This may well be the final installment for our Do it your self glass tiles series view the previous posts here. (Feel free to post comments for additional ideas for this series)

Part 1    Part 2  Part3

 

 

Let’s talk about tools used to cut glass tiles. There are 3 main tools used to cut glass tiles:

 

  1. Nippers: Pliers with sharp tips. Nippers are handy for cutting small mosaic tiles, standard glass tiles. Make sure the nippers are new or as good as new.
  2. Glass Scoring Knives: For larger straight cuts on standard smooth tiles. Basically, you will be scoring and snapping the tile along the desired place of cutting.
  3. Wet saws: Power saws with a water sprayer. Do NOT use the ceramic blade that comes with most wet saws-replace it with a diamond electroplated glass tile blade.

If you will be using a wet saw, you have the option to rent or buy. You may be better off buying a (smaller) tile saw since that will equal the price of renting one for 2 or 3 days.

 To lay the tiles you will need:

Large sheets of cardboard, thinset (tile adhesive), grout, bucket, water, sponge, dry towel, pencil, eraser, 3/16”v-notched trowel, power drill, cement-mixing tool bit and grout float.

Measure the dimensions, transfer them on paper and lay them on a horizontal surface. Then spread thinset onto the wall using the trowel. Spread adhesive directly on the tiles and lay the tile sheets with the paper side out. After 20 minutes, use a damp sponge and warm water to gently wipe down the paper. Make sure the paper is saturated and darkened. After a few minutes, carefully peel off the paper. Wait 24 hours to grout the tiles. Prepare the grout according to manufacturer’s instructions (you will need a drill and mixing bit) and spread the grout using a hard rubber grout float. Let the grout set for 20 minutes then clean off using a dry cloth and following up with a sponge and warm water. (The less water you use, the better). Buff the surface and watch your glass tile backsplash shine!

To see images and detailed instruction on how to create a glass tile backsplash go to http://www.hgtv.com/decorating/colorful-glass-tile-backsplash/index.html

In the mean time if your looking for a large selection of quality glass tile, mosaic glass tile or backsplash tiles at wholesale prices  vist us at www.glasstileoasis.com