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How to make a mosaic side table

Mosaic side table with a pot plant on it, next to a couch in a room

Overview

If you’ve always been a fan of mosaic and wanted to give it a try, this is a great D.I.Y. project for you. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll share how to apply mosaic to a side table to create your own unique design.

Tip: We’ve chosen a round timber side table for this project, but you can apply mosaics to most surfaces, including metal, wood, terracotta and concrete.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Clean and prepare your table surface

Use a primer or sealant to protect the surface of your table from warping due to moisture in the adhesive. Apply this in a thin and even layer on your table's surface with a paint brush. Allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: If you’re using a recycled piece of furniture, you’ll need to remove any old paint, varnish or dirt prior to adding the protective layer. You can do this by using a paint stripper or sandpaper. For smooth metal objects, use sandpaper prior to the sealant to create a rough surface for the tiles to adhere to.
A Bunnings Team Member holding a paint brush against a top of a side table

2Create a design for the mosaic

Choose your mosaic design. It can be anything – geometric, floral, or abstract. Lay out your desired pattern on the table’s surface and take a reference picture with a camera. This reference guide will speed up the application and ensure your design stays the same as you glue it down.

A Bunnings Team member holding a top of a side table with mosaic pieces on it

3Apply the adhesive

Start gluing down your mosaic. Work in small sections, applying the adhesive onto your surface. Place the tiles down according to your design and allow the glue to dry.

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: If you’re cutting or breaking tiles for your mosaic, make sure to protect your hands and eyes by wearing gloves and safety glasses.
A person with a glove on placing pieces of mosaic onto a top of a side table

4Apply the grout

Before applying the grout, tape up the edges of your surface to avoid getting grout on any areas you don’t want.

Prepare the grout in a plastic container using a paint stirrer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You’re looking for the consistency of smooth toothpaste. Using a scraper, press and smooth the grout evenly into the gaps between the mosaic. Keep applying it until you have an even and smooth layer across the entire design. Allow it to set for a few minutes.

A Bunnings Team Member holding a scarper against a top of a side table

5Clean the mosaic surface

Using a damp sponge, gently clean off any excess grout until each tile is clean. You may need to repeat this step a few times until each tile is free from rough grout. Allow the grout to dry according to the time specified by the manufacturer.

Once everything is dry, remove the tape and or assemble your table, as needed.

A Bunnings Team Member holding a sponge against the top of a side table

6Looking for another creative project?

Check out our guide on how to make clay gifts, like bowls and candle and jewellery holders.

A Bunnings Team Member holding a mosaic side table
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.