How to Make Mosaic Garden Stepping Stones

Plain concrete stepping stones make solid bases for mosaics. Broken china, bits of glass, stones, crystals, marbles ... let your imagination determine what material you use. A splash of color and a playful mix of patterns energize your garden. Here's how to get started.

Step 1: Gather Materials

You will need:

* Ceramic tile or plates
* Safety glasses
* Heavy rubber gloves
* Plain precast concrete garden stepping stones
* Thin-set mortar
* Large buckets
* 3/16-inch notched tile trowel
* Poly-blend sanded tile grout
* Large rubber spatula or tile trowel
* Sponge

Step 2: Break Up Tiles

To break up the ceramic plates or tiles, first cover with a cloth to prevent shards from scattering. While wearing safety glasses and rubber gloves, use a hammer or tile pincers to break the ceramic tiles or plates into large pieces. Handle them with care because the edges are very sharp.

Step 3: Prepare Stepping Stone and Mortar

Immerse a concrete stepping stone in water to wet thoroughly; remove from water. Prepare thin-set mortar in a bucket according to package directions. The consistency should be similar to slightly runny peanut butter. Using a notched trowel, spread a ¼- to ½-inch layer of mortar onto part of the wet stone.

Step 4: Arrange Pieces

Arrange pieces as desired, pressing them lightly into mortar. Add extra mortar as needed under pieces for an even surface. Repeat to cover stone, leaving gaps between pieces for grout. Clean excess mortar from the surface and let dry overnight.

Step 5: Spread Grout Over Stone

Mix grout according to package directions. Scoop a large amount onto stone. Spread with a trowel or spatula, filling gaps and removing excess as you go. We also spread grout down the sides of the stone.

Step 6: Clean Excess Grout and Dry

Using a wet sponge, clean excess grout from the sides and top of stone. Wipe in all directions and rinse sponge often. Repeat, taking care not to remove too much grout from gaps. Let stone dry 24 to 48 hours, then buff with a soft cloth. Place in garden!

More Mosaic Garden Projects

Use the same technique for other mosaic garden projects, such as terra-cotta pots, bird baths or even garden benches.