From the page: The shiny disc asks for a new shine

Idea 1

Glittering mosaic

Easy 1.5 h

Mosaic is one of the oldest decorative techniques in the world, made by Romans and Byzantines with stone and glass shards fitted one by one. The CD brings this tradition into modern days: its recorded side reflects light because it has an ultra-thin metallic layer that splits the rainbow's tones into tiny sparkling bits.

What you need

  • 2 or 3 CDs that have already served their purpose
  • Sturdy scissors or cutting pliers
  • A base: flower pot, small mirror, wooden box or picture frame
  • White glue or contact cement
  • Simple grout (or fine mortar) and a spatula
  • A clean cloth for the final polish

How to make it

  1. 1

    Cut the CD first by the edges, removing the smooth outer ring, because the center without the reflective layer doesn't shine. Then cut the disc into irregular pieces of 1 to 2 centimeters — be careful, the edges cut like glass.

  2. 2

    Arrange the pieces on the base without gluing yet, mixing the reflection tones. This lets you adjust the design before committing the glue.

  3. 3

    Glue them one by one, leaving small gaps between them. The spacing is what will make the grout outline and highlight each fragment.

  4. 4

    Spread the grout with the spatula covering everything, forcing it into the gaps. It works like mosaic cement, fixing and protecting the sharp edges.

  5. 5

    Before it dries completely, wipe with the cloth to remove the excess from the surface of the shards. This leaves the rainbow shine free to reflect light.

Finishing touches

A sprayer of acrylic varnish protects the piece and intensifies the shine. Pots, small table tops and frames get a new life with this fragmented light.

Share this idea

This is one of the ideas from the full page — see all the possibilities.

This page feeds the collective knowledge 🌱 — every discovery makes the next answer better.