How to Build a Vanity Top Using Mosaic Tiles

Score the surface of the vanity in both directions with a utility knife. This will create an uneven surface that is easier for tiles to adhere to. Apply a coat of watered down white glue to the scored vanity surface with a paintbrush to seal it from moisture.

Prepare your mosaic tiles. The easiest way to get an assortment of shapes with your tiles is to select several standard bathroom tiles, wrap them in a rag and hit them with a hammer. Your goal is to break the tiles up into smaller shapes that you can make a mosaic design with. Use the hammer on the tiles just enough to get them to your desired size. Don’t overdo it or you’ll end up with pieces that are too small to work with.

Arrange your mosaic tiles on a flat surface next to the vanity top. Measure the design and make sure you have laid the tiles out in a pattern that will fit the table. Adjust as much as needed to get the perfect pattern for your table top. Leave about 1/8-inch between the tiles on all sides for grout.

Coat the surface of the vanity top with about 1/8-inch of thin-set mortar. Score the mortar with a trowel in both directions.

Place the mosaic tiles on the vanity in the same arrangement you set up in Step 3. Start at the middle of the design and gradually work your way outward. Remember to leave small, even spaces between the tiles for grout.

Make a frame for the top of the vanity to provide a border for your mosaic design. Affix hardwood trim to each side of the vanity top with carpenter’s glue. The trim should extend above the edge of the table just enough to lay flat with the height of the tiles you have chosen. Wait for the carpenter’s glue to dry and the mortar to set before proceeding to the next step.

Mix your grout according to the package directions. Apply the grout to the vanity top with a grout float. Pass the float over the surface of the vanity several times to work the grout down into the spaces between the tiles.

Wipe off excess grout with a damp sponge. Rinse the sponge frequently so you’re removing the excess grout rather than simply spreading it around. After the grout dries, clean the surface of the vanity with a stiff toothbrush to remove any residual grout or dirt on the tiles.