating a functional surface such as a floor or a table top.
2. The indirect method of applying tesserae is often used for very large projects, projects with repetitive elements or for areas needing site specific shapes. Tiles are applied face-down to a backing paper using an adhesive, and later transferred onto walls, floors or craft projects. This method is most useful for extremely large projects as it gives the maker time to rework areas. Mosaic murals, benches and tabletops are some of the items usually made using the indirect method, as it results in a smoother and more even surface.
3. The double indirect method can be used when it is important to see the work during the creation process as it will appear when completed. The tesserae are placed face-up on a medium (often adhesive-backed paper or sticky plastic) as it will appear when installed. When the mosaic is complete, a similar medium is placed atop it. The piece is then turned over, the original underlying material is removed, and the piece is installed as in the indirect method described above. In comparison to the indirect method, this is a fussy system to use and leads to a significant probability of damaging the work. The advantage is that it allows the work to be completed in the studio as opposed to on site.
For more information on mosaic terminology check out the following website:
http://www.thejoyofshards.co.uk/glossary/
MOSAIC MATERIALS
1. Vitreous Glass (20 x 20 mm)
Vitreous glass tiles offer a fantastic range of colours at reasonable prices. Solid colours tend to be more expensive. These tiles come mounted on mesh or paper. Try to get them on paper as they are easier to remove the tiles when needed. Each sheet contains 225 tiles, but they are also available in half and quarter sheets.
Keep an eye out for sales on mixed or hobby bags. However, be aware that these often contain fewer red and orange tiles, and the remaining colours may not be as vibrant.
These tiles also come in a 10 x 10 mm size—four of these make up a 20 x 20 mm tile. They are great for children since they do not require cutting.
For cutting:
• Wheeled nippers work best.
• Tile nippers can be used, but they tend to cause more breakage and waste.
Vitreous tiles are a core material in mosaics. They have small pits on the surface, which can trap grout during finishing—unfortunately, this is unavoidable.
They come with a right and wrong side. The right side is usually smooth, and the underside has ridges or grooves. The grooved side gives more grip for the adhesive, but it is possible to lay them this side up. Some opt to do this as it creates more texture, but be aware that if grouting the piece, the grout will get caught in the grooves.
2. Unglazed Winkelman Tiles
Available in many sizes and mounted on either mesh or paper. Opt for paper when possible. These tiles are easy to cut with either tile nippers or glass nippers. However, if using the glass nippers, the nippers will lose its’ edge quite quickly.
The advantage of this tile is that depending on the brand you can use either side, so if you make an incorrect cut, you can just turn it upside down.
3. Iridescent Glass Tiles
These glass tiles have a shimmering, iridescent surface. They are more expensive than vitreous tiles but can add a beautiful touch when mixed with core tiles.
4. Puzzle Glass
Perfect for children! These tiles have rounded edges, making them safe to handle. They are available with a glitter backing and in a wide range of colours. They can also be cut and are excellent for filling small spaces. For the best look, lay them close together before grouting.
5. Gems & Stones
You can find these in fish shops, IKEA, and pound stores. They can also be cut using glass nippers.
6. Glazed Ceramic Tiles
These tiles come in assorted sizes and look especially beautiful when combined with unglazed ceramic for a contrasting finish. They are easy to cut.
7. Smalti
The premium choice for mosaics, Smalti is used in traditional Byzantine-style mosaics and is not grouted. These tiles are produced in large sheets and then hand-cut into assorted sizes. They come in a vast range of colours but are quite expensive.
8. Stained Glass
Typically sold in 12-inch square sheets, though some mosaic suppliers offer bags of random shapes. They provide a beautiful range of colours.
9. Other Materials for Mosaics
You can also incorporate:
a. Broken costume jewellery
b. Millefiori
c. Crockery
d. Marbles
e. Buttons
f. Shells
g. Keys
h. Beads
i. Coins
j. Stones/Pebbles
k. Nuts/Bolts
MOSAIC SUPPLIES
IRELAND
1. Right Price Tiles: (Nationwide):
a. Glass Mosaic sheets (225 tiles per sheet) Limited colours (Great starting out)
b. Unglazed ceramic mosaic tiles (again in limited colours… but good to get started on
2. Mosaic Assemblers – Fonthill Road (Near Liffey Valley)
Contact: Peter Morrison
Peter offers mixed mosaic tile boxes (a lucky dip style) for approximately €50 per box. These typically contain a large number of unglazed Winkelman ceramic mosaic tiles in a limited range of colours. However, you might get lucky and find some beautiful iridescent glass mosaic tiles—which are highly reflective and quite expensive—along with vitreous tiles.
Since the contents are random, it’s a bit of a gamble, but definitely worth considering for variety and value.
One downside: Some boxes include tiles of varying thicknesses, which can be tricky for beginners to work with.
3. Tile Style – Ballymount Industrial Park (Exit 10, M50 Southbound)
Tile Style offers a fantastic range of glass mosaic tiles, though they can be on the expensive side, and prices may have changed. If you’re passing by, it’s definitely worth stopping in to take a look.
They also have a great selection of high-quality glazed ceramic tiles (similar to kitchen wall tiles) in beautiful, vibrant colours—a great option if you’re considering mosaicking with ceramic.
4. Local Tile shops in general: Every time you pass a tile shop in your local area, call in. You never know what they have in stock.
5. B&Q – Nationwide (Highly recommended for materials, grout, glue, tools, etc.)
They sometimes offer small mini glass mosaic tiles in red, green, blue, and yellow (approx. 10mm x 10mm). Each sheet contains around 700 tiles and cost is approximately €7.30 per sheet—these go a long way! They also have the same colours in a slightly larger size.
They stock 4-inch x 4-inch wall tiles, which are great as bases for small projects. Additionally, they sell boxes of 44 tiles (6-inch x 6-inch), perfect for kids’ projects (€5.30 per box). Remember to seal these if using them as a base.
B&Q also sells wheeled nippers (approx. €15, (a great option for beginners) as well as tile nippers
UK
For shipments from the UK to the Republic of Ireland – be very careful as you may be charged import taxes.
UK has left the EU
1 Mosaic Heaven www.mosaicheaven.com
2 Mosaic Direct www.mosaicsdirect.co.uk
3 Mosaic Workshop www.mosaicworkshop.com
4 Hobby Island Mosaics www.hobby-island.co.uk –Thomas here is very helpful.
5 The Mosaic Shop www.themosaicshop.co.uk
6 The Crafty Glass Box www.thecraftyglassbox.com
NETHERLANDS
This is a better option as you are dealing in Euro, however sometimes postage can be costly.
1. The Craft Kit www.thecraftkit.com (this is the same supplier as Mosaic Trader, but is the order website for non-professional mosaic makers)
2. Mosaic Trader www.mosaictrader.com (this is the wholesale supplier for professional mosaic makers, and prices are discounted)
3. Tiles and Tools www.tilesandtools.eu
USA
Dollar is great but again watch postage. If you have relatives in US a lot of the mosaic businesses post free of charge within the US and then your relatives can post on:
1 Maryland Mosaics: www.marylandmosics.com
2 Mosaic Art Supply www.mosaicartsupplies.com
3 Tiny Pieces
4 Tiny Tile Mosaics www.tinytilemosaics.com
5 Murrano Millifori (based in New Jersey)
6 Mosaic Mercantile www.mosaicmercantile.com
7 Wits End www.witsendmosaic.com
EBAY/AMAZON
Keep checking these sites. Search mosaic tiles and you can find some bargains.. to add to your collection
SUBSTRATES
Substrates for Mosaics
How to Check if a Surface is Porous:
If you’re unsure whether a substrate is porous, place a drop of water on it. If the water soaks in, the surface is porous and must be sealed before use.
Common Substrates and Their Uses
• MDF (Interior Use Only) – A popular and affordable option that can be cut into various shapes. However, it must be sealed before use with either:
- A mixture of 2 parts PVA glue and 1 part water
o Unibond PVA sealer - If left unsealed, the MDF will absorb water from the grout too quickly, causing it to crack!
• Plywood (Interior Use Only) – Similar to MDF, must be sealed before use. An inexpensive option.
• Metal (Exterior & Interior Use) – Non-porous, so sealing is not required.
• Ceramic Tiles (Exterior & Interior Use) – The terracotta (unglazed) side must be sealed before use, not the glazed side. Mosaics should be applied to the terracotta side.
• Tile Backer Board (Exterior & Interior Use) – Popular brands include Marmox, Jackoboard, Wedi Board, and Uniproof.
- Great for outdoor use—lightweight and durable.
- Can be cut into shapes using a Stanley knife or jigsaw.
- Available in bathroom stores in 4 x 2 ft sheets (some stores sell individual sheets). A box of five sheets costs around €140.
- Only the edges need to be sealed—use tile adhesive for sealing.
- Tip for outdoor tables: If working on an existing wooden garden table, cut a piece of Wedi board to size and secure it with Grip Fill to make it waterproof and stable.
• Paving Slabs (Exterior Use) – Pre-made paving slabs work well for creating stepping stones.
Finding Affordable Wooden Substrates
Certain IKEA items work great as wooden substrates (no sealing required), such as:
• IKEA mirror – €2
• IKEA stool – approximately €11
• IKEA step ladder – €12–€16
Other budget-friendly options:
- Penneys (Primark) Homeware Department – Look for picture frames and wooden hanging pieces that can be mosaicked.
- Pound shops – Great for finding solid wooden substrates. Ensure the piece is sturdy enough to support the weight of tiles and grout.
- Dealz – sometimes have themed bases, around easter, ie.. rabbit shapes etc.
- Home Store and More – Again have bases at certain time of years, i.e. Christmas and Easter shapes.
- The Range – Same as Dealz and Home Store and More above.
HANGING MECHANISM
Hanging Finished Mosaic Art
Since finished mosaics can be quite heavy, it’s essential to choose the right hanging mechanism to securely support the piece.
Hanging Options:
• Sawtooth Hangers – Ideal for wooden bases. They can be tricky to find, but check picture framing shops.
• D Hooks – Another good option, available in picture framing shops.
• Invisible Disk Plate Hanger – Available in craft shops, these are great for hanging ceramic tiles with mosaic artwork. They come in different sizes to support various weights.
Hanging Wedi Board Wall Art
Important: The hanging mechanism must be attached before mosaicking.
Wedi board has a foam core covered in a cement layer, so screws alone won’t hold. Instead, you’ll need to:
- Glue a washer-type fitting to both the front and back of the board.
- When attaching the mosaic to the wall, the washer will prevent the screw from pulling through.
It’s a bit tricky to explain in writing, so if you need help when you’re ready to hang your piece, feel free to reach out.
French Cleat (Best for Mosaic Art!)
This is a really good way to hang mosaic art and it looks very professional. It must be attached to MDF or plywood before mosaicking.
A French cleat consists of two interlocking wooden slats:
• One slat is fixed to the wall.
• The other is attached to the back of the mosaic substrate.
• The two pieces have matching angled cuts that slot together, securely holding the artwork in place.
This method is invisible, providing a clean, professional look with no visible hooks or hangers. A carpenter or someone comfortable cutting wood will need to make it.
If you’re unfamiliar with French cleats, Google “French Cleat” for reference images—it’s much easier to understand visually!
ADHESIVES
PVA Wood Glue (Interior Use Only)
• Great for use with children.
• Evo-Stik PVA, comes highly recommended. It comes in a green bottle and is widely available in hardware stores.
• There is also a blue bottle version, labelled as waterproof, but it is still not really suitable for exterior use.
• Important: ALL PVA glue is for INDOOR use only.
Tile Adhesive (Interior & Exterior Use)
• Cement-based adhesive (known as “thinset” in the U.S.).
• Available in interior and exterior versions—always use the correct type for your project (e.g., for a paving slab, use exterior-quality tile adhesive).
• Also available pre-mixed, but it is widely though that mixing your own adhesive as opposed to using the pre-mixed version allows you better consistency and control.
Silicone (Exterior Use)
• Sold in large tubes (requires a silicone gun) and also in small tubes from some mosaic suppliers—these are especially handy.
• Best for flexible surfaces like metal because silicone itself is flexible and allows for expansion.
• Downside: Strong odor and not suitable for children. If using, work in a well-ventilated area.
No More Nails (Interior Use Only)
• No More Nails works well for interior mosaics.
GROUT
To Grout or Not to Grout?
Grouting is a personal preference—some people love it, while others prefer to skip it.
If you decide not to grout, here’s a helpful tip:
• Paint the substrate in a colour that matches your tiles before applying them.
• Use PVA glue (which dries clear) to attach the tiles.
• Place the tiles close together to minimize gaps, this way if there are small spaces between the tiles, the paint colour will show through instead of the plain brown backing board.
Pros & Cons of Grouting:
• No grout = the colour of tiles is more vibrant, as grout can slightly mute the overall look.
• However, if you choose not to grout, your tile cutting needs to be precise, since grout helps disguise small imperfections.
Choosing the Right Grout
Grout comes in interior and exterior grades, as well as sanded and unsanded varieties.
• Sanded grout is best for mosaics. It is the most common type and provides a strong finish.
• Unsanded grout has a smooth texture but can be harder to work with and doesn’t always look as nice.
• Check the specifications on the grout bag. Some grouts allow for a maximum space so you will then know what the maximum space you can leave between the tesserae.
• If you want to test a grout colour, sprinkle a small bit of the grout, (no water added), to the mosaic and see how it looks. When you have decided if you like it or not, simple spill it out and most of the powder will fall out, allowing you to grout it permanently with the colour of your choice.
CUTTING TOOLS
Wheeled Glass Tile Cutters
Several brands:
• Lepponit (€25–€28) – a high-quality option.
• Breda (€80) – very good if you suffer from arthritis – well worth the investment if you are going to mosaic a lot
• Seabell – this brand does wheeled nippers and also nippers for unglazed ceramic tiles. (€70-€100). Again, these are really good.
• Budget Option: A generic version is available at B&Q/Woodies for around €17.
• Replaceable Wheels: The wheels can be rotated with an Allen key, extending their lifespan.
Best for: Glass tiles but also works on unglazed ceramic (though this may wear down the wheels faster).
Cutting Tip:
• Place the wheel in the centre of the tile for a clean cut.
• Hold the cutters as far down the handle as possible to maximize leverage.
Ordinary Tile Cutters/Nippers
• Available at any hardware store (€15–€20).
• Primarily used for unglazed tiles.
Cutting Tip:
- Place the cutters on the edge of the tile when cutting.
- Hold the handles low down for better control and leverage.
WHERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MOSAICS
Where to find out more about mosaics?
- Other Workshops: Do as many as you can with as many different people as you can. You will learn something different at them all. Helen McClean, Wexford. Mulranny Arts, in Achill Island, and Laura O’Hagan, Wicklow.
- You Tube: You Tube tutorials are great to learn – checkout tutorials by Lou Ann Weeks (I-C Mosaics), Helen Miles to name but a few
- Books: Theresa Mills, Sonia King, Emma Biggs, Tessa Hunkin – write great books on mosaics
- E-Tutorial: Several mosaic artists have written e tutorials which you buy and download. They can be very good.
- Websites: Some mosaic artists have free information on their websites.
- f you are reading this, then you have already found MAAI (Mosaic Artists Association of Ireland). Here you will be supported by other members, ask questions, attend meet up’s and expand your knowledge.
