How do I make Wood Base/Support Structures for Mosaics?

Most mosaic projects are often fabricated on a wood base/support structure to create eclectic wall hangings, cabinet panels, mirrors, furniture, and more.

You will need the following materials:

• 1 copy of pattern
• 3/4 in exterior grade plywood
• Wood trim moulding (at least 1/4 in wide)
• Carpenter’s wood glue
• Finishing nails
• Wood filler
• Sandpaper
• Wood Stain or paint
• Felt or cork pads

Tools:

• Apron
• Safety Glasses
• Marking pen or pencil
• Drawing or carpenter’s square
• Wood saw (hand or power)
• Hammer or air nailer
• Applicator brush for wood stain or paint
• Soft cloths for buffing

Instructions:

1. Measure the width and height of your project.
2.  Trace the outline of the base onto the plywood sheet with a marking pen or pencil. Use a square and straightedge when drawing the dimensions of square or rectangular base/support structures to ensure that corners are the correct angle.
3. Cut the base piece away from the sheet of plywood, using a wood saw.
4.  For straight-sided projects required a raised edge, cut a length of wood trim moulding for each of the sides of the base piece. Each end must be mitered at the appropriate angle to give the corners of the base a finished appearance (miter each end of the moulding for square and rectangular projects at a 45 degree angle).
5. Apply a bead of carpenter’s wood glue to an outside edge of base piece and place a length of moulding overtop. Fasten moulding to base pieces with a hammer and finishing nails. Repeat this step with remaining lengths of trim, making sure mitered ends of each length are butted up against adjacent pieces. Wood trim should be slightly wider than base piece so a raised edge is present around the perimeter of the base piece. The raised edge will contain mosaic tesserae so they do not protrude over the edge and will give the base a finished and professional appearance.
6. Fill nail holes and gaps with wood filler and smooth with sandpaper.
7. The base/support structure can be painted or stained before or after the mosaic has been adhered to the base and the project has been grouted. Choose a stain or paint complementary to the grout colour and the mosaic materials. Do not paint or stain any surface that will be covered with mosaic tesserae.
8. Apply felt or cork pads to back of base piece to prevent marring of wall or furniture surfaces.

We hope this has helped you create your own wood base/support structure for you mosaic! Contact us if you have any questions!