How to Decorate a Tabletop With Ceramic Mosaics

Choose the correct table for your project. Select a metal table if you want to put it outside. A sturdy sealed wooden table is a good option for a more formal indoor piece.

Trace the shape of the table top onto concrete backer board with a pencil. Score along the pencil line with a utility knife. Gently break off the excess backer board along the scores.

Attach the backer board to the tabletop with construction adhesive. Clamp the board to the table top and let the adhesive dry 3 to 4 hours.

Arrange your ceramic mosaics on the lined tabletop, placing them no closer than ¼ inch apart. Adjust the design until you are pleased with the appearance. Take a picture of the design so you can recall where each tile goes.

Remove the tiles from the backer board. Mentally break the table top into sections that you can cover with tiles in 10 to 15 minutes. Lightly moisten the first section of board with a dampened sponge.

Apply a scant layer of thinset mortar all over the first section with a straight-edged trowel. Arrange the tiles as desired, keeping the top edges as even as possible. Finish each section of the table top in this way.

Let the mortar dry overnight. Apply masonry sealer over the tiles with a paintbrush; ceramic tiles may be porous, and grout can stain them. Allow the sealer to dry three to four hours.

Spread grout over the tiled table top with a grout float. Press the grout well between the tiles and turn the float 45 degrees to scrape off excess grout with the edge. Wipe individual tiles clean with a dampened sponge.

Wait 24 hours for the grout to dry completely. Apply another coat of masonry sealer, including the grout lines. Let the sealer dry completely before using the table.