Mosaics Fruit on a Vase

I wanted to show you one of my mosaic projects that I did while living in Africa. Mosaics are very popular in Swaziland and South Africa...I was fortunate to live close by to shop that sold mosaic supplies (and gorgeous other items) and to attend the mosaics classes that they offered: 

"Peace from Pieces" (thanks Linda!)   

Here is the last project that I completed while in Swaziland; this is one vase with a fruit border all around--

grapes, pears, oranges, apples:

When I purchased the vase, it was glazed/finished in the inside. I sketched the fruit and applied my glass tile cutouts with a border of tile beneath to create a "base" for the fruit to rest upon. 

After the grouting was complete, I applied Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in "Old White" and "Paris Gray." I used both the Annie Sloan Clear and Dark Soft Waxes to finish the outside of the vase. 

Mosaics class has been a wonderful creative outlet for me while I have been living overseas. I attended most of the classes at Linda's home, although she occasionally had some classes at her shop in town. 

We would arrive for class at Linda's home, nestled in the sugar cane fields and beautiful countryside surroundings. After being greeted by welcoming committee of friendly pooches and an occasional cat, we would settle with some hot coffee/tea and delicious cupcakes, muffins and fruit.

Picture taken by oh-so-talented friend Tracy MacDonald 

After working for a good portion of the day on the veranda, we were invited to a scrumptious lunch, prepared by Mike, Linda's hubby. The table was always exquisitely dressed, and most often set up out of doors in the back garden of the home. What an "Out of Africa" feel that was!...a formally dressed table and elegant dining room chairs, chandelier hanging from the tree above, and delicious food and company to share it!

Picture taken by Tracy MacDonald

The start of something beautiful...Tracy's project, photo by Tracy

It truly was an amazing time spent with amazing, creative people! 

Great memories plus knowledge gained in mosaics!

Thanks for stopping by today. It will be sometime before I will be back. I look forward to returning with new projects and ideas!