Here to help you
Whether you are a resident in Tenerife or a tourist coming to visit, whether you are interested in finding out about "Mosaics designed for you" or wishing to buy a product, I hope the answers to these Frequently Asked Questions might help you. Click on the questions regarding "Mosaic Workshops", "Mosaic Products" and "Mosaic Commissions" to find the answers to your questions.
If you have any more questions, please don´t hesitate to contact me.
Questions regarding
Mosaic Workshops




I haven´t made a mosaic before so I´m a complete beginner. Can I attend one of your workshops?
Yes, absolutely! There are a range of mosaic workshops on offer at "Mosaics designed for you". Whether you are a complete beginner or have made a mosaic before, there is something for everyone. I am on hand to provide step-by-step guidance whatever your level. Take a look at the workshops on offer and choose a workshop that you would like to try. Some people prefer to start with Workshop B as their first workshop where you mosaic a coaster. This workshop is a perfect introduction as you learn about mosaic materials as well as concentrating on design as you complete the gluing and grouting techniques. Then you could choose to return to join another workshop where you will learn cutting techniques as you use wheeled tile nippers. However, all workshops can be accessed by everyone and can be completed in any order. If you are unsure, please contact me to discuss your workshop requirements.
Do I need to bring any resources with me to the workshops?
All materials and tools are provided. If you have your own tools that you prefer to work with, then of course you can bring them along with you.
Where is your workshop?
“Mosaics designed for you” is based in Costa Adeje, Tenerife. Please look on the contact page for the exact location.
Can I work on an extended project over a period of weeks?
As well as the one-off shorter workshops available at “Mosaics designed for you”, there is also a Mosaic Club. These sessions, held on specified Tuesday afternoons, allow you to work on extended projects. You have time for planning, cutting, gluing or cementing and then grouting your finished mosaics during these sessions over several weeks. I plan and prepare a series of projects for you to complete during each Mosaic Club session so don´t worry if you are new to the craft, everything will be provided. However, there is still the opportunity during these sessions to use your own creative, inspirational ideas. Please make contact to confirm details.
I am looking for something to do with my friends whilst on holiday. Would we be able to attend a one-off workshop?
Yes, you would be more than welcome to attend. You can choose from the mosaic workshops that are on offer and reserve your place in the shop. Please contact me to make alternative arrangements.
Are your mosaic workshops the same?
Each mosaic workshop offers you the opportunity to create a different mosaic. I run scheduled dates for specific workshops each month so you need to check the dates listed in the shop. However, there is the possibility to choose from Mosaic Workshop A through to Mosaic Workshop K and if a particular workshop is not listed in the month´s scheduled dates, then please make contact to organise a private session on another date and time. Each workshop allows you to learn about the craft of mosaic making, the materials and tools you can use and the techniques involved. Even though you might be using the same materials, each session is fun and your confidence will grow and your ability improve. In fact, some clients have had so much fun that they have returned to do the same workshop twice before moving onto another workshop. Other clients have moved through several workshops to get a broad experience of the different cutting skills to create different mosaics.
We are a large family on holiday in Tenerife with children of different ages. Are your workshops suitable for families?
Yes, all workshops are open to family groups. You can book a private workshop just for your family if you wish. The workshops are suitable for children and adults. It is advisable that younger children are supervised by an adult if you choose a workshop where cutting glass tiles is involved. However, there are workshops available where you use the pre cut tiles and these are safe for children. You can choose to work in pairs so that an adult and child work together on a mosaic if you have younger children.
I would love to join a cultural experience whilst on holiday in Tenerife. Do you teach about the history of mosaics?
If you are interested in a cultural experience then these mosaic workshops are perfect for you. When you make your booking, please state that you would like to learn a little about the history of mosaics as part of your experience. I will show you a range of materials used in traditional and modern mosaics, show you photos of mosaics through time and tell you a little about the history of mosaics. This introduction leads on perfectly to the practical section of the workshops and you will certainly not be able to walk past a mosaic in the future without stopping to admire it after all that you have learnt!
Is it better to attend one of your workshops or can I just buy one of your kits to start making a mosaic?
Of course, if you are able to attend one of the mosaic workshops then I would love to meet you and share my passion with you. You will have the chance to be inspired by the beautiful mosaics displayed in the workshop and soak up the creative atmosphere. You will be sure to love the whole experience, being introduced to the materials, tools and techniques involved in the craft as well as the support from myself as you venture into this wonderful new craft. I will give you step-by-step guidance throughout each process and you may have the opportunity to meet other like-minded crafters if you attend here and enjoy the process together.
However, you might not be able to attend the workshops in Tenerife, so of course you can purchase a kit and begin your mosaic journey from where you are. Each kit has been carefully prepared so that you will still be able to start making your mosaic whatever your level or experience. In fact, no previous experience is necessary to access my kits. With this in mind, each kit contains a suggested step-by-step method to follow and a helpful tips for grouting sheet. These will guide you through each process. I recommend purchasing the Starter Kit which contains all the tools that you will need for future mosaic making. Above all, I wish you every success and joy as you start your mosaic journey.
Do you use the direct or indirect method at workshops?
We use the direct method at mosaic workshops, gluing the tesserae directly onto the substrate.
Questions regarding
Mosaic Products


I don´t live in Tenerife. Can I still access your mosaic workshop products?
All Mosaic Workshops A to K are available as kits. They are available to purchase from the shop. The kits include the materials you need to complete the mosaics. However, you will need to supplement each kit with specialist glue and tile nippers if you do not already have these. You can also purchase a Starter kit from the shop which includes all the necessary tools you need to make a mosaic; therefore, you might like to buy the Starter kit along with another kit so that you have all the tools you require. Included in all the Workshop kits are helpful tips for the grouting process and also suggested methods which you might like to follow to make your creations. You can purchase the mosaic workshop products and use the tiles to create a mosaic design of your choice so that you can add your own imaginative ideas to a piece to treasure.
I would like to make a mosaic at home but I don´t know what tools are best to use. Can you advise me please?
If you are able to attend a mosaic workshop at “Mosaics designed for you”, you will learn about the tools that are used in mosaic making. The skills and knowledge gained during the session will teach you the fundamentals so that you will be able to have confidence to make further mosaics at home. However, if you are not able to attend a workshop with me, a wonderful alternative would be to buy one of my kits from the shop. The Starter kit contains all the tools that you would need to make a mosaic at home. Once you have these tools you can purchase further kits based on the designs made in Mosaic Workshops A to K. Included in all the Workshop kits are helpful tips for the grouting process and also suggested methods which you might like to follow to make your creations. I wish you lots of enjoyment as you make your mosaic!
I am starting the craft of mosaics for the first time and I find that it is a little daunting to find a pattern. What would you suggest?
First of all, I am thrilled that you have found this beautiful craft. Once most people begin, they get hooked and continue making many more mosaics. There can be several factors which you might consider when thinking about a pattern for your mosaic. Sometimes you have a specific area in which to place your mosaic and therefore your design pattern and colours will be influenced by the surroundings. However, if you are just starting out and wanting to get confident with the basic techniques, I would advise you start with a regular pattern of mosaic tiles or draw a simple design and cut the tiles to fill the space. Another suggestion would be to purchase one of my Kits and you can work on a design that has been prepared for you. The more time you spend making a mosaic, the more confident you will become. Some people prefer to draw the pattern and design first as a guide. Others prefer to cut the tiles and see a pattern or picture evolve as they place them down. Enjoy the process and all the best with your designs. I would love to see your creations so please tag me in your creations @mosaics_designed_for_you
What safety precautions do I need to take when completing one of your kits at home?
I advise that you wear safety goggles to protect your eyes when cutting the tesserae. Please remember that the edges of the glass will be sharp once cut. Keep out of reach of small children. Supervise children when completing kits and projects. Wear a dust mask when handling and mixing the grout with water. It is advisable to do this in an aerated space and avoid breathing in the dust when mixing the grout. You might like to wear grouting gloves or plastic gloves when you grout your mosaic to protect your hands and avoid skin irritation and the drying out of your skin. Never dispose of the grout down the sink.
How will I know how to complete the kit projects?
Within the kit there is a suggested method provided. These steps can be followed if you wish to produce the design which I have made. However, the design can be adapted if you wish to create a pattern of your own choice. There is also a Helpful Tips for Grouting sheet included so that you will know how to complete this process as well.
I haven´t used wheeled tile nippers before. Can you give me any advice?
Hold the wheeled tile nippers in your dominant hand that you write with or hold scissors in. Then hold the tile or tesserae of your choice in the other hand. Hold the tile nippers as far down the handle as possible to get maximum pressure and make sure the wheels are facing towards the tile. If your wheeled tile nippers have a guide, loosen it with an allen key and move it out of the way. Try a few test cuts keeping the tile flat and straight. Try to cut a 2cm tile in half. You can try cutting smaller pieces or making diagonal cuts. If you are working from one of my kits, follow the design suggested for cutting as you build up your mosaic pattern.
How do I dispose of grout waste?
If you have mixed the grout in a disposable bowl, you can throw this away when finished. Never dispose of the grout water down the sink. Grout is concrete and therefore it could block your plumbing. One suggested method is to pour the waste in an old pot and allow it to harden. After several days, you can pour off the water and simply throw the pot away.
Do I mix all grouts in the same way?
There are a variety of grouts that can be purchased. Therefore, you should mix the grout according to the instructions on the packaging.
Can your printed products be personalised?
Printed products can be personalised to add that special touch. Whether you would like a name or a message, a business name or logo, “Mosaics designed for you” aims to create a product just for you. Please contact me to discuss a bespoke printed product.
Questions regarding
Mosaic Commissions


I have a mosaic which is in need of repair. Are you able to help?
I have completed mosaic repairs for customers. It is best if you book a time to come and meet me to discuss your specific renovation.
Are you able to produce a mosaic design based on a photo that I provide?
I create original designs and also work from pictures and photos that clients provide. After an initial consultation where we discuss your specific ideas, a mosaic design based on the photo is then produced. Another consultation is arranged to confirm the design before the mosaic is created.
I have been searching for a house number plaque and I can´t find exactly what I am looking for. Are you able to make a bespoke design for me?
This is a wonderful part of my job and one of the reasons why I love my job so much as I am able to provide the solution! I aim to fulfil your dream of having the exact mosaic that you are looking for. We will arrange a meeting to discuss your exact ideas and requirements so that the exact mosaic house number plaque that you are looking for will be completed to perfection for you.
Are you able to make a mosaic for businesses with a business logo?
Absolutely. “Mosaics designed for you” can offer you the bespoke design that you are looking for. I can create a mosaic based on your business logo. We can arrange a time to meet and discuss your ideas and any specific requirements and I will give suggestions about design elements to allow for ideas that you have not considered. Designs can be minimalist or elaborate depending on your logo and the style you are looking for. Once the mosaic design has been created, further products can be made for you and your business. The mosaic design can be printed on products that you might like to use in your business, in an office, in hotels as well as for customers. A range of products are available.
I have a large white blank wall in my garden. Could you design a mosaic for this space?
“Mosaics designed for you” specialises in creating stunning mosaics which bring colour and design to spaces. Ranging from small to large mosaics, beautiful designs are captured perfectly bringing artistic flair and modern clean style into the once blank space. Mosaics are created with a specific objective in mind. Therefore, the planning stage is just as important as the execution of the mosaic. You will be delighted with a one-of-a-kind, stunning artistic piece that will be treasured for years to come.