Choosing the appropriate substrate for your mosaic is essential. Mosaics can be applied to almost anything that doesn't move! (and no ladies, this does not mean your husband!) Artists and hobbyists have covered everything from wine bottles to store mannequins, buildings, bathtubs, and more. You can let your imagination run wild, but there are a few basics you need to consider. Choosing the right substrate (surface or base) to apply your mosaic to is an important first step in creating a successful project that will last a lifetime.
When choosing a substrate, the main characteristic you're looking for is solid without flex. Although many adhesives work with flexible materials, in the end, the surface will not be able to support the weight of adhesive, tesserae, and grout. If the surface has too much flex, the grout will crack, and the tiles will pop off. Surfaces must be stable, solid, free of loose paint, wallpaper, dirt, grease, etc., and must be strong enough to support the mosaic. It may be necessary to scuff the surface of some materials by scoring or rough sanding it first so your adhesive will stick to it.
Another important consideration is where will the completed piece be displayed or used when finished. Inside? Outside? If so, do you live in a climate with freeze/thaw cycles or high humidity? Will it come in contact with water? All these things can affect the surface and may, in turn, have a negative impact on your finished project. The success of any project starts with a good foundation.
