Mosaic Classes
Discover the Art of Mosaic with this Fun and Easy Class for Beginners!
Grouting Instructions
Supplies: Sanded grout, rubber gloves, paint stir stick, grout float, grout sponge, clean cloth, plastic bowl (Home Depot is a great place for these supplies)
1. Make sure the adhesive securing your mosaic pieces has dried completely. Grout outside or on a surface you do not mind getting dirty. This is a messy process! You can put down a small tarp or garbage bag to protect your surface if necessary.
2. Add tap water slowly to grout and stir (I like to use paint stir sticks) until consistency of thick batter (grout should not be runny, add just enough water to wet and mix all the grout in your container)
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3. Use of rubber or latex gloves during grouting process is recommended. Grout is basically cement, and will dry your skin out and get stuck under your fingernails. So put your gloves on!
4. Grout is applied by rubbing the grout into the gaps with your grout float, or your hands (be sure to use gloves, the grout will dry out your skin). Press the grout in thoroughly, and wipe away the excess. You may need to go over your piece a couple of times to make sure you have filled in all the gaps. Also, make sure your edges are neat. As the grout dries, it will become easier to form them/make them smooth.
5. Wet your grout sponge and wring it out. You don't want it dripping wet. Wipe away excess grout, being careful not to erode grout from the gaps. If you are pulling out too much grout when you wipe, you may need to let the grout dry in place for 10-15 minutes and then wipe again. You won't get the piece entirely clean at this point, but you should get it mostly clean.
6. Let the piece dry until it begins to form a grout haze. This is a hazy, dusty appearance from the remaining grout on the mosaic tile/glass. Get your clean cloth (often I use old washcloths) and wipe off the haze. If you have left too much grout, try starting over with the wet sponge stage, or there is a Grout Haze remover product you can buy at Home Depot to help you remove it. If you have left grout on the tile too long, sometimes it becomes too hard to remove, and the piece is ruined. So, be careful!
7. If you plan on using it outside, or in a place where it might get wet, you will need to seal the grout so that it doesn't dissolve. There are plenty of great sealers at Home Depot that you can use.
8. Your masterpiece is ready for you to enjoy!
