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Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash (for UNDER $40!!)

May 30, 2013 by Bethany Sy

So hey! Let’s talk about how to INSTALL this Mason Jar Mosaic backsplash that just went up in our upstairs bath! If you missed Part 1, we discussed how to tint clear glass Mason jars (or any clear jars you have lying around), as well as breaking and sorting your ‘Tesserae’!

Now lets get down and dirty (LITERALLY) with some tile adhesive compound and goopy grout! Grouting a backsplash is a messy job, and there will be several occasions where you want to take a bath in turpentine, but JUST KEEP GOING! The end result is well worth it!

DIY Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash Tutorial

Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash (contains aff links)

  1. 12 (1qt) Mason Jars or any plain old jars!
  2. Poly Blend Grout $10.99 (we already had)
  3. Tile Adhesive (Ker 909) $8.99
  4. Notched Trowel $8.37
  5. Pebo Vitrea 160 Glass Paint (in Turquoise) $7.84

————————-

Total cost: $36.19

Our total cost: $25.20 (!!!)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We started out with a tub of tile adhesive (we used Ker 909… $8.99 for the whole tub). For this size backsplash, we used less than half the tub. There’s no need to mix anything here… just dig your trowel in (or in our case a putty knife), and slap it on the wall. Stick with an area that’s about 1 square foot at a time, and smooth the adhesive on about 1/4” thick… like frosting a cake!

Installing a Mosaic Backsplash: Tile Adhesive

You’re supposed to use a notched trowel whenever installing a backsplash of any kind (unless you’re painting your backsplash!) because it creates ‘air pockets’ that supposedly help keep everything secure when dry. I believe this is legit, but it was a huge PAIN and I quit doing it after my first square foot. Just bein’ real! (Real LAZY!) But I’m giving you an image below, so that I can feel like I’m providing a thorough tutorial.

Notched Trowel ~ Installing a Mosaic Backsplash

Because your broken mason jar pieces are rounded (some more than others), ‘butter’ on some adhesive to the back of each piece with a plastic butter knife before pressing it into place. When you stick it onto the wall, you should feel it press firmly into the goop. You’ll just know, trust me! If it’s not secure, pull it off and butter on some more adhesive.’

Install a Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash

This was the most time consuming part of the process. I took a break after each square foot because my back hurt… but you can tackle it faster because you’re a spring chicken! You’ll get into a groove, and learn to be less messy as you work your way down the line.

Installing a Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash: Adhering broken pieces

When you press each tile into place, if there’s some tile adhesive that globs up between pieces, try to wipe it off with a clean finger and scrape it back into the bucket. You want there to be enough of a groove between ‘tiles’ that the grout will have somewhere to go. Make sense? This stuff dries like concrete, so you’ll save yourself some time later by trying to keep things as clean as possible.

The instructions on the tile adhesive say that you should wipe off excess compound from the face of your ‘tile’ immediately if you can (otherwise scrub it with mineral spirits after it’s dried). I found this to be difficult because the tile would move around when I was trying to wipe it, so I just tried to keep things as clean as possible and planned to wipe it down later with mineral spirits.

Installing a Mosaic Backsplash made from broken Mason Jars

Here’s where my regrets about tinting the outside instead of the inside of the jars come into play. When I began wiping down the glass pieces with mineral spirits… IT STARTED REMOVING THE ‘PERMANENT’ GLASS DYE. It was at this point that I just about took a sledge hammer to the whole thing. Then I tried using a chisel (which is actually much easier), and it was still chipping off the tint! I’m not going to even show you a picture of what the tiles looked like, because this isn’t going to happen to you. Because you’re going to dye your jars on the inside. RIGHT?

My mason jar mosaic backsplash looks a little globbier than yours will, because I had to touch up my tiles with more glass tint. It’s not a big deal, because we’re going to seal the backsplash and it’ll be super durable and all. But I could just cry thinking about how that one simple step almost ruined everything. Moving along!

Now that your glass pieces are free of ickiness, and everything is good and hard (we waited a couple days), it’s time to mix up the grout! Make sure you use ‘non-sanded’ grout for this, so as not to scratch your glass pieces. Mix according to directions on the box.

Grouting a Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash

Just scrrrrrape it on with the flat edge of your trowel or putty knife, making sure to push it down into those grooves real good!

Grouting your Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash!

We did half the backsplash at a time with this. After the grout was packed on real good, we immediately scraped off the excess with an old rubber spatula. This allows the grout to stay down in the grooves between the glass. At this point, you may notice areas that didn’t get enough grout… go ahead and slop some more in those spots!

Remove extra grout from your Mosaic Backsplash.

Wait 10 minutes, and go at it with a big sponge, using a different part of the sponge for each wipe (otherwise your just smearing grout around). You’ll need to rinse your sponge A LOT in a bucket of water. And you’ll need to get fresh water every 4 or 5 times of rinsing your sponge. Be patient! Some of your ‘tiles’ will be completely buried in grout… scrub ‘em out! You’ll know where they are because there will be a blank spot!

Clean excess grout off mosaic pieces.

You should be left with clean yet ‘hazy’ tiles. Let them sit this way for two hours.

Instructions for installing a glass mosaic backsplash.

Then come back and polish them with a cheesecloth or lint-free cloth.

You are DONE my friends! Stand back and check out your Mason Jar Mosaic BACKSPLASH! Not bad, eh? If there are any sharp corners sticking up that didn’t get smoothed over with grout, just take a fine-grit metal file to it, lickity split! Then apply white (or whatever color your grout is) silicone caulk where the backsplash meets the counters. We didn’t end up sealing our grout since it was in the bathroom… we weren’t worried about stains as much. But from what I read, it’s recommended to seal the grout for kitchens and flooring. I did a quick google search here and found tons of products for this!

DIY Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash Tutorial PART 1

The premise is simple for installing this backsplash, but it WILL take some time and elbow grease… so just gear up for it! Eat lots of snickerdoodles in advance so your body and mind are ready for it!

UPDATE! It’s been 3 years since we installed this mason jar mosaic backsplash, and it still looks awesome! We occasionally wipe it down with a washcloth without any problems, and we haven’t gotten scratched or cut at all!

As always, if you use our tutorial to install your own Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash, be sure to send us pictures! We can’t wait to see yours! And feel free to comment below with any questions you might have!

~Bethany

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Be sure to check out our tutorial for building a butcher block counter!

DIY Butcher Block Counter Tutorial

THANKS for pinning!

DIY Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash Tutorial... everything for under $40 bucks!

*this post contains affiliate links

 

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  • Master Bathroom Reveal

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About Bethany Sy

Nick and Bethany Sy are the creative free-spirits behind DIY/Lifestyle blog, Reality Daydream. They recently purchased a historic mansion and have been documenting the ups and downs of renovation and making this home their own... all while sharing tips and tutorials along the way! When they found themselves in the trenches of infertility, they started a journey that would prove to be their most important DIY project ever, and have 3 beautiful girls to show for it. <3

« Mason Jar Mosaic Backsplash – PART 1 {Tinting & Breaking Jars}
Build a Custom DIY Trellis in an Afternoon {GIVEAWAY CLOSED} »

Comments

  1. 135

    Tammy Wilson says

    October 16, 2021 at 11:53 am

    Thanks for this inspiring tutorial! We took you basic idea and ran with it. In the end we did a « backsplash » that covers two walls in the kitchen. We used objects, like the key to husbands childhood home, my grandmother’s china and many more significant items as well as broken colored glass. My daughter extended the grey grout we used up over the window and etched in images of cedar, birch, ferns, pine , bittersweet etc. I just love it. We would never have been brave enough to take it on without you example. Thanks so much!

    Reply
    • 136

      Bethany Sy says

      November 1, 2021 at 3:01 pm

      No wayyyy! I must see this! Can you email me a picture at beth@realitydaydream.com ?

      Reply
  2. 137

    emma says

    July 16, 2021 at 1:59 pm

    But for our small bathroom backsplash, we used about 3 dozen 32 oz mason jars. We had quite a bit leftover, but it was nice to have excess because you’ll find yourself searching for a certain size/shape piece sometimes. Hope this helps! Send pics when you’re done!

    Reply
  3. 138

    Charlene says

    July 1, 2021 at 2:05 pm

    Do you think. This would work for in the tub ? Trying for a diy budget friendly. I just love I can choose colors that would go with 50’s seafoam green tub, sink and toilet with out breaking our wallet.

    Reply
    • 139

      Bethany Sy says

      July 1, 2021 at 2:10 pm

      Are you talking about the wall around a tub? Like the shower surround? That’s a lot of surface area and would take a lot of time. But it would be very cool! Please do note that there can be sharp edges that may need to be filed down.

      Reply
  4. 140

    Beverly says

    May 25, 2020 at 6:32 pm

    I have wine bottles that I want to use outside on stepping stone can you do everything the same way? Also how is the glass not sharp and cutting your hands i noticed you did not use gloves? Thank You

    Reply
    • 141

      Bethany Sy says

      May 26, 2020 at 3:57 pm

      Hey Beverly, I have no idea if this would be durable enough to use as stepping stones. And yes we totally cut our hands. We lived in the country at the time, and if you don’t have something, you just figure it out since it’s so long to drive in for supplies!

      Reply
  5. 142

    syd says

    April 27, 2020 at 1:48 am

    Love it!!!!! Did you end up not sealing the backsplash? I want to do this in my kitchen with the white grout, but I’m afraid it will eventually look so yucky. What do you recommend I seal it all with?

    Reply
    • 143

      Bethany Sy says

      April 28, 2020 at 11:41 pm

      We didn’t, but if you’re doing this in the kitchen, I would definitely seal it.

      Reply
      • 144

        Kp says

        May 16, 2020 at 9:32 am

        Bethany,

        I have. 2 cases of wine glasses from the tasting centers and would like to use them instead of Mason jar. Do you think it would work?

        Reply
        • 145

          Bethany Sy says

          May 18, 2020 at 12:41 pm

          I would think so, yes!!

          Reply
  6. 146

    Liz says

    September 24, 2019 at 6:38 pm

    I really like this idea. Did you have to use an outlet extender so that the face plate would fit on to the outlet after tiling or we you able to reattach workout any issues?

    Reply
    • 147

      Bethany Sy says

      September 24, 2019 at 9:18 pm

      We did use an outlet extender. It was pretty easy and we didn’t have any problems!

      Reply
  7. 148

    samstory says

    November 30, 2018 at 1:00 am

    My brother suggested I might like this web site. He was once
    entirely right. This put up truly made my day.
    You can not imagine simply how much time I had spent for this info!

    Thank you!

    Reply
  8. 149

    Amy says

    July 29, 2018 at 7:03 pm

    Do you think this would also work for seashells? Wanting to make a seashell backsplash for my garden rub.

    Reply
    • 150

      Bethany Sy says

      July 30, 2018 at 12:03 am

      Yes absolutely! And PLEASE send pics when you’re done!
      beth@realitydaydream.com

      Reply
  9. 151

    Jessica says

    February 28, 2018 at 3:00 am

    Is it necessary to paint the glass?

    Reply
    • 152

      Bethany Sy says

      February 28, 2018 at 12:23 pm

      If your glass is just clear without any tinting, you’ll just see the mastic through the glass and it might look really messy. But if you’re going for a white/clear look, you should go for it! Please send pics when you’re done!

      Reply
  10. 153

    BARBARA says

    December 5, 2017 at 1:55 pm

    Can this be used for a kitchen back splash?

    Reply
    • 154

      Bethany Sy says

      January 24, 2018 at 3:02 pm

      Yes I would think so! It would be a lot of work to install, but would make an awesome statement. If you give it a go, be sure to send pics!
      https://www.facebook.com/groups/DIYRealityDaydream/

      Reply
  11. 155

    Jan Collar says

    August 11, 2017 at 6:17 pm

    I have shattered glass from a sliding glass door that I wanted to tint lavender/purple and cover the top of a small cafe table. Is this the same method and supplies I would use?

    Reply
    • 156

      Bethany Sy says

      August 11, 2017 at 6:32 pm

      Yes I would think so!

      Reply
  12. 157

    Kerstin says

    April 17, 2017 at 9:12 pm

    OMG! I wish I have seen this earlier. We just started to put a new backsplash on in our kitchen. Would have gone with this project.
    So unique. Great job and thank you for sharing.

    Reply
  13. 158

    MELINDA says

    December 27, 2016 at 7:21 am

    use a cake decorator bag to apply the grout around the pieces of glass. Smooth with pencil or pen and save yourself the cleanup time.

    Reply
    • 159

      Beth @ Reality Daydream says

      December 27, 2016 at 2:18 pm

      That’s so smart!

      Reply
    • 160

      Michelle K Hughes says

      December 5, 2019 at 12:47 am

      What do you mean by smoothing it out w a pencil? I am just learning

      Reply
  14. 161

    Sarah says

    June 6, 2016 at 4:20 pm

    I love this!!! I’m going to use wine bottles to create this in the small area we have behind our new stove. I was able to find a grout sealer that can be applied over glass, I’ll post a picture of it completed and let anyone know if it worked for us. So excited and so thankful for how detailed your steps were!

    Reply
    • 162

      dani says

      January 15, 2018 at 6:43 am

      Sarah, did it work?

      Reply
  15. 163

    Chelsie says

    May 21, 2016 at 6:32 pm

    What is the square footage of your backsplash? I want to make sure I have enough of everything:)

    Reply
  16. 164

    Ani says

    April 9, 2016 at 11:17 pm

    Thank you so much for sharing your back splash project, it turned out beautiful. I really like how you explain step by step in details with a sense of humor, good job!

    Reply
  17. 165

    Rachel says

    January 15, 2016 at 8:30 pm

    I was wondering if those tile adhesive strips would work for this application. I’m thinking of doing my guest bathroom, but I doubt I’ll have the stamina to sit/stand while piecing onto a wall, especially overy my head. It would be easier to do the strips, then put them all up at once.

    Reply
    • 166

      Lisa Porter says

      December 11, 2016 at 4:31 pm

      we used the adhesive tiles for our kitchen back splash as a quick fix until the big reno. they are awesome. go for it.

      Reply
  18. 167

    Caitlyn says

    October 25, 2015 at 6:34 pm

    Hi! Do you think this would work in the shower? I would love to make one HUGE mosaic wall instead of using tile. What would I use to make it waterproof??

    Reply
  19. 168

    Kari says

    May 29, 2015 at 9:09 pm

    I just came across this as I was looking for an inexpensive backsplash. I am curious though, what did you use on top? It looks like a white ledge of some sort.

    Reply
    • 169

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      August 14, 2015 at 9:21 am

      Oh my goodness, I don’t know how I’m missing comments. So sorry! Yes we put a white piece of trim over the top ledge to cover the uneven edge and make it appear more crisp and ‘finished’. We routed a groove under the trim so it would fit flush against the wal and still cover the top of the backsplash. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  20. 170

    Claire says

    March 17, 2015 at 1:26 am

    I cannot wait to do this in my kitchen! I happened upon your pin on Pinterest & instantly fell in love! Any idea about how many jars you need per square foot of this project?? I am trying to collect jars.

    Reply
    • 171

      Kari says

      May 29, 2015 at 9:10 pm

      Do you have an answer to this, as I am thinking about starting this project! 🙂

      Reply
      • 172

        Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

        May 30, 2015 at 7:03 am

        Kari, we just installed a trim piece (a transition strip I think) to cover up the rough edge at the top. Hope that answers your question! And let me know if you have any more! and definitely send us pics when you’re done. 🙂 Good luck!

        Reply
      • 173

        Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

        August 14, 2015 at 9:22 am

        I’m so sorry, somehow I’m missing comments! I would say about 3 quart jars per square foot of backsplash you’re doing. Hope this helps!

        Reply
    • 174

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      August 14, 2015 at 9:22 am

      I’m so sorry, somehow I’m missing comments! I would say about 3 quart jars per square foot of backsplash you’re doing. Hope this helps. Send pics when you’re done!

      Reply
  21. 175

    Michelle says

    March 9, 2015 at 10:19 pm

    Can you do this on a wooden surface? Neat DIY!

    Reply
    • 176

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      March 16, 2015 at 8:17 am

      I don’t see why not! Send us pics when you’re done!!

      Reply
  22. 177

    Barb says

    March 7, 2015 at 4:27 pm

    Ball now make tinned jars if you need to buy them. You can buy green and blue.

    Reply
  23. 178

    Ariel says

    March 7, 2015 at 12:34 am

    Hi, I was wondering…do you think this would work as a fireplace surround?

    Reply
    • 179

      Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      March 8, 2015 at 2:34 pm

      In theory it should… I would just do some research on the caulk to make sure you get one that’s heat resistant. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  24. 180

    Cheryl says

    February 22, 2015 at 8:04 am

    Right above the pic with you using the silicon scraper to remove the excess there is an unfinished sentence “If you notice an area that didn'”…. What is that statement? Thanks

    Reply
    • 181

      Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      March 8, 2015 at 3:14 pm

      Oh weird! I don’t know what happened to that sentence! I went back and fixed it. Here’s what I was trying to say:

      At this point, you may notice areas that didn’t get enough grout… go ahead and slop some more in those spots!

      Reply
  25. 182

    Tami says

    February 1, 2015 at 1:22 pm

    Was thinking that if you used a rock tumbler you could make the edges softer and make sea glass. Would be very pretty as a backsplash in a bathroom or kitchen.

    Reply
    • 183

      Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      February 2, 2015 at 1:41 pm

      That is a great suggestion! If we do this again in our other bathroom we’re totally going to do that!

      Reply
    • 184

      Cheryl says

      February 22, 2015 at 8:06 am

      Google idea for a frosted look!

      Reply
      • 185

        Cheryl says

        February 22, 2015 at 9:47 am

        That auto filled, should be “good”.

        Reply
    • 186

      Richelle Taylor says

      August 13, 2015 at 4:03 pm

      omg love that idea..seaglass crazy right now! This whole project is so cool, thanks so much for sharing everyone!

      Reply
  26. 187

    Martha says

    January 26, 2015 at 8:47 am

    This is AWESOME. Have been scouring Pinterest for backsplash ideas that are unique, stylish, inexpensive, and do-able. This is it! Thank you for this post!! Love it!

    Reply
  27. 188

    Lorraine Turner says

    January 8, 2015 at 1:07 pm

    I am almost finished my back splash. So after it is dry, hazing removed and sharp edges filed— you say to seal with CLEAR Poly- it is not in your list of ingredients at total of project (end of your blog). Can you be more specific? I have never used anything but a grout sealer, so the clear Poly- what is it, and does it go ONLY on the grout lines? Thanks

    Reply
    • 189

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      January 10, 2015 at 3:35 pm

      We didn’t end up sealing our grout since it was in the bathroom… we weren’t worried about stains as much. But from what I read, it’s recommended to seal the grout for kitchens and flooring. I did a quick google search and found tons of products for this! https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=grout+sealer&tbm=shop

      Reply
    • 190

      KJlikestodesign says

      January 11, 2015 at 10:22 pm

      My question is for Lorraine Turner, did you use the mason jars & paint all different colors or something else? Your glass pieces seamed to be flat compared to the demo? Just curious, & what type pf paints did you use? I love all the colors. Thanks in advance 🙂

      Reply
  28. 191

    Jordyn says

    December 29, 2014 at 10:27 pm

    Hi, I am currently collecting mason jars to do this to my backsplash in my kitchen. It’s a whole wall behind my sink (No grease will be near it) How many bottles of coloring do you suggest I order? I have about 100 mason jars so far, and they were all free!! I want to order the same color as you so that I can expect the same results 🙂

    Reply
    • 192

      Jordyn says

      December 29, 2014 at 10:31 pm

      Also, how do you think maybe mixing two different colors would come out? Like turquoise for some then the Lacquer Blue for others?

      Reply
      • 193

        Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

        December 30, 2014 at 8:04 am

        Yes I think mixing two different colors could be fun!

        Reply
      • 194

        Killian says

        January 1, 2015 at 8:52 pm

        We used 5 different colors (1 has a frosted look!) and even mixed a couple when we needed “just a bit more paint”. It’s only about 1/3 – 1/2 way done, but it looks amazing so far!

        Reply
        • 195

          Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

          January 4, 2015 at 6:08 am

          CANNOT wait to see pics!! It’s going to be awesome!

          Reply
      • 196

        Lorraine Turner says

        January 8, 2015 at 1:08 pm

        I just used about 10 colors and combined it with broken stained glass:) I streaked in various shades while painting the mason jars and they look fantastic!

        Reply
    • 197

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      December 30, 2014 at 8:08 am

      It’s hard to suggest an amount without knowing the square footage of your area. But for our small bathroom backsplash, we used about 3 dozen 32 oz mason jars. We had quite a bit leftover, but it was nice to have excess because you’ll find yourself searching for a certain size/shape piece sometimes. Hope this helps! Send pics when you’re done!

      Reply
  29. 198

    risie says

    December 27, 2014 at 3:27 pm

    Awesome job! It’s came out great, thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  30. 199

    Lynda says

    October 11, 2014 at 7:27 am

    This is great, thank you for sharing! I have a question.. what is the easiest/safest way to break the mason jars into pieces?

    Reply
    • 200

      Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      October 11, 2014 at 8:03 am

      HI Lynda! We laid out all our jars on a sheet, put a another sheet over them, and took a hammer to them! It was actually pretty fun. 🙂 We describe it more in the Part 1 post of our Mason Jar Backsplash… here’s the link!
      https://realitydaydream.com/2013/05/mason-jar-mosaic-backsplash-tutorial.html

      Reply
  31. 201

    arlette says

    June 30, 2014 at 8:47 am

    juntare botellas de vino verdes asi reciclare un poco mas y lo haré en las paredes de mi baño gracias por la idea

    Reply
  32. 202

    Miriam@Hometalk says

    April 30, 2014 at 4:42 pm

    This literally made my jaw drop — wow! I’m going to dig now for a picture of the full kitchen so I can get see it with the rest of the space.

    Reply
  33. 203

    Roger Mose says

    April 6, 2014 at 1:47 pm

    What a great Do-It-Yourself project. I wonder if you can tile over tile that is already there. Do you recommend removing the old first? he kids would love to get involved with something like this project. seems kid friendly enough.

    Reply
  34. 204

    Hannah says

    March 10, 2014 at 10:11 pm

    Just curious how long you’ve had it up since finish date and if you would get cut wiping it down during cleaning!?!?!! Thinking about doing my kitchen.

    Reply
    • 205

      Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      March 11, 2014 at 7:59 am

      It’s been about 8 months now, and it still looks great! Occasionally there are some water spots from splashing, but they wipe right off! I can’t say for sure how well it would work with grease if it were on a kitchen backsplash. I’ve seen some people that seal the grout with a water-based polyurethane, but that sounds like a very tedious task since you’d want to avoid getting it on the glass. Let me know if you give it a try, and how it works out for you!

      Reply
  35. 206

    ag says

    February 13, 2014 at 9:04 pm

    Hello,
    It looks awesome. To get a hold of a Mason jar in Australia is a least a few bucks each. Would Spaghetti Jars do for the whole project? Should I be looking out for thick glass jars?

    Reply
    • 207

      Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      February 14, 2014 at 8:45 am

      Spaghetti jars would work perfectly! I used a combo of mason jars and spaghetti jars, and you can’t tell the difference between them. Good luck! Send pics when you’re done!

      Reply
  36. 208

    samantha says

    January 17, 2014 at 12:14 pm

    I want to do this with beer bottles in my kitchen

    Reply
    • 209

      Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      January 17, 2014 at 12:16 pm

      Cool! You SHOULD! It’s time consuming, but totally worth it. And sooooooo inexpensive! Pleeeeease send us pics when you’re done?

      Reply
  37. 210

    capturing joy with kristen duke says

    January 12, 2014 at 10:16 am

    nevermind, just was the PIN IT at the end!

    Reply
  38. 211

    Trashcraft says

    January 4, 2014 at 8:32 pm

    Holy crapola!! I love the color, but how did you not keep from getting your fingers sliced up? I tried tiling my bathroom with free tile scraps, necklaces, gun brass, shells, etc. but when I tried some broken china and glass plates, the curves were just very scary. No matter how careful I was, I still got cut. However, this is very cool! I am going to show my brother this…he will like it too!

    Reply
  39. 212

    Delene says

    December 20, 2013 at 7:28 am

    Where have you been all my life? This is amazing! I have been looking for this idea for several years. Having lived in a rental house & not finding glass tiles that I liked or could afford, this would have been the answer. I have since moved & will definitely give this a try. Thank you so much & Happy New Year to you both!

    Reply
  40. 213

    Kristin says

    November 8, 2013 at 11:28 pm

    That is amazing! Love it!

    Reply
  41. 214

    Ann-Marie says

    October 26, 2013 at 2:33 pm

    This may be a very elementary question, but after tinting, baking, and breaking the glass, will it be obvious which side is the inside and which side is the outside when placing the pieces onto the back splash? Would there be occasion where tinting inside and outside would be advised? Thanks again, great job!!!

    Reply
    • 215

      Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      October 26, 2013 at 2:43 pm

      If you were tinting a flat panel of glass, it would be difficult to tell which side is tinted. But since the mason jars are curved, it’s pretty easy to tell. I don’t think there’s a situation where you’d need to tint both sides.

      Reply
  42. 216

    wanderingsue says

    October 8, 2013 at 3:41 pm

    Oh, you gorgeous things! I just followed a link from Nine Red, and I’m a little besotted already. I’ll be daydreaming about not being rubbish at DIY- thanks for the inspiration!

    Reply
  43. 217

    Kate says

    October 8, 2013 at 11:58 am

    And bubbles…why do I have bubbles?! Getting tempted to throw these jar around the room.

    Reply
  44. 218

    Kate says

    October 2, 2013 at 6:59 am

    Probably just me confusing myself, but I am struggling to work out why it would make a difference painting the inside?? Surely once it is broken up you won’t know which side is which?

    Absolutely in love with this and am working up the enthusiasm to attempt this as a kitchen splash back as I can’t find anything in the shops that I like!

    Reply
    • 219

      Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      October 2, 2013 at 12:12 pm

      You can tell by the curvature of the glass which side is the inside or outside. If you were using a flat panel if glass, it would be hard to tell. Please send pics when you’re done!

      Reply
      • 220

        Kate says

        October 2, 2013 at 12:55 pm

        *slaps forehead*
        That makes sense…my tired brain couldn’t figure it out! Will let you know if I do get around to it!

        Reply
      • 221

        Kate says

        October 8, 2013 at 11:56 am

        I have bought the purple paint and thinner…have painted one jar and it now hasdrips and streaks. Not looking attractive.
        How much thinner should I put into the paint? And how did you get yours so streak free?!!!!

        Reply
        • 222

          Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

          October 8, 2013 at 11:59 am

          Truthfully mine was pretty streaky too. If you mix your paint a little thicker you can avoid the drips a lot better. The beauty is that you’re going to break them into little pieces, so you won’t notice brush strokes and such nearly as much as you are right now. 🙂

          Reply
        • 223

          PattyP says

          August 28, 2018 at 6:50 am

          I used a very soft round art type natural hair paint brush with a 1/4″ wide ferrule. As I painted mine under a britght light, I watched carefully as I painted. I went back over anything immediately that seemed streaky. I did not use any thinner. I think that would make streaking worse.

          Reply
  45. 224

    Rina Mosley says

    August 26, 2013 at 3:14 pm

    This is beautiful! I have been looking for a blue backsplash for months and haven’t found anything I like. What a simple idea! I would have never thought of this! You say it took you about 15 hours would you say you could finish this in a weekend? Thank you so much for the post! I’m trying to talk my husband into doing this 🙂

    Rina Mosley

    Reply
    • 225

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      August 26, 2013 at 6:48 pm

      Hi Rena! I’m glad you like it! You should totally go for it! If you’re pretty dedicated, I would say you could totally finish it in a weekend… depending on how large your backsplash is. It also depends on your tile adhesive compound and how long is says to let it dry before grouting. If you decide to go for it, be sure to send pics! Good luck!

      Reply
  46. 226

    Jeanie Hevener says

    August 10, 2013 at 2:32 am

    Wow, I love this. It looks beautiful!

    Reply
  47. 227

    Anonymous says

    July 12, 2013 at 9:52 pm

    Beth,
    I have a couple of questions for you. But first let me say, I LOVE your tile backsplash! I want to do the same in our super boring kitchen. I have one green accent wall and need something catchy other places. I also have 45, yes 45, glass vases left over from our wedding last year just dying to be used (no pun intended.) I was wondering, do they make the dye in green, preferably dark like seaglass? What color grout would you recommend if the cabinets are brown and counters are tan? I should also mention, we are trying to sell the house so I want it to be something that others would like too.
    Thanks for any advice or suggestions you can offer.

    Reply
    • 228

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      July 12, 2013 at 9:55 pm

      Yes they have lots of colors! Click this link and scroll to the bottom to see them all.

      http://www.cheapjoes.com/catalog/product/view/id/26827/

      MAKE SURE you dye the glass on the inside, and I would definitely read part 1 of my backsplash tutorial. 🙂 The whole thing is a lot of work, but it’s SO worth it! Be sure to send pics when you’re done!

      https://realitydaydream.com/2013/05/mason-jar-mosaic-backsplash-tutorial.html

      Reply
    • 229

      M says

      September 3, 2014 at 1:40 pm

      You can now buy pre-colored mason jars. I think it’s Ball brand but maybe Kerr too. They come in blue, green, and purple. They are sold in most stores that carry cases of mason jars. Lahr stores like Target should have them and I have even seen them in supermarkets

      Much easier and superior than fussing with streaky paint.

      Reply
      • 230

        Bethany @ Sawdust and Embryos says

        September 3, 2014 at 1:42 pm

        I’ve seen those, and I’m so excited that they’re coming out with other colors again! This will definitely make this project easier!

        Reply
  48. 231

    One Sassy Mama says

    June 5, 2013 at 5:29 pm

    I love the look of the pretty blue of the Mason jars. I too have some similar questions as it seems others have: 1) how was it working with the sharp glass? I’d be worried to slice myself open. 2) Would this at all be suitable for a kitchen backsplash? Do you think it would get stained easily?

    Reply
    • 232

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      June 6, 2013 at 3:45 am

      I did cut myself ONCE while wiping of tile adhesive from between the glass pieces. But I knew going into it that it was bound to happen at some point. I’m actually surprised that it only happened once! 🙂 You could wear rubber gloves if you wanted. It really helped me when I was sorting the glass pieces, because I didn’t have to think about being careful. It would have gone a LOT slower otherwise.

      As far as the kitchen backsplash… that would look AMAZING! And it would totally be suitable for a kitchen. The grout would be just as susceptible to staining as grout on a basic tiled backsplash. But plan on it taking MANY MANY hours. The whole time I was installing this small bathroom backsplash, I kept thinking to myself ‘I’m so glad this isn’t a whole kitchen backsplash’. I just want to be honest with you! If you know it’s going to be time consuming going into it, it may not be all that frustrating for you. I do hope you’ll send pics if you decide to try it!!

      Reply
    • 233

      Dee says

      March 21, 2014 at 9:39 am

      PLEASE!!!!!!!!! Use a rock tumbler to smooth the glass before painting the glass and doing this project!

      Reply
  49. 234

    Anonymous says

    June 3, 2013 at 4:50 am

    This project is INCREDIBLE! I am in awe! I am dying to try it. Does anyone know if you can buy the paint locally at a craft store, or is it strictly online at the above link? I like to see colors in person. Thanks. Lisa M, Portland, OR.

    Reply
    • 235

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      June 6, 2013 at 3:40 am

      Lisa, I called around (Hobby Lobby and Michaels) and they didn’t have any glass dye. I agree that it’s nice to be able to look at things in person. It’s worth making some phone calls though! 🙂

      Reply
  50. 236

    AmyB09 says

    June 1, 2013 at 3:32 pm

    This is really cool–I would probably slice my fingers off with all the glass, but still really cool! 🙂

    Reply
    • 237

      Dee says

      March 21, 2014 at 9:38 am

      PLEASE!!!!!!!!! Use a rock tumbler to smooth the glass before painting the glass and doing this project!

      Reply
  51. 238

    Kenz @ Interiors By Kenz says

    May 31, 2013 at 8:02 pm

    I’m still so amazed with this project. It blew me away! You are amazing. This turned out SOOOOOOOOO good!

    Reply
  52. 239

    Anonymous says

    May 31, 2013 at 5:23 pm

    So, SO pretty. With that fabulous counter top? MMM-mmm…just fantastic. Wondering how it was working with sharp glass pieces. The grouting process seems like it would provide so many opportunities to accidentally rub along a sharp glass edge. Anyway, thanks for sharing. Super job!

    Reply
    • 240

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      June 6, 2013 at 3:39 am

      You bring up a good point. And I knew when I started this project that I needed to be ok with cutting myself once or twice. I did slice into my index finger on ONE occasion while wiping of tile adhesive from between the pieces of glass. But that was the only incident! Not bad! Wearing rubber gloves while sorting all the little glass pieces really helped too, so I probably should have been wearing those while applying the tile adhesive. OH WELL! 🙂

      Reply
      • 241

        Dee says

        March 21, 2014 at 9:36 am

        This is crazy stupid! How many times will you get cut while wiping down the counter, the backsplash, or turning on the faucet????? And think of the children getting near it!
        PLEASE! Purchase an inexpensive rock tumbler and tumble the glass pieces for two days in water and sand to smooth the sharp edges before painting on the color! Then you can complete the project AND stop worrying about cuts for the duration and life of the backsplash!

        Reply
  53. 242

    MrsTerri says

    May 31, 2013 at 12:31 am

    Looks great!! I’m going to be doing something similar…only for an outside project. I will be blogging about it someday, maybe, lol…

    Reply
    • 243

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      June 6, 2013 at 3:37 am

      Send pics when you’re done Terri! I can’t wait to see it!

      Reply
  54. 244

    AllieD245 says

    May 30, 2013 at 11:11 pm

    I am SO glad to see you doing turquoise things again! I mean…I love your blog and read it regardless, but originally started reading because or your love for orange and turquoise just like mine : )
    ALSO…love your little tally/breakdown at the bottom and difficulty rating. AWESOME!

    Reply
  55. 245

    Judith Riggs says

    May 30, 2013 at 9:45 pm

    Wow, one piece at a time? No wonder you have back problems! I bought fiberglass mesh – the stuff the professional tiles come on – glued all my little tile bits to that and then stuck it to the wall in large 18″ sheets, then grouted.
    I love the idea of the broken glass — makes me wonder if you can just use anything… plates, pottery etc…??

    Reply
    • 246

      Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

      June 6, 2013 at 3:37 am

      Totally Judith! You can use just about ANYTHING in your mosaic. Broken pottery would be really beautiful. You better send pics if you end up trying that!!!

      Reply
    • 247

      Lrimerman says

      June 26, 2013 at 3:00 pm

      Judith,

      What type of glue did you use on the mesh to attach the pieces?, that seems like a really great way to do this a bit “easier” than one piece of glass at a time.

      Reply
  56. 248

    royaltysparkles.com says

    May 30, 2013 at 8:53 pm

    You bet I pinned that bad boy. We’ve got some down time between closing on our house and our official move in day… I think this would be a great project for the kitchen! I’m off to find some mason jars to paint! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  57. 249

    Ankica Dujakovic says

    May 30, 2013 at 8:30 pm

    This is so good!

    Reply
  58. 250

    christina @ homemade ocean says

    May 30, 2013 at 7:29 pm

    I am just so amazed by this…like my jaw hits the ground amazed. Don’t be surprised if I just come up and hug you at Haven…it’s your backsplash’s fault 🙂

    Reply

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We are Nick and Bethany! Welcome to our blog, Reality Daydream where we share our DIY adventures!

realitydaydream

Still can’t get over these shelves. 😍 These Still can’t get over these shelves. 😍

These Aksel Radius Floating Shelves by @shelfology are the perfect finishing touch to this wall in our kitchen. 🙌

#gifted #shelfology #radshelfie #floatingshelf #akselradius
I needed an instant-gratification project today fo I needed an instant-gratification project today for my well-being, and this little wooden stand was so fun and fast!

Details and links to everything in this pic in Stories!
If ya just need a slab of wood, grab a cutting boa If ya just need a slab of wood, grab a cutting board when you’re at Target or Walmart! They’re made of hard wood!

I used this cutting board to experiment and make some prototypes for a large-scale piece of art I’m doing for our church. It’s got me EXCITED!

Follow along for that project- happening soooon!

@dapproducts @dremel @jet.woodworking
You’ve all seen the video, but here’s some sti You’ve all seen the video, but here’s some still shots of the kitchen wall in all its glory!! 

The Aksel Radius Floating Shelves by @shelfology were the perfect finishing touch! 

Should I do a house tour of our main floor this week?!?! 🙌🌿

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View of our entryway of our historic mansion that we're slowly renovating and making our own.
Click here for lots of art projects using only wood stain on furniture!!
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Attention: Almost any do-it-yourself project involves risk of some sort. Your tools, materials, and skills will vary, as will the conditions at your project site. Reality Daydream has made every effort to be complete and accurate in the instructions of the plans on this website. Reality Daydream will not assume any responsibility or liability for damages or losses sustained or incurred in the course of your project or in the use of the item you create. Always follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions in the use of tools, check and follow your local building codes, and observe all commonly accepted safety precautions.

 

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