Wood Glue / PVA Glue: The indoor favorite
PVA glue (polyvinyl acetate), colloquially often called white wood glue, is the most accessible adhesive for mosaic hobbyists. It is a white liquid that dries completely transparent.
When do you choose PVA glue?
- Indoor projects (2D/flat), such as trays, coasters, or photo frames.
- Applications on porous surfaces such as wood, MDF, canvas, or cardboard.
- When working with children: the glue is safe and easily washes off hands.
PVA as a sealer or primer
On highly absorbent surfaces (such as MDF or untreated wood), you can dilute PVA glue with water to seal the surface. This prevents the substrate from absorbing all the moisture from your adhesive or grout.
- Light sealer: 1 part PVA to 3 or 4 parts water (penetrates deep into the pores).
- Standard primer: 1 part PVA to 2 parts water (most commonly used for wood/MDF).
- Strong sealing layer: 1 part PVA to 1 part water (forms a distinct film).
How to make it: First, pour the water into a container and then add the PVA. Mix until it forms a homogeneous mixture (without white streaks). Apply with a brush and let it dry for at least 12 to 24 hours before you start mosaicing.
Silicone Adhesive: For 3D and Glass-on-Glass
Silicone adhesive is a true all-rounder, especially when working vertically or outdoors. This adhesive is completely moisture- and frost-resistant and retains a certain degree of elasticity.
Why use silicone adhesive?
- 3D objects & Vertical surfaces: Thanks to its thick, pasty texture, tiles "stick" immediately. They will not slide away on sloped or vertical surfaces.
- Glass-on-glass: Because the adhesive dries crystal clear, it is ideal for transparent projects. Tip: let a drop of adhesive spread out smoothly between the glass pieces to prevent air bubbles.
- Outdoor use: Resistant to all weather conditions (moisture- and frost-resistant).
Work neatly! Cured silicone is difficult to remove. If you still need to correct something, use a sharp knife to carefully cut or scrape the adhesive away.
Adhesive Paste: Ready to Use
For those who prefer not to mix adhesive themselves, a ready-to-use tile adhesive paste like the Mapei Ultramastic III is an excellent choice. This white paste is suitable for both indoors and outdoors, and for 2D and 3D projects.
Creative possibilities with paste
Adhesive paste can easily be colored using pigments. This is ideal when working with marble or smalti, where the adhesive itself acts as 'negative space' and makes subsequent grouting unnecessary.
Cement-Based Adhesive: For heavy-duty work
For large outdoor projects, floors, or permanent installations, we recommend a cement-based powder adhesive.
- Mapei Adesilex P9: This professional adhesive is extremely moisture- and frost-resistant. Ideal for larger projects and is also sold in handy 5kg packaging.
More tips & advice?
Are you curious about the specific properties of grouts or other installation materials? Be sure to read our extensive blog post about the various Mapei products.
