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Frequently Asked Questions

 

• I have never done anything creative before - how will I know what to make?

I have lots of inspirational books and photo albums of previous students work to give you ideas.
The important thing is to make something you really will like owning so it is perfectly OK to copy something someone else has done and maybe give it your own touches. This also speeds up the initial decision process of what to make and what colours to use.

• What do you cover in the course?

I cover the different techniques of mosaicing, direct and indirect and suggest ways you can introduce texture and movement into your mosaics. We learn how to cut the mosaic tiles effectively and correct gluing. Normally for beginners I suggest starting with a simple project like a mirror surround or a plate mat but if you want to be more ambitious that's fine.

• Are the cost of materials included in the course fee?

Materials are not included in the cost of the course and are charged at an average rate of £12 per square foot of finished mosaic. As a rough guide a plate stand of 8" x 8" would cost approx £5 or £6.

• Will I learn enough on the one day course to be able to practice at home?

Yes after the course you should be confident enough to work on projects at home and have learnt the skills to try other materials like broken crockery, stained glass, pebbles etc.

• What materials will I work with on the course?

I keep a large variety of vitreous and ceramic conventional mosaic tiles. These are the easiest materials for beginners to use and are very suitable to learn all the basic skills. You will mosaic onto wood and I have sheets of wood which I will cut into the exact size and shape you want.

• Do I need to bring any tools or materials with me

All the tools you need are here together with glues, grouts and protective clothing. The only thing you need to bring is a packed lunch. We stop for ½ hour lunch break and try to make the most of the day

• Will I complete a piece of mosaic on the course to take home

In general it is possible to complete a piece of work about 8" x8" in the time but of course it depends how quickly you work and also how quickly you get mosaicing, When the mosaic is finished time must be allowed for the glues to cure before you can grout the work, generally overnight. If you cannot come back to a day class to do this I can give you some grout and instructions to take home and finish the work

• Can I pay for my course or my materials by credit card?

I can only accept cash or cheques at the moment.