| Adhesives: |
| There are a range of adhesives suitable
for different types of mosaics. Make sure you select the right adhesive
for the job. |
| Cement-based Adhesive: |
Thin-set is a mortar (cement) based adhesive that you
can mix with water OR an acrylic additive to make it waterproof. This is great
if you want to make stepping stones, mosaic onto birdbaths, terracotta or backer
boards. It won’t stick onto metal or non-porous surfaces without keying it first.
If you want to work in the direct method and want the tiles flush even though they
are of different heights, this is the adhesive to use. It is waterproof and you
can get white or grey cement adhesive. Treat it like grout and DON’T empty it
into your sink. Allow it to dry and empty it into the dustbin. If you mix it with
an acrylic bonding additive, it will increase the strength and flexibility. |
| Epoxy: |
This is an extremely strong adhesive that produces a lot of
fumes. It is great for outdoor applications where it will be constantly wet
(e.g. birdbath). |
| EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate): |
It is the water-resistant version of PVA adhesive. You can
use it outside where it will get wet but it’s not waterproof so don’t try use it
for an area that will be submerged in water. |
| Mastic: |
Tile mastic is available in most hardware stores. The adhesive
is either a latex or petrochemical base and will come in a pre-mixed form. It isn’t
as strong as the cement based adhesives. |
| PVA – Polyvinyl Acetate: |
PVA (white glue like Elmer's and other craft glues – I call it
wood glue). This is great for unfinished wood and porous surfaces like terracotta.
It dries clear but is not waterproof. It’s also great for use in surface preparation.
|
| WeldBond: |
Most mosaicists recommend WeldBond. It’s similar
to PVA glues,
is waterproof and dries clear (which is great if you want to mosaic onto glass.)
If you would like to purchase it online go to:
www.weldbond.com. |
| Liquid Nails: |
: I have never used this adhesive, but the other good mosaic
sites recommend it for small outdoor projects. You must use gloves as this has a
corrosive element. The company also produces great sealants.
www.liquidnails.com |
| Clear Silicone: |
Ideal for projects such as glass on glass – where you want the
light to show through. The silicone dries clear and is waterproof. |
