After allowing the mortar to dry overnight I applied a light colored grout (bone), after the grout dries I will clean any residue from the tiles and file down a few sharp corners, and my bench will be done!!
Next we dig out a patch of grass on the lawn by the lake and pour a concrete slab where the bench will reside, a perfect place to watch waterfowl and summer lake activities and a great spot to sit to put on skis or snowshoes during winter. I’m excited to install it in its new home.
Meanwhile, Joann is placing tiles along the edges of her bench in mortar and will reassemble the center design onto the sticky mesh before sliding it onto mortar. Dennis, our ever ready assistant and patient teacher kindly cut mitered corners for her border.
Carols border and sides are set, and the center design is ready on the mesh for placement. I marvel at her precision, and the clean lines of her work. She is a perfectionist and it shows.
I’ll post photos of my finished bench on the lawn by the lake once it is installed.
Gail Niebrugge, Alaska artist
