DIY Network

Tesserae Hurricane Lamp From "DIY Crafts" episode DIC-245

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Tesserae is the term used to describe the glass tiles or fragments used in mosaic (a single tile is called a tessera). Colored tesserae will cast an inviting glow on a patio, deck or balcony table. Figure A Figure B Figure C

Author and designer Kurt Cyr applies tesserae -- or cast glass tiles -- to glass vases. The results are illuminating!

Materials:

Clear glass cylinder or rectangular vase, with smooth surface
Clear silicone adhesive
Cast glass tiles (enough to cover vases)
Premixed grout
Votive candles

1. Begin by thoroughly washing and drying vases. If glass tiles have come attached to a sheet, separate them from their backing so that you have individual tiles (figure A).

2. Measure the height of the vase and the size of the tesserae. Divide the vase height by the height of the tesserae to find the number of tiles to be used. The remaining space will be divided evenly for grout. (For example: If the vase is 6-5/8" high and the tessera is 1" x 1", that means 6 tiles will be used, spaced evenly with grout lines of 1/8" each. This is because the bottom row and the top row don't require grout lines -- they line up with the top and bottom of the glass vase). Measure and calculate the number of tiles for the circumference, or for each side of a cylindrical vase.

3. After measuring, begin securing tiles. Start at the bottom (figure B), using clear silicone to stick the tesserae to the glass surface. Evenly space the horizontal rows (which will determine placement of the vertical lines of tile). For best results, complete one side and allow to dry before beginning other side.

4. Allow silicone adhesive to dry.

5. Begin applying liberal amounts of premixed grout with finger (figure C). Work the grout into all the crevices, then wipe with a damp sponge to smooth surface and remove excess. (This step may need to be done twice -- allow first layer to dry before applying the second).

RESOURCES :
Making Mosaics: Designs, Techniques & Projects
Model: 0806948728
Author: Leslie Dierks
(February, 1998)

Sterling Publishing Co. Inc.
Website: www.sterlingpub.com

Classic Mosaic: Designs & Projects Inspired by 6,000 Years of Mosaic Art
Model: 1570761590
Author: Elaine M. Goodwin
(February, 2000)

Trafalgar Square Publishing Co.
Website: www.trafalgarsquarebooks.com

Mosaics in an Afternoon
Model: 0806958030
Author: Connie Sheerin and Mickey Baskett
(August, 2000)

Sterling Publishing Co. Inc.
Website: www.sterlingpub.com

Decorating Glass and Ceramics: How to Embellish Glass, Ceramic,Tile with Paint
Model: 0754808521
Author: Mary Fellows

GUESTS :

Kurt Cyr
Author/Interior Design & Decoration
Cyr is the author of Centerpieces Through the Year. See Resources for information on the book.
Phone: 818-881-0006
Website: www.kurtcyr.com