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Fri, Aug 15, 2014

How to Make Glass on Glass Mosaics

This 'How to Mosaic' looks that glass on glass mosaics, the types of materials you can use and what adhesive works best. There isn't a lot of information readily available on the internet, so while I'm not an expert in 'glass on glass' mosaics (and don't profuse to be) I will share my experiences with you.

Materials

Transparent materials look great when the light is transmitted through them. Transparent glass gems, glass tiles, Millefiori, Glass Pebbles are some options.

Glass on glass mosaics
 

Surfaces

Only limited by your imagination but can include vases, bottles and jars. I've used a glass brick which I picked up at Bunning's for about $10, which could look great as a feature in your home. If you are using a glass vase etc you need to take into consideration that you may see the back of your mosaic through the opposing sides.

Adhesives

Clear drying glue such as Weldbond. Make sure the glue will adhere to glass.
Weldbond Glue - When bonding glass tiles to a glass surface, use Weldbond sparingly if you require a crystal-clear bond. Any whiteness indicates the curing process is not complete.
Clear Silicone - Use plenty of clear silicone, pressing down to ensure there are no air bubbles. Note: I found that my silcione dried with clear adhesive lines, not a crystal clear finish.

Preparation

The glass must be completely clean prior to applying any adhesives. Rub the surface down with methylated spirits prior to applying glue.

Tips

  • Any whiteness in the adhesive indicates that the curing process is not complete. Do not start grouting until the adhesive is completely clear.
  • If you are intending on grouting you need to make sure that there are no gaps where glue can seep under the tesserae. 
  • It is a balancing act between getting a crystal clear finish and making sure you have enough adhesive applied so that the grout does not seep underneath.
  • I found that it is much easier to achieve a good result with smaller tesserae (e.g. gems, pebbles, tiles) than larger tesserae like the irregular glass gems, simply because of the surface area that's being adhered to the glass.
  • A good result takes time; don't rush the laying of the tesserae.

    glass on glass mosaics

    This is an example of the adhesive under the green gem glass gem not being cured, Weldbond glue appears white until fully cured.

     

    glass on glass mosaics

    This is an example for grout under the tesserae, the yellow gem appears brown in spots.


    glass on glass mosaics

    The smaller tesserae worked well in the mosaic.

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