How to Make a Mosaic from Broken Tiles

Co-authored by Schannon Yodice

Last Updated: July 30, 2025 Approved

Left over or broken tiles can be used to make unique and beautiful mosaic designs rather than just getting thrown away. Here is a guide to make a mosaic from broken tiles.

How do you make a mosaic from broken tiles?

Tile installation and design expert Schannon Yodice recommends using ceramic or glass tile, since these are easiest to break up into smaller pieces with tile nippers. Yodice also says to make sure the surface you’re tiling is as flat as possible, and she recommends acrylic or epoxy grout, rather than a bag mix grout.

1

Decide what kind of mosaic you want to make.

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Think about what you want the mosaic to look like when it’s finished and draw it out. This can be as detailed as you want, but it just has to give you a guide.^{[1]
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2

Collect your tiles.

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Buy ceramic tiles at a hardware or floor store.^{[2]
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Schannon Yodice
Tile Installation and Design Expert

Expert Interview} Pay attention to things like color and texture. You could also go dumpster diving to find old tiles. You may want to purchase a tile cutter if you are looking for a dramatic, organized mosaic with square pieces. You should also buy some tile adhesive and cement.
- If your mosaic will be used where it may be subjected to freezing temperatures, the tiles should be porcelain that is frost resistant.

3

Break the tiles.

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Throw or drop the tiles. With your safety glasses and protective gloves on, throw your tiles at any hard object, or simply drop them. In order to avoid major scratches, lay a thin comforter over the ground. Or, score and cut with the tile cutter. These are great stress relievers and they don't hurt anyone.^{[3]
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- Gather your broken tiles into color categories. This will help you when the time comes to actually put them into place.

4

Make your mosaic.

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Arrange them in the design you want, then slide them into the wooden frame. They might scatter a little, but if you are careful, it shouldn’t be too bad. Slide the attempted escapees back into place, then individually glue each piece down with the tile adhesive.

5

Mix the cement with water.

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Once the tiles have set, mix up the cement with water until it is of the consistency described on the cement bag (liquid but not runny). Spread the mixture over the tiles, then use a soft cloth to rub off the excess that covers the pieces. You now have a beautiful mosaic!^{[4]
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Can you use broken plates the same way?

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Yes.

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Tips

Use a very strong grout like acrylic-based or epoxy grout.^{[5]
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Schannon Yodice
Tile Installation and Design Expert

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You can add food coloring to the cement to tint it.

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Plaster of Paris can be used in place of cement.

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Warnings

The pieces may be sharp; wear safety glasses and gloves while breaking the tiles.

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Take great care when mixing and using cement or tile grout.^{[6]
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