DIY Kit Tutorials
DIY Take & Make Mosaic Kit Tutorials
Welcome!
Thank you so much for your order! I am really excited to bring the joy of mosaic making directly to you at home. You are going to have a lot of fun creating (or gifting) a beginner level mosaic ~ which includes mostly everything you will need to complete your masterpiece using the direct method (simply meaning ~ directly gluing tiles to a surface to create a pretty picture!)
Your one-of-a-kind kit is unique. I spend a lot of time hand-selecting each tile for your mosaic. I also take great pride in the quality of the supplies I use. No piece is exactly the same. The way you space and place your tesserae will be completely original ~ and you will bring your own creative artistry to your piece. To me, it’s what makes creating mosaics so meaningful and fun. The personality that shines through is really special. I don’t send along photos of what the design is “supposed to look like” because I feel that is up to each individual mosaic artist! I do know that some artists crave more direction, I encourage you to read and watch all the tutorials here.
But if you need a little general design inspo, you can check out Mizz Mozaic on Facebook & Instagram
I care A LOT about the mosaic kits I send. I only send kits that I would want to receive, which means each kit is packed with a TON of TLC. If for ANY reason you are not happy with what you receive, I want you to give me the chance to make it right for you. I include a note in each kit that asks you to reach out to me directly if you have ANY issues whatsoever, but I want to reiterate it here again. If you are not happy or there is any issue within my control (or even if it is something you may think is a silly question!) ~ please don’t hesitate one second to contact me. Usually, I have a speedy solution to most questions that I can answer very quickly over messenger. I am also willing to hop on a video or phone call with you. I take all feedback very seriously. I want to make your experience as seamless and memorable as possible.
While I can work magic on most-things-mosaic, there are a few things that are not in my control, like delayed shipping. I always use 2-3 day USPS Priority shipping, but once it leaves me, it is out of my hands and in the hands of the USPS until you receive it. All the tracking information that you receive once your package ships is exactly what I have on my end. Additionally, I take many precautions in shipping your package. I securely and snugly pack the kits in a sturdy box, with bubble mailers and packing paper, sealing it closed with strong tape. This is in an effort to avoid any breakage on its journey to you.
Your Kit Includes The Following:
- A postcard with simple beginner instructions (check the side of the postcard on the back of the written message!)
- Substrate (surface)
- Tesserae (tiles)
- Adhesive (glue)
- Grout (cement)
- Starter supply kit: Paper towel & wooden mixing stick
- Surprises from the Mizz!
Before I close, I want you to know that I started my small business to provide in-person, social-art experiences and to make the ancient art of mosaic making accessible to everyone in a new and fresh way. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for supporting me and my dream.
Sending lots of creative energy your way,
Mizz Mozaic xoxo
P.S. Please remember to reach out to me for any creative questions, concerns or feedback, please email jenlene@mizzmozaic.com
How to Create Your Design
- Choose your substrate (surface).
- Draw a design or trace a pattern.
- Fill it in or create an abstract design.
- Glue tesserae (tiles) to substrate, (bumpy side down for some tiles), leaving 1/8″-1/4″ interstices (spaces) for grout.
- Let dry for 24 hours.
- Please Note: Some tiles may have remnants of adhesive on the back. This will give the tile extra “grab.” Glue this side down to the surface. Edges are sharp. Be careful!
How to Grout Your Piece
Tape edges of the piece if desired to keep edges clean from grout (cement). Pour baggie of grout into a disposable container. Use wooden craft sticks to slowly mix water into grout until it becomes a peanut butter-like consistency. Spread mixture over your piece, allowing the grout to fill in all gaps between the tiles. Wipe off excess grout. Let dry for 10-15 mins, then wipe off (buff) pieces with a dry paper towel.
Helpful Hints from The Mizz
Before you start, cover your work surface with a plastic table covering or craft paper. Use disposable gloves if desired. If you add too much water to the grout, let it sit until it thickens up. Dispose of all grouting materials in the trash, never in your sink. Choking hazard. Small parts.
DETAILED GROUTING INSTRUCTIONS
How to grout your mosaic project! (Now the fun REALLY begins!)
- After glue has dried for 24 hours, you are ready to begin grouting.
- Set aside enough time to grout (~ 30 minutes.) Once you start, you must finish.
- Be sure to wear disposable gloves (& a dust mask) if desired.
- Lay down a piece of newspaper, paper bag or other table covering to keep your area clean.
- Remove all contents from your mixing container. Pour baggie of dry grout into the container. Keep a small amount of dry grout to the side.
- Slowly add water to the grout & stir/mix until it becomes the thickness of peanut butter. Remember to very slowly add water (a tablespoon at a time.) If you add too much water, add more of the dry grout or let sit until it thickens.
- Work grout into spaces between the tiles with a glove covered hand or the wooden stick . Be careful of sharp edges (you can still get cut through the gloves.) Remember – you just want to cover the tiles – no need to build up a thick layer of grout. The idea is to fill all of the spaces you created.
- Remove excess grout with your hands, paper towel or enclosed sponge (the flat white circle in your kit becomes a sponge after it is placed under running water!) Grout should be level with the tiles & all voids & spaces should be filled. Wipe off all of the excess grout with your hand, sponge or paper towel.
- Allow grout to dry. A haze will appear on the tiles. Remove any excess grout & buff tiles clean with a paper towel, sponge or a soft cloth. Wait a few minutes. Again, let grouted tiles get hazy & continue to buff with a dry paper towel. Repeat as necessary until clean. The sand from the grout will “buff” the tiles & help them to become very shiny & sparkly.
- Allow the project to dry for an additional 24 hours to fully cure. A grout sealant may be applied if desired. Apply as directed but remove all sealant from the glass with a paper towel before sealant dries.