How to Tile 1 Inch Tile on a Fireplace

Measure the fireplace surround in three sections: each "leg" of the surround from the hearth to the top of the firebox, and the area above the firebox from the top of each leg to the mantel, and across the top. Mark off an area of equal size on the floor nearby on which to lay out the mosaics.

Place the mosaic sheets in the area designated to determine how many sheets will be needed, where the sheets will require trimming and how far apart the sheets should be. Trim the netting or paper holding the rows of 1-inch tile together with a razor blade to fit. Cut individual tiles to fit with tile nippers, if cutting a row does not get you close enough. Continue laying out the sheets until you are satisfied with the layout and pattern.

Spread a small amount of mortar across the section of the fireplace surround directly above the firebox. Comb the mortar with the trowel until it is even in thickness; flatten out the comb marks with the flat edge of the trowel until the mortar is smooth.

Carefully press each sheet of mosaic into the mortar. Press the bottom of each sheet first, and smooth upward with the flat of your hand, pressing the mosaics into place on the fireplace surround. Continue smoothing mortar and pressing the mosaics into place in the pattern you designated, until the surround is covered. Allow the mortar to dry for 24 to 48 hours.

Grout the entire surround at once by spreading the grout over the 1-inch tiles with the flat edge of a grout float. Press firmly on the float, while directing the grout to fill the many grout joints that are integral with tiles this size. Wait 10 minutes for the grout to begin to dry, and wipe the excess off the mosaics with a damp sponge. The grout will dry completely within three weeks.