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Have you ever had one of those moments where a great idea hit at a really odd time? I had that happen recently when I cut a tree in our yard. After taking it down to about three-feet tall, it dawned on me that this would be a fabulous place for a birdbath. In a short period of time, I found myself with a delightful yard decoration. Want to add a decorative birdbath to your home? Here's how I made mine.
I purchased a plain birdbath top for about $12.00 from my local hardware store and began the short seven-step process.
1. Using mortar, I attached the birdbath to the top of the tree stump. (Here's a tip: I found out later it would have been much easier to work with the birdbath separately by placing it on a table at the right height.)
2. I created a mosaic design by drawing the pattern on a sheet of paper first. Once I had a design to work with I then drew it onto the birdbath using a pencil. Don't worry if it doesn't look perfect. This outline is just a general guideline to be used for the tile layout.
3. I then set just a few pieces of tile, measuring between them to ensure a uniform pattern. This is to be certain the pattern is correctly balanced and spaced on the surface.
4. I cut a few leaf shapes out of stained glass and chose several colors from the beautiful Giorbello tile collection offered by WholesalersUSA.com. I also chose a couple of accent gems in different shapes and colors.
5. I then adhered all tiles in place and let the adhesive dry overnight.
6. The following day, I applied the grout giving the birdbath a finished look.
7. I then added a coat of grout sealer, covering the birdbath twice including the bottom. It’s important to use a grout sealer since the piece will be outside and will be holding water.
This is a very easy project! It’s great for both beginners and advanced mosaic artists. The nice thing is that it can be completed in two days (including a day of drying time for the adhesive). And before you know it, you can have an eye-catching new focal point for your yard. (View additional pieces of my mosaic art here: www.MosaicMagic.etsy.com.)
About the Author:
Gary Piscopo is co-owner of Wholesalers USA, who provides unique glass mosaic tiles and glass gems at true wholesale prices. Visit http://www.wholesalersusainc.com
for an enormous selection of distinctive & exclusive tile crafting and home-improvement supplies. © 2007, All Rights Reserved
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Home & Garden 
Make a Mosaic Tile Birdbath in 7 Easy Steps