It is an alloy of siliceous sand and other components with additives of coloring oxides. As a result of remelting quartz sand, feldspar, soda with metal oxides at a temperature of 1400°C - 1600°C, a homogeneous mass is obtained, which is molded by injection molding at a temperature of 1000°C. The manufacturing technology of glass mosaic is such that it becomes much stronger than glass, although chemical composition absolutely the same. This happens for two reasons:

1. after pouring the glass melt into molds, it is subjected to high-temperature firing up to 800ºС,
2. The minimum module size is 2x2 cm.

To avoid cracks caused by thermal stresses, the molded mosaic is fired in so-called tunnel kilns, where it is cooled to room temperature, moving at a constant speed along the conveyor.

Glass mosaic has a wide range of applications: walls and floors in kitchens, swimming pools, bathrooms, as well as furniture surfaces, fireplaces, building facades. Wealth color palette is ample opportunities for creating decorative panels, patterns and ornaments.

Now glass is the most affordable facing material from all types of mosaics. Glass has the greatest number of advantages over other materials:

• high strength;
• chemical resistance - not susceptible to chemical reagents and many inorganic and organic acids, which are contained in most detergents;
• zero water absorption, so this mosaic can be used in rooms with any humidity and in swimming pool bowls;
• excellent heat resistance, resistance to temperature changes (from +15ºС to +145 ºС), which allows the use of mosaic for facing the fireplace from the outside (but not from the inside, where the temperature can be much higher);
• frost resistance (ability to withstand at least 100 cycles of transition from subzero temperatures(-30 ºС) to positive without loss of quality), therefore, the mosaic is suitable for lining open freezing pools, in which water is left for the winter, and external walls;
• resistance to ultraviolet radiation - the colors of the product do not fade under prolonged exposure to light.
• low slip level. This means that a person will be able to stay even on a wet inclined plane lined with mosaics.
• choice of 3000 colors and an unlimited number of their combinations.

Ceramic mosaic

Ceramic mosaic is made from pieces ceramic tiles different shades of a huge range of colors, which allows you to create almost any design. Ceramic material for mosaic tiles, they are made from a mixture containing kaolin or clay. Also, various additives are added to this mixture in the form of fireclay, quartz flour and flux, which accelerate the sintering of water-insoluble materials. Thus, ceramic mosaic is an environmentally friendly and safe material. The surface of the mosaic is covered with glaze, which can result in either a smooth (polished) surface or a matte (rough) surface, which can contain all sorts of “special effects” - craquelures (small cracks on the surface), stains, inclusions of a different color, imitation of an uneven surface.

The surface lined with ceramic mosaic will be more embossed than that finished with glass. Mosaic elements can have many shapes: square, rectangle, circle, pebble shape. Such a variety of forms allows designers to embody any, even the most unusual and daring idea in the interior.

Ceramic mosaic is stronger than glass, which is combined with resistance to abrasive wear and an original appearance. It is suitable for cladding various surfaces, including swimming pools, building facades, walls and floors of bathrooms, kitchens.

Ceramic mosaic has a number of advantages:

• This is a highly durable material. A properly laid mosaic panel can withstand a weight that will be 20 times greater than concrete or cement can withstand.
• High fire resistance and fire resistance. Ceramic mosaic does not burn and protects the lined surface from fire. In addition, when heated, it does not emit harmful substances. All this makes it a suitable material for lining stoves and fireplaces.
• Water resistance. This property of ceramic mosaic allows it to be used in rooms with high humidity or constant contact with water.
• Wear resistance. Therefore, ceramic mosaic is used for cladding floors and stairs.
• Ceramic mosaic does not fade in the sun.
• Resistance to aggressive environments and chemicals.
• It is known that microbes cannot survive on ceramic mosaics for long.

Ceramic mosaic goes well with many other decoration materials. Looks especially good with porcelain stoneware and ceramic tiles. A ceramic mosaic panel will give a magnificent look to any room.

Stone mosaic

Stone mosaics are made from a wide variety of stone types, ranging from onyx, jasper, tuff, amethyst, lapis lazuli to slate, travertine, serpentine, malachite, etc. The color of natural material is unique, the play of structures is unusual, so each mosaic image is unique. The stone can be left polished, polished, or it can be “aged” - then the color will be more muted and the edges smoother.

Elements are produced in a wide variety of shapes - from round to irregular. This is an almost ideal material for finishing the facades of houses, interiors of offices, shops, bars, restaurants. The natural origin of stone, durability, beauty, variety of forms - allow it to be extremely widely used in landscape design (paths, platforms, retaining walls, curbs, garden benches). Sea, river, lake pebbles, as well as various boulders are often used.

Natural stone is always exclusive, as it has the energy of nature. Natural stone used in the decoration of walls and floors, the manufacture of fireplaces, columns, countertops, frames for mirrors, vases, candlesticks, ornaments and sculptures, window sills, cornices, skirting boards, railings, coffee tables, bar counters. An excellent addition to the interior can be a picturesque mosaic made of natural stone, embodying story paintings, landscapes or still lifes.

Marble mosaic

Marble is a crystalline rock formed as a result of the recrystallization of limestone or dolomite. The color and pattern of marble depend on the combination of rocks and the direction of sawing the stone.

Marble mosaic can be used for interior decoration floors and walls in the room. It will help create a unique coziness with smooth tints of warm tones of polished stone and will highlight the refined taste of the owner better than any other interior details. Or it can be used to decorate external walls, creating unique façade structures that will help to brightly distinguish a home or office from a series of gray buildings. The use of marble mosaics always gives the interior a touch of stability, permanence, and solidity. The wide range of color shades of marble allows you to create a variety of compositions based on the selection of materials that are similar in color and tone.

Artificial stone mosaic

Artificial stone is a unique material based on acrylic resins, made from environmentally friendly materials. Its color imitates the original structure of natural minerals. Artificial stone is reliable material, which is protected from the effects of temperature changes, moisture and ultraviolet radiation. Mosaic made of acrylic stone is a rhythmic pattern that simultaneously resembles the surface of a stone box, a colored stained glass window, and a complex wicker pattern, as if woven from many shreds. During production in fake diamond Particles of natural minerals are added, due to which such materials have a truly unique structure that is original for each mosaic element. Products made from such acrylic stone, in the depths of which the sun plays, retain an excellent appearance for many years.

Metal mosaic

Metal mosaic can be steel or golden in color, depending on the metal used in production. The technology for making such mosaics differs from one manufacturer to another. Most often, not clay tiles are used as a substrate, but rubber plates up to 4 mm thick. A metal steel layer is attached to them on top. Thanks to the elastic rubber backing, metal mosaic elements are more flexible than those made of ceramics or glass, which significantly expands the range of applications of such mosaics for cladding surfaces of complex shapes. In addition to the standard square ones, elements of other shapes with different textured surfaces are offered. Oval, hexagonal, rectangular, diamond and square elements allow you to lay out an intricate rug on the wall or floor.

The surface is made polished, matte, with notches different types and finally covered with a thin layer of brass or bronze. To decorate bathrooms, showers and swimming pools, a special series of metal mosaics is produced, which uses stainless steel. To give the surface of metal mosaic elements different shades, bronze or brass is applied to it, however, such mosaic is not recommended to be placed on the floor, as it is highly susceptible to abrasion.

Mosaic made of precious metals

Gold mosaic is an indisputable sign of luxury. It consists of 585 gold foil, enclosed between thin plates of special glass. There are collections with yellow, white gold or platinum.

Production is completely manual. Gold mosaic is made by hand using ancient technology. Production begins with the traditional blowing of vessels from very thin transparent glass (0.2-1 mm thick). The large “bubble” thus obtained is called soffione. This glass is cut into squares approximately 10x10 cm in size. Such golden mosaic plates are called “cartelline”. A thin plate of gold mosaic “cartelline” is laid a metal sheet in yellow or white gold. A sheet is a thin foil obtained by beating metal by hand. A hot mass of thicker glass is poured onto a thin plate with foil. Thus, both glass layers are tightly connected and form a golden “pancake”. After this, the gold “pancakes” are sent to a kiln for hardening.

A thin piece of glass can be colored, a thick plate of gold mosaic can be green, blue or transparent (crystal base). Cutting gold mosaic into cubes is done by hand. Obviously, the price of such material is considerable. Therefore, most often gold mosaic is used individually, making inserts. Gold mosaic tiles can be used for both walls and floors.

For thousands of years, mosaics have been used in external finishings premises. The beginning of its development can be traced from simple primitive patterns using pebbles to patterns that are used for zoning space. Gradually, this technology developed and became popular. Mosaic tiles began to be used as decorative surfaces floors and walls in villas and cathedrals, to the contemporary expression of mosaic as an art form.

In general, mosaic tile can be described as the art of decorating a surface with designs that are created from small pieces. solid material or tessera, close to each other.

We have an article about with gifs and interesting videos, you can read it in order to navigate the issue well.

An ancient art form of mosaic tiles.

Scientists have proven that mosaics appeared in the fourth millennium BC. It was first used in the temple of Uruk in Mesopotamia. There are also more ancient examples of its appearance. It is found in pre-Columbian cultures - household items were decorated with shells, mother of pearl and semi-precious stones. Quite a long time ago, mosaics were discovered in Greece - at the beginning of the fourth century BC. In the ancient capital of Pella. This was the time of the conquest of Greece by the Romans in the second century BC. This ultimately raised the level of artistic processing.

Christian art promoted the development of decorative mosaics in churches and other religious buildings, but the Byzantines made mosaic art the privileged language through which divine, supernatural, and mystical themes could be expressed. Usage artificial materials, including gold, and the use of a special technique for installing tesserae at different angles and depths created magical light effects.

St. Mark's Basilica, Venice's Cathedral, are the most famous churches in the city, and some of the most famous examples of Byzantine architecture and mosaics, rich in design and demonstrating the power of Venice.

Consecrated in 1094, the walls and ceilings were covered with mosaic art in a mixture of Byzantine and Gothic styles. Since the 11th century, the building has been known by the nickname Chiesa d'Oro, translated as "golden church" due to its intricate golden mosaic domes. Unfortunately, Byzantine art began to develop less actively, just like the golden age of mosaics.

Developing an artistic concept for mosaic tiles is by no means a mechanical process. One of the most widely used techniques is to photocopy the intended artwork and then draw a network of tiles over the photocopy. This translation process is the first step in transforming ideas into mosaic art.

Binders, inert fillers and backings form the basis for wear-resistant and weather-resistant mosaic tiles, and are a beautiful piece of art.

To make a mosaic, you will need cement, tile adhesive, gypsum plaster or clay. The tiles are placed in a binder to hold them in place. Laying tiles can be done by leaving a small space between the slabs in which the mortar is placed, and the tiles must be laid very tightly. Either way, you should place a tile that can be used to create a meaningful pattern that reflects the original art design.

Each method has its own technology and result.

The basic equipment for working with mosaic tiles is simple and mainly consists of tools that can be used to cut mosaic tesserae, including a hammer. Trowels and spatulas are also used to spread mortar and adhesives.

Mosaic materials are either natural or artificial. Natural materials include marble, sea pebbles, shells, crystals, semi-precious stones and minerals. Natural materials, despite their aesthetic value, have a dull color compared to lighter tinted artificial colored glass.

Mosaic tiles are unique mixtures of materials at the right temperature that produce thousands of different colors. Each of the flowers has a unique recipe. These recipes are what make the bars so unique and special. After creating molten glass, they are pressed into flat plates, which are eventually cut into small square pieces. The slabs can be carved by the artist to create unique patterns and shapes.

Not every professional mason can do the highest quality work; you should definitely learn how to do this!

The use of tiles in contemporary art.

Unfortunately, many people think of mosaic art as ancient history. But today it is often used in modern spaces. Indeed, mosaic can represent both contemporary and historical art. Overall, mosaic tiles are artistic, functional and beautiful material. It can and should be regularly considered in interior design to add practical features to wet areas and high traffic areas.
Here are the main processes that are carried out using mosaic tiles, as well as terms:

Annealing- a slow cooling process that is carried out at a temperature of about 500 degrees Celsius in a special oven. The new molded glass is cooled to prevent stress.

cutting- The process by which tesserae are removed from glass slabs. Hammers and chisels have been used for these purposes since ancient times, but nowadays automatic and semi-automatic machines can be used.

CrucibleA pot, or as it is also called, is a container in which frit and cullet (broken glass) are placed, which are subsequently mixed with dyes, after which they are heated to the point of melting, or making glass. Typically, they are made from silica and fire clay, however, other fire-resistant materials can be used for their production.

Glass paste- used for the manufacture of tesserae with traditional, almost lead-free glass (less than five percent lead oxide);

Melting furnaceconsists of a bench, a shelf for pots, a fireplace or a cell for storing firewood. The combustion air enters through a specific opening used to load the wood. Exhaust gases are discharged through a central hole in the bench, allowing the pots to be heated.

golden leafrepresents thin sheet made from gold. Generally, color shade determined by the purity of the metal, the thickness of the sheet and the color, if any, of the cartel and the substrate.

Sandis the most common form of silica used to make glass. Sand is usually not pure silica, as it contains other minerals in varying amounts, depending on the location of the sand deposit.

Plate- a thin mosaic strip or disk (pizza) is obtained by pressing molten glass onto flat surface or pulling through two cylinders. After annealing, the tesserae are produced by cutting with diamond tools or hammering with hard steel points or blades.

I hope you learned something new about the process production of mosaic tiles, I wish you successful repairs!

If you decide to lay the tiles yourself, ours will help you. If you have any questions about their use, please ask our manager.

* The calculations use average data for Russia

2,500,000 ₽

Minimum starting capital

70%

Profitability

From 12 months

Payback

From 2,000,000 ₽

Cost of mosaic equipment

A mosaic is an image or pattern made from particles of homogeneous or different shades different materials(stone, smalt, ceramic tiles). The material, usually square in shape, from which this image is laid out is also called mosaic. The smaller the detail, the clearer and more realistic an image can be created from it.

Where is mosaic used?

It is used for interior and exterior finishing works, for decorating walls and floors, as well as for landscape design. A large variety of materials are used to produce mosaics. Each type of raw material from which mosaics are made today has its own characteristic features, making it suitable for use in some conditions and not suitable for use in others.

In most cases, inexpensive mosaics are made from ceramic. Ceramic mosaic resembles in appearance and in its properties ordinary ceramic tiles. The only difference is in size. In the process of making ceramic tiles, low-porosity ceramics are necessarily used. This material is characterized by high frost resistance and low water absorption.

A special glaze can also be used, which is needed to prevent the formation of water-based stone on the surface of the mosaic, and also to preserve the color of the product even under the influence of an aggressive environment and water. In the process of producing mosaics, a wide variety of natural stone can also be used, starting with ordinary natural stone tuff and ending with rare breeds of jasper and marble.

Features of manufacturing different types of mosaics

Natural stone has no restrictions on texture - during the production process it is polished, ground or aged. In the latter case, the edges of the tiles have a smoother texture and muted colors. Inexpensive mosaics are made from artificial granite. This material, on the one hand, is of natural origin, and on the other hand, it is produced using modern technologies, during which granite is mixed with broken glass. This mosaic is distinguished by its high strength (like natural granite) and unusual effects (like artificial materials).

A significant part of expensive mosaics is made from smalt. This material has been known since antiquity, but, of course, modern technology for the production of such mosaics has undergone significant changes these days. The glass used in production passes special treatment various metal oxides and then heated to high temperatures. As a result of such procedures, glass acquires various physical and Chemical properties– impact resistance, resistance to low temperatures, resistance to various aggressive environments. Smalt, like natural stone, does not have a uniform color.

Even in one batch, mosaic pieces may have different shades, which creates unusual effects on a large surface. An alternative to expensive smalt is special glass, which has properties such as water resistance, impact resistance, wear resistance, and can withstand temperature changes. An additional advantage of glass, unlike, for example, ceramics, is that its structure is solid, so it is not susceptible to the influence of various harmful bacteria and microorganisms. The technology for producing mosaics directly depends on the raw materials from which it is made.

For example, the process for producing ceramic mosaics is similar to the method by which ordinary ceramic tiles are made. Simplified, it can be represented as follows: at the first stage, a mixture of clay, quartz sand, kaolin, feldspar and various pigments is laid out in molds, then pressed, and then covered with glaze and fired.

To produce mosaics with a natural shade, dry, non-chamotte mixtures are used. In the production of colored mosaics, i.e. with the addition of dye, slip mixtures are used. This production process is fully automated. Porcelain stoneware mosaic tiles are made differently, more in a simple way. In this case, the finished sheet of porcelain stoneware is simply cut into small pieces using a waterjet tool. Glass mosaic is made from durable sheet glass. First, such glass is painted with special paints that can withstand high temperatures. Then it is transferred to cutting, where it is cut into the required formats. At the next stage, these small fragments are collected on special substrates.

Earn up to
200 000 rub. per month while having fun!

Trend 2020. Intellectual business in the field of entertainment. Minimum investment. No additional deductions or payments. Turnkey training.

Finally, the semi-finished products are loaded into the kiln for the most critical stage of the production process, which is firing. In the oven, the mosaic pieces undergo heat treatment at a temperature of 900ºC. During this firing process, the paint is baked into the glass, its surface is hardened, and the corners melt and become smooth.

Regardless of the material from which the carpet mosaic is made, one of the final processes of its production is usually the same and involves gluing the finished pieces of the future mosaic onto the base. This process is also automated. First, a template is fed onto the conveyor - a special aluminum cassette, the size of the slots corresponds to the dimensions of the workpieces, and the depth is slightly less, which makes it possible to easily remove the finished mosaic from the cells in the future. These nests are separated by special partitions, in place of which tile seams are then formed.

Mosaic tiles must be laid in a cassette so that its front side always faces up. Then the aluminum cassette enters the tunnel with powerful gas burners, where it is heated to the required temperature. At the penultimate stage, a special paper base soaked in an adhesive solution is applied to the finished mosaic, which is called a matrix or carpet (hence the name - carpet mosaic).

In most cases, matrices have standard sizes– 424x672 mm. The width of the tile joints is 4 mm. And as a basis for the matrix, one of the varieties of Kraft-type wrapping paper is used. Mosaic with paper backing is sent to drying chamber, and upon exiting it, the carpet with mosaics is removed from the conveyor belt and transferred to a forklift. The sheets are then formed into piles and sent for sorting, packaging and shipping or storage in a warehouse.

Cost of organizing mosaic production

The cost depends on the material used and the technology of its production. Even mosaics can be made from the same raw materials different ways. For example, glass mosaic can be produced by stamping from quartz glass using various plasticizers or by casting. The industrial line for the production of glass mosaics includes a tunnel firing kiln (24 m), a printing line for coloring glass (in turn, it includes printing machines with dryers), metal drying racks, machines for breaking glass, compresses, a prepress complex, dead-end oven for small-volume orders. You will also need spare parts for equipment, tools needed to work with glass, and raw materials.

The latter includes high-strength sheet glass or broken glass, high-quality glazes and paints (inorganic pigments), waterproof mounting mesh, waterproof glue. Russian market presented quite wide choose equipment for the production of glass mosaic tiles. Its cost ranges from 2 million rubles (used low-power equipment) to 15-17 million rubles. This is exactly how much an Italian line with a capacity of 8,000 to 12,000 sq.m. costs. meters of mosaic per month (volumes depend on the size of the tiles produced) with installation, formulation and training of personnel to work with it.

Ready ideas for your business

Using such equipment, it is possible to produce glass mosaic tiles in five sizes: 10x10 mm, 15x15 mm, 20x20 mm, 25x25 mm and 36x36 mm. It is recommended to use window glass cullet as the main raw material, as well as dyes (European or Chinese production).

According to the suppliers of such equipment, the products made with its help are not inferior in quality to the mosaics of Spanish and Italian companies (although, of course, the quality largely depends not only on the equipment, but also on technology, specialists and raw materials). The profitability of this type of business is stated by them as 70% at wholesale sales and up to 250% - for retail sales. With such data, the payback period is no more than a year. In practice, the profitability of a glass mosaic production enterprise turns out to be somewhat lower and rarely exceeds 50% (although this figure can be considered high).

1432 people are studying this business today.

In 30 days, this business was viewed 57,906 times.

Calculator for calculating the profitability of this business

You can make mosaic tiles yourself at home, for this you will need easily accessible and inexpensive materials, which can be purchased at hardware stores, and molds, which you can also make yourself. From the manufactured mosaic tiles you can make countertops, mosaic panels, etc., which will give the interior a completely unusual look.

Mosaic tiles

Decorative mosaic tiles are an excellent option for finishing bathrooms, kitchens, swimming pools, saunas, as well as for exterior and interior decoration of residential and public buildings, a wide variety of interiors. Strength, durability, environmental resistance and Amazing beauty, color saturation – these are the qualities that make mosaics forever young and popular. Today, mosaic is the most modern and stylish finishing material, used in decoration.

Mosaic panels

It seemed that mosaic compositions were forever a thing of the past. But this lasted only until the 18th century, when the Russian scientist Lomonosov reinvented the technique of making colored glass. And immediately in Russia a great many wall panels were created using the technique of Roman or Byzantine mosaic. Further more. In the Urals, as stone mining expands, Russian mosaics appear. The ideas of Florentine mosaics were further developed in it. Now not only marble and jasper are used, but also semi-precious gems - malachite, lapis lazuli, etc. In addition to smooth walls and vaults, mosaics began to be used to lay out all kinds of architectural details (columns, pilasters) and decorative objects with complex shapes and shaped surfaces (vases, bowls, boxes). To create more expressive works, Russian mosaics used not just the color of the stone, but also its natural pattern.

It is not known who first thought of creating mosaic panels, but such panels can also be found in the ruins of Egypt, Ancient Greece and Rome. Creating a mosaic picture required painstaking self made. That is why mosaic panels laid out from small pieces were considered the privilege of very rich people and royalty. With the help of mosaic panels you can give the interior a completely unusual look. Panels in Greek and Roman styles are in great demand. Absolutely any idea can be embodied in a panel: from paintings by great painters to photographs of your beloved dog. The selected drawing is digitized, and then using special programs they create a diagram of the future panel, select the size of the mosaic elements and their color scheme. By using relatively large pieces when laying, you can create the effect of large, confident brush strokes. Such panels are ideal for a living room, decorating walls or floors in a swimming pool, or for giving an exclusive look to the facade of a building.

To convey fine details and smooth color transitions, very small pieces are used, with which you can achieve the effect of integrity mosaic panel. Made by a master, it will be difficult to distinguish it from a real painting. Such a mosaic can become the highlight of any interior; it does not require a long distance in order to fully appreciate its beauty.

A mosaic panel can be made either as a central element of the design of a room, placing it on the entire wall, ceiling or floor, or to focus attention on other decorative elements. In addition to their excellent decorative qualities, such artistic panels made using modern materials, form a surface with excellent performance characteristics. Mosaic paintings can be safely placed in bathrooms and shower rooms, baths, and swimming pools.

Just look at these amazing mosaic panels! A large number of paintings, most of them are based on nature motifs... these amazing mosaic tiles can surprise anyone who enters the bathroom for the first time. Some of the designs are three-dimensional, which creates even more strong feeling external presence transferred into the house. To convey subtle details and smooth color transitions, very small pieces are used, with which you can achieve the effect of the integrity of the mosaic panel.

Features of the mosaic set

Modern mosaics are assembled where they are made. For precise designs, the chips are cast into small molds or chipped by hand. Finished products arrive in stores and showrooms in the form of so-called matrices (modules). They are pieces of paper or mesh on which chips are glued in a strictly defined order. Matrices are often made square (30x30 cm), less often - rectangular, with side sizes that are multiples of 30. Sometimes matrices of other shapes are found.

At the installation site, all that remains is to connect the fragments and attach them to the desired surface using special (not tile!) glue. It is important to keep in mind that the paper is glued to the front side of the chips, and the mesh is glued to the back. After installation, the mesh remains under the chips forever, and the paper is moistened and removed. It will take a specialist from 2 days to 2 weeks to lay the mosaic (depending on the size and other features of the surface).

It is important to realize that the skills of a master tiler are of little use for laying mosaics. She is very capricious and does not forgive even minor mistakes. Preparation is essential solid foundation with a smooth, even surface. Cement-sand plasters can only be used with adhesive and reinforcing additives, for example Collaseal or Fiberflex (INDEX, Italy). Then the layer that disappears during leveling (up to 0.5 mm) will not chip off, and subsequently cracks will not appear in the plaster. The base should be carefully marked, taking into account the position of the typesetting elements on curved surfaces and at junctions. The goal is to reduce the number of chips being pinned (cut). Of course, you need to make sure that the matrices are glued to the base with the right side. At the same time, modules on paper are more suitable for convex surfaces, and modules on a grid are more suitable for concave surfaces. The adhesive is required to ensure adhesion of at least 3 MPa and have a viability of at least 30 minutes for laying simple panels and more than 60 minutes for complex ones. It must be closed in an amount sufficient for one hour of the master’s work. The area to be smeared should be no more than 1 m2 (for 9 mosaic matrices), if the pattern is simple and the surface is flat. In difficult cases, glue is usually applied under 2-4 matrices.

Finally, if the mosaic is being used in a damp area, do not forget to reliable waterproofing grounds. For swimming pools and bathrooms there is whole line system materials (from SCHOMBURG, INDEX, VANDEX, etc.). Otherwise, after 3-5 years the mosaic will begin to fall off along with pieces of the base.

Technique for setting mosaic panels

This is the most ancient look mosaic technique. It was characteristic of Roman and Byzantine mosaics. It is the most complex and time-consuming to perform.

There are two types of installation - direct and reverse dialing. In the first case, the image is laid out directly on the surface and fixed in the plaster layer. The second one began to be used after the 18th century. It is simpler in execution. The image is laid out on tracing paper front side down. After fixing the composition on the back side, its front part is finally processed and sometimes sanded. The result is not just a mosaic effect in the usual sense, but an illusion of muted shine and texture not even of stone, but of a tapestry or carpet. Exist different technologies creating mosaic panels - from the simplest, geometric, to the very complex, computer-based, allowing you to recreate a reproduction of any painting.

Geometric technology It is considered relatively easy: when creating a pattern, the mosaic does not need to be cut into smaller pieces. Compositions are obtained by simple selection of colors. Then the master manually lays out the desired pattern on the matrix grid. Therefore, when ordering such a composition, the client can draw the grid himself, indicating the colors of the picture.

Technique for working with mosaics using the reverse method

The mosaic is glued to a paper base with a water-soluble wheat flour paste, the slow hardening of which allows the mosaic artist to make substitutions or adjustments. The drawing or sketch is applied to the appropriately cut paper with the reverse side.

But more complex work are performed on a computer. The desired photograph or painting is scanned and then the program breaks the image into cells. Then a color scheme with different shades is selected, depending on the complexity of the pattern. Although there are some subtleties here - you need to take into account from what distance the panel will be viewed. How larger sizes of the future “drawing” and the larger its constituent elements, the greater the distance to it should be.

Can be used the following programs Mosaic 2005, Mosaic Deluxe, and Photoshop.

Technology for making mosaic tiles at home

To make mosaic tiles you will need the following tools and equipment:

1. Forms
2. Gloves
3. Container for mixing components
4. Fill tool
5. Matrix
6. Reinforcing mesh
7. Filler

This technology uses readily available and inexpensive materials that can be purchased at hardware stores.

The process of making mosaic tiles consists of seven main stages:

Stage 1. Preparing molds for pouring

Stage 2. Preparing filler for pouring

Stage 3. Preparation of the working mixture

Stage 4. Filling forms

Stage 5. Extracting fills from shapes

Stage 6. Workpiece processing

Stage 7. Matrix set

We offer mosaic manufacturing technology and the main material for the manufacture of mosaic tiles (mosaics) and casting stone - acrylic resin.

The acrylic resin (plastic) we offer has high biological indifference to biological objects, in other words, it is absolutely harmless to humans! Does not contain styrene! This plastic is also successfully used for medical purposes.

“Composed of pieces” is what mosaic has been called since its invention. The variety of materials used for manufacturing, their durability, ease of maintenance, and the possibility of restoration ensure the high demand for this cladding technique. The production of mosaic tiles is no less popular.

Modern technologies and materials make it possible to push the boundaries of the use of mosaics from creating traditional panels to cladding pools, fountains, columns, arched structures and other surfaces of complex geometric shapes. Ceramic mosaic traditionally holds the lead, however, glass, metal, decorative and finishing stones are gradually gaining popularity, occupying their niche in the market.

Types of mosaics

Making mosaic tiles involves using various materials. So the consumer gets the opportunity to choose between types, each of which has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

Ceramic

• Satisfies the most demanding aesthetic taste.
• Medium strength.
• Well-established production technology.
• High price.

Glass

• High aesthetics.
• Wide range of colors.
• Resistance to high and low temperatures.
• Use in aquatic environments.
• Insufficient strength.
• Heavy weight.

Plastic or plastic

• Attractive appearance.
• Light weight.
• Low cost.
• Easy production.

The service life of ceramic and glass mosaics is practically unlimited, which is confirmed by the excellent condition of archaeological finds: dishes, tiles, mosaic paintings.

As for plastic. The amount of plastic waste in the modern world makes environmentalists sound the alarm and come out in support of everyone possible ways their disposal and processing. Of course, not everyone can build a processing plant plastic bottles, but mastering and starting the production of mosaic tiles at home from plastic is a completely feasible dream.

Mosaic tile production

When choosing suitable material for the manufacture of mosaic tiles you can choose glass or acrylic resins. Buying components for production today is not difficult - stores offer a good range of chemicals and fillers.

Manufacturing or purchasing equipment does not require knowledge high technology and high financial costs. The process itself requires compliance with manufacturing technology, is characterized by low energy costs, and in terms of the complexity of development it is quite accessible to any competent person.

Raw materials

The choice of ingredients for the manufacture of mosaic tiles - binders, fillers, dyes - is dictated by the requirements for the strength and density of the final product. The standard bonding material is acrylic plastic. It is a liquid acrylic resin that hardens when a special catalyst is added.

The liquid consistency of the resin allows the use of various fillers:

• sandy;
• marble chips;
• granite chips;
• colored gravel of small fractions.

Both organic and inorganic dyes are used to color the mixture. The color of the finished tile is determined by the choice of the appropriate pigment base. The most common: iron oxide, chromium compounds, lead, zinc, titanium.

Equipment

The manufacturing technology of mosaic tiles is so simple that it does not require a huge room, sophisticated equipment and an oven for baking tiles. The sizes and shapes for the production of mosaic tiles by pouring are selected according to the size requirements of the tiles.

The process of dosing components requires special attention. Required precision scales and graduated containers that will allow you to accurately measure the weight and volume of ingredients.

Containers for storing raw materials are selected based on their shelf life and planned production volumes. Tools for preparing the mixture, pouring and molding it (spoons, a set of spatulas, tubes, etc.) use glass or plastic.

Manufacturing process

The use of such simple tools for the manufacture of acrylic plastic mosaics speaks of the simplicity of the production process itself.

The most difficult stage is preparing the mixture. Dosing accuracy of each component is important to obtain a high quality product. The required amount of filler is placed in the mixing container, the measured weight of the dye is added and filled with acrylic resin. After mixing, the finished mixture is distributed into molds. Hardening and drying of the tiles occurs naturally without exposure to high temperatures. After removal from the molds, the finished product must be finishing to give it the perfect shape and appearance.

If other source materials are used, modification may be required. technological process. The described technology is intended for the production of small volumes. With their growth, additional equipment for the production of mosaic tiles will be required, which will allow introducing elements of mechanization and automation into the production process.

Features of the mosaic set

Unlike ancient times, when each piece of the mosaic was laid out by hand, modern manufacturers in the factory assemble matrices ready for laying from pieces. Each matrix is ​​a piece of mosaic glued to a sheet of special paper (kraft paper) or mesh, arranged in a certain order. Matrices (modules) designed to create complex drawings or paintings are available in small sizes, which simplifies the process of fitting when laying. The usual module size is 30x30 cm.

Finished modules are attached to the prepared surface using a special adhesive for mosaics. Such glue provides adhesion strength of mosaic tiles to the surface of at least 30 MPa.

It should be remembered that the grid is always located on the installation side, and the front side of the matrix is ​​​​usually covered with a layer of paper, which is soaked with water after installation and removed. Although modular system significantly simplifies installation, on average, depending on the size of the mosaic, the work takes from several days to several weeks.

Unlike laying ordinary ceramic tiles, working with mosaics requires special skills and careful surface preparation from the master. The base for the mosaic must be strong and level, with smooth surface. When installing on plastered surfaces, special impregnations are used that increase adhesion, and when plastering, reinforcing additives are used to increase the strength of the mosaic and further prevent the formation of cracks.

If the mosaic is placed in rooms with high humidity or in direct contact with water, preliminary waterproofing of the surface is required. There is a fairly large selection of professional materials for waterproofing pools, fountains, showers and bathrooms.

Preliminary marking of the base plays an important role in preparation for laying the modules, especially on curved surfaces. Taking into account the complexity of the mosaic coating process and its duration, it is necessary to choose adhesive mixtures with a long (at least 30-60 minutes) shelf life after preparation. The volume of the mixture for one-time preparation is selected by the master based on work experience, taking into account the complexity of the surface.

Mosaic panel set technique

The technique of creating artistic mosaic paintings (panels) has been known since antiquity. IN modern design she came with minor adjustments and improvements. In the old days, craftsmen selected the sizes and colors of mosaic pieces directly at the place where the panel was created and immediately laid the selected piece in a layer of plaster on the base. This work required high skill and artistic talent, since it is very difficult to imagine the whole picture and correctly select each piece, and any mistake would cause the picture to be distorted.

• Today, two main methods of creating mosaic canvases are used: the technique of direct and reverse set. When using the first method (direct set), the composition or its fragments are assembled on a base (glass fiber or other materials are used), laying out the pieces of the mosaic face up, which makes it easy to control the results and make adjustments. Upon completion of the assembly, the finished fragments, together with the base, are attached to the surface intended for installing the panel.
• The second method (reverse set) involves laying the mosaic pieces face down. To do this, use a mirror image of the picture, covered with tracing paper, on which, in accordance with the coloring, a mosaic is laid out. On sale self-adhesive film this technology is even more simplified. After completion of the assembly, pouring and fixing on the base is carried out. If necessary, carry out additional processing and grinding.
• One of the most simple technologies considered to be geometric. Using a simple selection of colors, the master, or the customer himself, creates a grid pattern - indicating the colors, in accordance with which the tile is laid out on the grid matrix, and then fixed to the surface.

Creating more complex mosaic patterns using photographs and paintings requires the use of specialized computer programs (Mosaic 2005, Mosaic Deluxe) or an image editor Photoshop. They process the images, calculate the number and sizes of tiles taking into account the actual dimensions, which is especially important for the correct visual perception of the finished panel, and select the color scheme.

Technology for making mosaic tiles at home

What you will need during the manufacturing process:

• A set of containers for storing ingredients.
• Containers of different volumes for making the mixture.
• Devices and tools for pouring mixture into molds.
• Molds for making tiles of different sizes.
• Mesh for reinforcement.
• Matrices for installing tiles.
• Acrylic plastic and catalyst.
• Various fillers.

It is necessary to remember about protection skin hands and perform all work wearing protective gloves. When making mosaic tiles, you must follow the following sequence of actions:

1. Weighing and dosing components for preparing the mixture.
2. Preparing molds for making tiles for pouring the mixture.
3. Mixing components.
4. Pouring the finished working mixture into molds.
5. Removing finished tiles from the mold.
6. Final processing and polishing of tiles.
7. Forming a pattern from tiles and laying them out on matrices.

Acrylic plastic is the main component for production. Provides high environmental cleanliness finished products, UV resistance, has antibacterial properties and is completely harmless to living organisms. The acrylic resin and hardener catalyst contain no styrene.

It is also possible to make mosaics from tiles. It is enough to purchase or collect a collection of tiles of different colors, bring them to the required sizes and stack them in the required sequence.

Why choose small tiles for renovation?

The choice of mosaic tiles for interior decoration is largely determined by knowledge and understanding of the distinctive features and advantages of using this type of cladding. Let's consider some positive aspects of using mosaic coverings in order to make an informed and correct choice.

• Tile sizes. The small size provides ample opportunities for forming complex patterns and applying them even to curved areas of the surface, and also simplifies the procedure for replacing individual pieces if damaged.
• Variety of colors and shades. The technological technique or techniques used to produce mosaics make it possible to obtain a wide range of colors, which distinguishes them from ordinary ceramic tiles. Picturesque drawings with subtle shade transitions bring a pleasant revival to the interior and are the envy of guests.
• Target use. A wide variety of materials for mosaic coverings - glass, metal, ceramics, smalt, plastic - makes it possible to make a choice taking into account all the features and characteristics of the intended place of use of the mosaic. Good strength and wear resistance make it advisable to use it for flooring, and zero water absorption by glass mosaic allows the material to be used in rooms with high humidity and in direct contact with water.
• Installation and operation. Increased requirements for cleanliness and quality of surface preparation make it possible to lay tiles on a thin layer of adhesive and use it sparingly, which, given the high cost of the latter, allows for significant savings. Using mosaics in the form of ready-made modules (matrices) facilitates the installation process, and using the above tips and recommendations will make it more effective.