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grouting questions on BB

15 years ago

Hi all,

I am in need of some info, please. I have made the marble gazing balls for a couple years now, but never grouted any. One of my oldest ones had some marbles fall off and I got to thinking if I'd grouted it, that wouldn't happen, so I'm trying it.

What I'm wondering about is the actual process. I have used the basic sanded grout, mixed with water, either used a spatula or my hands to apply it over the ball, then taken a damp sponge to wipe off the extra - again, and again, and AGAIN!

I just want to know if I'm doing it correctly or if I'm wasting time? Cause the constant wiping is aggravating me no end. Do you guys wipe right away, or let it set a litte bit, or use a grout applicator or what? I'm getting interested in doing some mosaic stuff, but its starting to look like a lot more work than fun. Help!

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Comments (5)

texasfern
15 years ago
LOL the grouting process is not my favorite part either.
I apply my grout with sections of those swim noodle thingys.
I just slice it as thick as I want it and either half the slice or quarter it, depending on the project.
you can either soak them water, wait for the grout to dry on them and knock it off, or just throw them away.
I usually save them and use the same ones for the same color grout.
I let the piece sit and dry a bit and clean with dry grout I sprinkle on the piece.
Finishing touch is cleaning with white vinegar to shine it up and then seal the heck out of it.
Hope this helps.
It is by no means the ONLY way to do it, so just try the suggestions you will get here til you find the one that is right for you.
Pat
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katkerri
15 years ago
texas, what is a swim noodle thingy? lol!
i think i want one!
kelly, i'm new to mosaics but i've had some
success with using a credit card to apply the grout
and then wipe it off with cc edge. i was told to NOT
wipe the excess grout off with a DAMP cloth until
the grout dries for a few hrs. then, clean with damp cloth.
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kelly_oh
Original Author
15 years ago
hmmm, do you do the whole ball at one time?
0
dcarch7 d c f l a s h 7 @ y a h o o . c o m
15 years ago
I don't do mosaic, but you guys may want to give this technique a try:

1. Use hot glue to glue each piece on.
2. Grout
3. Use a window rubber squeegee to remove excess grout.
4. Use a wet sponge to clean up.

dcarch
0
momsgarden_2008
15 years ago
Hey,Kelly

I am new to grout myself and doing it yourself is even harder.
I would ask a pro becuase you will have to think about the future and cleaning grout can be tough.
Different stains require different treatments. Like my kitchen is going to be different than my bathroom.
Unfortunately I learned this the hard way. Had I hired a contractor to begin with i would a saved a lot of money
and a bunch of time. Checkout this site Kelly where I found my contractor www.GroutCleaning.com they also have a free forum where you can ask professional flooring people questions for free.

Hope I am not too late for you
0

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