The Making Process.
Our designs are site specific. Their location is considered both thematically and practically, and key visual elements are decided between the client and us through site visits and sketches. Drawings are made by hand, often several of them before the composition is complete. A final 1:10 scale drawing of the design is finished using a natural colour palette dictated by the pebbles we work with. This is often a work of art in itself.
Design for pebble mosaic floor for The Boathouse at Birkenhead Park.
The design is then scaled up on the computer and technical details added to illustrate the flow of the stones and all other details needed for the making of the mosaic in the workshop.
The design drawing is divided into a number of pattern pieces fitting together like a jigsaw, they are printed out to scale. These pieces are a reverse of the original design as the mosaic is made upside down. This ensures the surface being walked on is completely level when the mosaic is turned out.
The making of a large scale mosaic is a lengthy process. All of which is done by hand. Moulds are made using wooden blocks cut to specific curves, they can be configured to create any shape to match the pattern which is placed underneath as a guide.
Pebbles are chosen from our stores, sifted through by hand to match the colours, shapes and sizes depicted in the design. These are then placed one by one into the mould, sand is brushed against them to hold them in place and also to provide the rebate for the pebbles when the grout is poured. Details such as cut and carved slate are also added.
Mark placing pebbles in a wave form, part of a large mosaic we are currently making for Pensthorpe Nature Reserve in Norfolk.
Some pebble work is particularly highly skilled. To depict 3 dimensional figurative elements, pebbles can be graded from small to large around the form, and the colours, shapes and sizes are used like paints in a palette to illustrate the design details. This kind of detailed work takes years of practice to master. Once a pattern piece is complete, it is cast, turned out and assembled with the others in our yard.
Mosaic for an RHS Chelsea Gold winning show garden. Laid out in our yard before installation.
