How to Do Stone Mosaics

Draw a simple design on a piece of paper that is the same size as your solid surface. Alternatively, print a simple drawing off a computer or copy a coloring book page. You don't even need a drawing if your stones are basically one shade and you are interested in creating a textured surface only.

Tape the transfer paper to the surface with cellophane tape with the side that smudges facing down. Then tape the drawing on top of the tracing paper. The tape holds the papers in place while you trace the design onto the surface. Transfer the design to the solid surface by tracing it with a pencil.

Remove the tracing paper and the drawing.

Lay the stones down onto the surface to see which ones fit well in the spaces. This process gives you an idea of how you'd like to lay your mosaic pieces. If you are not using a drawing, go to the next step.

Apply a strong, water-based adhesive to one side of a stone -- preferably the side that is flattest. Press it into place on the appropriate spot on the drawing or a random spot if you are not using a design. Place each stone so that there is a gap of 1/8 inch or less in between them. This space allows for the grout you will add later.

Glue all of the stones into place and allow the adhesive time to dry thoroughly before continuing with the project. Read the label on the adhesive to estimate the amount of drying time necessary.

Pick a tile grout that is a contrasting color to your stones so that they will show up well. For instance, if your stones are white or beige, you might want to use a medium brown or gray grout.

Wear disposable plastic gloves to mix and apply the grout. Mix the grout according to the package directions.

Scoop out a small handful of grout and place it on the stone-covered surface.

Press the grout in between the stones with your fingers in an even layer. Use a grout trowel if you have a large surface to cover. Don't worry about the grout on top of the stones; you will wipe it away once the grouting process is over. Add more grout as necessary until all the spaces between the stones are filled.

Wet a large sponge and wring it out so it doesn't drip.

Wipe the sponge over the stone mosaic to clean the top surface of the stones. Use light pressure; you do not want to remove the grout from in between the stones. This step is only necessary to clean the stone surfaces.

Rinse the sponge well and wring it out. Continue wiping the stone mosaic until the stones are free of any grout.

Read the directions on the tile grout regarding drying time. Do not use the stone mosaic until the grout is completely dry.