Albuquerque Belt Buckle Tutorial

Created by: Mollie Valente

Designer Tips

Plan your layout for design and fit.
Use two-part epoxy to glue the mosaic components in place. Allow to cure overnight.
Mix grout according to manufacturer's instructions. Read and follow application and clean up directions.
Apply the grout to the mosaic in a circular motion while pushing the grout into all voids.
Allow grout to set for 10 minutes, then use a slightly damp sponge to clean up excess grout and smooth the surface. Rinse sponge and repeat until clean.
Allow the grout to cure fully.

Free Technique Sheets & How-Tos

Suggested Supplies

1 ea #60-230 Adhesive, Epoxy, 330
1 gross [use 4] #26-464-1 Bead, 4.5mm Round, Corrugated (White)
1 strand [use 4] #21-884-147 Bead, Gemstone, Round, 4mm (Mookaite)
1 strand [use 21] #21-884-030 Bead, Gemstone, Round, 4mm (Sodalite)
1 ea #30-682-01-AS Belt Buckle Blank, Rounded Rectangle, 87mm (Antiqued Silver Plated)
1 bag of 10 [use 1] #25-130-03-1 Button, Bone, Oval, 21x25mm (Can be antiqued using tea, coffee or store-bought dyes)

Tools

Additional Supplies

Non-sanded black grout for mosaics (from the craft or home improvement store)
Sponge
Miscellaneous gemstone beads: Mollie used 4x6mm - 8x12mm ovals in Poppy Jasper and African Turquoise, and 4-6mm rounds in Mookaite, Sodalite and Rhyolite.

Jan 1st 2021 Mollie Valente