A stone and tile table top can add an artistic element to any room. The finished table top can be set into a wrought iron table frame or affixed to decorative wooden table legs for a custom table at a much lower price than those available at furniture stores. The materials necessary for this project are available at most home improvement stores and discount or broken tiles can used to create a colorful mosaic design.
Instructions
1. Cut the plywood to the desired size of the finished table top. Some home improvement stores will cut plywood to size for you when you purchase it. Attach cement backer board with screws to cover the top of the plywood.
2. Mix thinset mortar with water, according to the package instructions. Spread the mortar onto the cement backer board with a notched trowel.
3. Press the tiles or stone into the table top to create an attractive pattern. Press down on each tile firmly to set it into the thinset mortar. If desired, finish the edges of the table top by spreading more thinset mortar along the edges of the table and pressing tiles or stones into this mortar to create a border. Allow the mortar to set for 24 hours before grouting.
4. Mix grout, according to package instructions, and spread the grout over the table top with a rubber float. Move the grout around until all the spaces between the tiles have been filled in with grout. Use a damp sponge to wipe the surface of the tiles gently to remove excess grouts. Allow the grout to dry and cure for one to two weeks.
5. Apply grout sealer to a rag and rub the sealer onto the grout. This will prevent the grout from becoming discolored or stained due to spills.
Tags: thinset mortar, according package, according package instructions, backer board, backer board with
