How to Install Tile on a Table Top

Prepare to install tile on a table top by picking an existing sturdy table or buying or building a new one. Sand the surface as needed. Familiarize yourself with sizes, shapes and colors of ceramic tile as well and the patterns in which they might be arranged. Draw a tile design on graph paper to scale after measuring the table top with a tape measure.

Calculate the amount of tile and other supplies you'll need by multiplying the width times the depth of the table top for square footage, and adding at least 20 percent extra as a pad for errors. Pick out ceramic tile and supplies at a tile or home improvement store.

Lay out the ceramic tile without adhesive on the table top, starting from the middle and moving outward, looking at your tile design as you go. Leave approximately ¼ inch between the tiles for grout. Cut tiles to fit as necessary with tile nippers. Once you are satisfied with the layout, carefully remove the tiles and rearrange them in the same pattern on sheets of newsprint or cardboard on the floor.

Mix tile adhesive, also called "mortar" or "thinset," in a bucket with water according to package directions, then spread it onto the table top or onto the back of the ceramic tiles directly with a notched trowel to create ridges. Install ceramic tile onto the table top, once again working from the center outward according to the tile design, pressing the tiles into place securely. Allow the adhesive to dry for at least a day.

Apply wet grout to the table top after mixing the dry grout in a bucket with water according to directions. Spread the grout over the entire tiled table top, using a grout float, pressing grout into the gaps with your fingers. Let the grout dry partially for up to 20 minutes, then wipe the ceramic tile surface with a damp sponge. Allow the grout to set at least 48 hours.

Apply sealant to the ceramic tile table top. Once dry, place the newly tiled table in the space where it will be used and admired.