How to Add Tile to a Tabletop
- 1). Design your project. Measure the tabletop that you will be adding tile to, and draw it out on paper (graph paper works well for this). Then, taking into account the size of your tiles and the space between them, sketch out your design. If you do this carefully, you may be able to avoid having to cut tile to make it fit the tabletop.
- 2). Prepare your tabletop by cleaning it out any excessive paint and obstructions. This shouldn't be too difficult in most cases, but if the surface is excessively rough you may wish to sand down the surface to get it smooth.
- 3). Spread your mortar, after mixing it according to the directions. Use the flat side of your trowel and spread a thin, smooth layer. If the tabletop is very large, you may wish to do this in small sections. However in most cases, you should be able to do this in one step.
- 4). Lay your tiles on the mortar according to your plan. Use spacers between the tiles to achieve a consistent distance. Slide each tile into position and make sure it is firmly set before moving onto the next tile.
- 5). After the tiles are set, apply grout to the seams, wiping off an excess with a damp cloth as you go along. Allow the tile and grout to set before using the table.
Source...