Mosaic stepping stones are fun to make. They are also a great way to use up glass scraps that you have.
A stained glass mosaic step is basically cutting stained glass and embedding it in cement.
Stepping stones can be made any size and shape you desire. Your local hobby or craft store has a variety of molds you can choose from or you can use old baking pans.
Once you have chosen your mold, you will need to trace the bottom of the mold to make your template pattern.
To make your pattern you can use pre-designed patterns and adapt them to your mold's size and shape or you may choose to design your own pattern. Once you have selected your pattern, trace it onto the template you made of the mold.
The next step is to cut out your glass. The easiest way to do this would be to make a duplicate of your pattern with each piece labeled with the color, grain, and number of its location. Using scissors, cut out each piece of the pattern. Then trace each pattern piece using a permanent marker onto the glass your specified for each piece. Using your glass cutter, cut out each piece for your design.
Once all your glass is cut, use a glass grinder to smooth any rough or ragged spots on the glass.
If your wish to use glass paint to embellish your design, this is the time to do this. Most glass paints will require you to wait 24 hours to let them dry then bake to seal paint. You can purchase glass paint at your local hobby or craft store.
Next, cut a piece of clear contact paper the size of the bottom of the mold you have chosen.
Now coat the mold, bottom and sides with vaseline. Peal the backing off the contact paper you previously cut to fit the bottom of the mold and place it in the mold sticky side up.
To place your glass in the mold, use a reverse pattern of your design and place it under the mold. Now place each piece of glass you cut on top of the contact paper. You are placing your glass in backwards, this way when you turn your mold over after it has dried, it will be right side right. Once you are sure of each glass placement then apply pressure on the glass pieces to ensure full adhesion to the contact paper.
Now it's time to mix your cement an pour it into the mold.
Following manufacturers directions, mix your cement in a container to the consistency of a thick brownie mix. Once the cement is thoroughly mixed, gentle pour the cement into your mold. Lightly tap or jiggle the mold to remove trapped air.
Let the mold sit, undisturbed for 24-48 hours. Once the cement has set, gently remove your mosaic from the mold. With a damp cloth you can remove any cement that has seeped onto the glass.
To ensure proper curing, place a damp cloth over your stepping stone and let it cure for 2 weeks.
All that is left to do is place your stepping stone in your garden any enjoy
This same process can be used to make garden benches, tables, or anything else you find a mold for.