A relaxed mosaic project using tile, mirror, and grout to create a decorative planter
This project transforms a plain resin pot into a decorative mosaic planter using broken tiles, mirror pieces, and grout. The design is intentionally loose and organic, making it ideal for using up leftover materials and experimenting with texture and pattern.
The example shown was designed for a bathroom setting, using green tiles and mirror to reflect light and colour. You can adapt the colours, materials, and layout to suit your own space.
Presented by: Crafty Corner
Skill level: Confident Beginner
Age suitability: 12+ with adult supervision
Supervision note: Involves tile cutting, sharp edges, and grout; eye protection recommended when cutting tiles or mirror
Materials and tools
- Resin pot (available from Crafty Corner)
- Mosaic tiles (colour of your choice)
- Mirror (broken or off-cut)
- Two-wheel tile cutter
- Wood glue
- White grout
- Water
- Mixing tub
- Ice-cream stick or spatula
- Pencil or felt-tip pen
Before starting, read through all the steps and prepare your workspace. Mosaic is a slow process — give yourself time and work in stages.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the mosaic pieces
Cut your mosaic tiles into uneven pieces and group them into a pile by colour. Cut the mirror into small, irregular pieces and place these in a separate pile.
The variation in size and shape will add texture and movement to the finished pot.
Step 2: Mark the design
Using a pencil or felt-tip pen, draw a loose zigzag line around the pot to divide the top and bottom sections.
In this example, the lower section is tiled and the upper section uses mirror, but this can be reversed or adapted to suit your design.
Step 3: Begin gluing the tiles
Apply wood glue to a small area at a time — roughly the size of an R5 coin. Working with the pot held at a slight angle, place the green tile pieces onto the glued area in a random arrangement.
Because the glue takes time to grip, allow each section to settle before moving on.
Step 4: Work slowly around the pot
Continue gluing tiles in small sections until you have completed the lower part of the pot. Work carefully along the zigzag line to keep the division between sections clear and visually strong.
This is a slow project and is best done over time. Rushing will cause tiles to slip or fall off and quickly become frustrating.
Note: Silicone adhesive can be used if you prefer faster grip, but wood glue works well on porous resin if allowed to dry properly.
Step 5: Add mirror and texture
Once the tiled section is complete, begin adding the mirror pieces to the top section of the pot. Place them randomly, allowing gaps for grout.
Occasionally insert a mosaic stone or contrasting piece to add texture and visual interest.
Step 6: Finish the rim
Cut approximately twelve 2 cm square tiles in half. Glue these pieces around the rim of the pot to create a clean, finished edge.
Allow this section to settle before moving the pot.
Step 7: Allow to dry fully
Leave the pot overnight so the wood glue can cure completely. This drying time is important — grouting too soon can loosen the tiles.
Step 8: Grout the mosaic
Prepare the grout according to the instructions on the packaging. Apply it generously over the entire mosaic surface, pressing it into all gaps between the tiles and mirror.
For detailed grouting guidance, refer to Step 13 of the Mosaic Teddy on the Moon project.
Step 9: Clean and finish
Before washing off the grout, the pot will appear fully covered and cloudy. Once the grout has begun to set, gently wipe away the excess with a damp sponge or cloth.
After cleaning, allow the grout to dry fully. Add soil and a plant to complete your mosaicked resin pot.
