Things to Use as a Mosaic Base

Wood

• Thin wood boards are utilized as bases when designing pot holders or mosaic plaques. According to eBay, when using a mosaic board measuring about 9mm thick, it is not advisable to stick mosaics that are bigger than 30 to 40cm squared. Making larger mosaics requires a thicker wooden board measuring around 12mm and above. This provides support and strength for the heavy tesserae required to cover this larger area that might break a lesser board with time. Coat wooden surfaces using a waterproof sealer, as this prevents the wood from expanding and contacting due to moisture absorption, which can result in the cracking of the mosaic.

Glass

• Glass sheets, bottles and mirrors act as suitable surfaces for a mosaic base. However, special glass glue is used to stick the tesserae, since tile adhesive might not be strong enough and may have an unattractive color. If glass tiles are used on the glass mosaic base, clear, transparent glue maximizes the probability of light reflection. If heavy glue is used in creating a mosaic on a lampshade, light can be easily blocked, necessitating the use of transparent glue.

Metal

• Metallic garden tables, sculptures and frames are ideal bases for outdoor mosaic. Remove the rust and dirt from old metallic surfaces using steel wool, sand paper or a wire brush, for improved adhesion. Roughing up new metallic surfaces using a sand paper will make it easier for adhesion with tesserae.

Net

• This intermediary base is made of fine weave resin thread and can be cut into any shape or size. The mosaic is created on the net, which is trimmed into the desired size then embedded into cement and then glued on a permanent base.

Other Bases

• Objects made of terracotta or clay, such as vases and flower pots, come in different shapes and sizes and provide an ideal base for creating a mosaic. Plastic objects such as cups, jugs, trays and plates can be decorated by creating a mosaic. Scoring the nonporous surfaces using a knife ensures the mortar will stick.