DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
Creation: The design is developed by moving and rearranging pieces until
satisfaction is achieved. The work is done directly upon a plywood base and is
one-of-a-kind. This creatively intense process is the most time consuming stage of
the entire procedure. Depending upon the size of the piece, several hours to
several days are spent creating the design. A completed design 'rests' for a day or
so, allowing time for 'fresh eyes' to review the work and make additonal
adjustments.
Construction: Each variety of tile has its own thickness gauge and must be
brought to a common level when being set into place. This slight difference in
height contributes to the character of the final piece. We cut each tile individually
and take the time to merge these diverse pieces of varying heights, some smaller
than one half inch. This technique differentiates our work from modern day tile
setting where most pieces under two inches come pre-arranged and glued on a
mesh backing. When the final arrangement is approved each tile is lifted again
and mastic (adhesive) is applied. A thirty inch round may easily contain more than
a thousand pieces. Beginning to end may require three weeks to three months to
complete, including curing periods.
Time, an integral element, often the difference between the exquisite and the
mundane.
CARE AND PRESERVATION
Surface Finish: When the mastic is cured, sanded grout is applied. The cured
grout and stone are sealed as a final step. This sealer has been specifically
formulated for use on natural POROUS stone. It is called Stone Enhancer and
deepens the color of the stone upon application. Once the sealer is applied water
will bead up. Sweating glasses will not penetrate the finish and hot casseroles
(350 degrees) may be placed upon the surface. Do not immerselazy susan
works. Clean top surface with soapy sponge then wipe with damp paper
towel. Do not use abrasive cleaners which will wear off the sealer.
Re-application of sealer is not necessary as long as water beads up well. Keeping
your table indoors or in a protected area will extend its life. Outdoor use is not
recommended. Acid rain may wear away the sealer in less than one season.
BRING INDOORS BEFORE FROST.
DO NOT LEAVE YOUR MOSAIC OUTDOORS IN FREEZING TEMPERATURES.
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| WE HAVE BEEN CREATING WORKS OF ART AT THE WORM'S EYE SINCE 1976 SPECIALIZING IN ONE-OF-A-KIND MOSAICS. |
