Instructions for Tiling a Coffee Table

Add color and dimension to your living room by tiling the coffee table in a mosaic pattern. You can be sure that the finished product will be unique to you and your home, and although it may take a few hours or more to complete, it will be well worth it. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure the length and width of the coffee table top.

2

Cut the plywood to the width and length of the table top using the saw or another wood cutting machine.

3

Lay the plywood along the table top to make sure the two surfaces fit together completely. Apply the wood glue to the plywood and press it into place. You can place light weights on top of the wood to help it bond faster and more securely with the tabletop. Allow a few hours of drying time.

4

Lay out one towel, place the tiles inside, and lay another towel over it. Break the tiles into smaller pieces with the rubber mallet.

5

Place the tiles in the pattern of your choice, and stencil around them so you remember where you want them to go. Remove them from the surface.

6

Apply a thin layer of thinset along the entire surface with one of the paintbrushes. It will not dry instantly, so you have time to lay the tiles. You can apply thinset to a smaller section and complete it before moving on if you prefer.

7

Place the tiles on the thinset and press down. Repeat until the pattern is complete. Allow the tiles to set in place overnight.

8

Place grout over the entire surface, and use the grout float to gently push the grout in between the tiles. Wipe away excess grout from the top of the tiles with a damp cloth.

9

Wait several hours, and then apply a sealer with another dry, unused paintbrush along the entire surface, including the tiles. The sealer will prevent moisture and liquids from being absorbed into the tiles.