DIY Terrazzo Benchtop
A behind the scenes Smudge build for the grown ups.
The Set Up
This is not a children’s art experience, but I’m including it because it ties in so beautifully with mosaics and it’s something I get asked about constantly. It is a little behind the scenes Smudge build moment from 2023!
I went around to tile shops and collected samples in colours and textures I loved. If you ever do this yourself, try to find tiles that are a similar thickness. I didn't, and it made the finishing stage much harder!
Measure the surface you are covering and cut a timber base to size. Gather tile glue, grout, a bucket, water, mixing utensil, and a grout float. You’ll also want rubber gloves.
For smashing tiles, a rubber mallet is brilliant. Wrap tiles in a tea towel first and please wear safety goggles.
The Making
Lay out your tile pieces before gluing. Decide whether you want lots of grout showing (more terrazzo style), or tighter tiles with minimal grout lines (more mosaic style). I like starting by forming a border around the edge so the whole surface feels contained, then filling in from there.
Glue the tiles down, let them set, then grout the entire surface. Once cured, clean, sand back if needed, and seal properly so it is durable and wipeable.
Variations
Do a small version first on a tray or a plant stand to test your process.
Materials
• Timber base cut to size
• Tile samples or tiles (similar thickness helps)
• Tile adhesive
• Grout, bucket, water, mixing tool
• Grout float
• Rubber mallet, tea towel, safety goggles
• Sealer for finishing
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DIY Terrazzo Benchtop
A behind the scenes Smudge build for the grown ups.
Bookmark
Sculpture
The Set Up
This is not a children’s art experience, but I’m including it because it ties in so beautifully with mosaics and it’s something I get asked about constantly. It is a little behind the scenes Smudge build moment from 2023!
I went around to tile shops and collected samples in colours and textures I loved. If you ever do this yourself, try to find tiles that are a similar thickness. I didn't, and it made the finishing stage much harder!
Measure the surface you are covering and cut a timber base to size. Gather tile glue, grout, a bucket, water, mixing utensil, and a grout float. You’ll also want rubber gloves.
For smashing tiles, a rubber mallet is brilliant. Wrap tiles in a tea towel first and please wear safety goggles.
The Making
Lay out your tile pieces before gluing. Decide whether you want lots of grout showing (more terrazzo style), or tighter tiles with minimal grout lines (more mosaic style). I like starting by forming a border around the edge so the whole surface feels contained, then filling in from there.
Glue the tiles down, let them set, then grout the entire surface. Once cured, clean, sand back if needed, and seal properly so it is durable and wipeable.
Variations
Do a small version first on a tray or a plant stand to test your process.
Materials
• Timber base cut to size
• Tile samples or tiles (similar thickness helps)
• Tile adhesive
• Grout, bucket, water, mixing tool
• Grout float
• Rubber mallet, tea towel, safety goggles
• Sealer for finishing
Back to Top
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Thoughts?
Would love to hear if youv'e tried this or have any ideas on how to make it even better!
