Question 1

What age are these kits suitable for?

Accepted Answer

The kits are suitable for any age with some designs that allow more artistic freedom – the butterfly and dragonfly designs, the heart mirror for example – also very popular with adults.  But please take note of the health warning in every kit which clearly states that they should not be given to children under four as the small tiles may be a choking hazard.

Question 2

Which way up do the tiles go?

Accepted Answer

The tiles generally have two sides – a shiny or smooth side which we want to see, and a rough or ridged side that is pressed into the glue on your baseboard (see the picture).

Question 3

Where should I start gluing from?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, start from the top of the board and work downwards, that way your hand is not disturbing the tiles you have laid. Similarly if you are right handed start at the top left hand top corner, and if you are left handed, start at the top right. Again, this stops you disturbing the tiles you have laid as you complete the design.

Question 4

How much glue should I use?

Accepted Answer

Squeeze the glue straight from the bottle using the nozzle/applicator on to the base board, not the tile. Work a row at a time laying a bead a couple of millimeters wide between the grid lines. The glue should be sufficient to hold the tiles, but they should not be swimming in a big puddle of glue (see the picture). The glue dries transparent so it should not matter if you are a bit too generous with it.

Question 5

How can I line up the tiles so that the finished mosaic looks neat?

Accepted Answer

Always follow the grid and make sure the tiles line up with this and the edges of the base board. You can use a straight edge like a ruler or piece of cardboard to line up tiles as you finish each row.

Question 6

Is the glue washable?

Accepted Answer

The PVA glue is washable when it is still wet – wash from skin with soap and water or from clothes by rinsing with lots of cold water. If possible don’t allow glue to dry on clothing as it will be more difficult to shift.

Question 7

How long does the glue take to dry?

Accepted Answer

The glue will begin drying in about 20 minutes, but more quickly in warm conditions. You should leave the completed design to dry overnight to fully set before hanging or handling it.

Question 8

What if I don't finish the kit in one sitting?

Accepted Answer

If you run out of time, just tidy things up as far as you have got. Check everything is lined up with the grid on the baseboard and wipe, or scrape away any excess glue on the board. Put the remaining tiles back in their bag and close and wipe the applicator on the glue bottle. You can come back to the kit another time to complete it.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions