- 1). Sand the plywood round top with medium and then fine-grain sandpaper to remove splinters and prepare the surface for either paint or ceramic tile glue. Paint the tabletop on both sides with one or two coats of acrylic paint if desired. Dry thoroughly between coats. Painting the underside will help preserve it from the elements.
- 2). Purchase a metallic pedestal table base from the lumber store, and screw the plywood round top into it, or you can adapt a pedestal base by bonding it to the center of the plywood round with polyurethane glue. Allow the glue to cure for at least 24 hours before lifting the table top.
- 3). Plan a pattern for the top of the table by laying out pieces of ceramic until you find one that pleases you. Use the ceramic tile cutter to clip off sections of tile that overlap the table's edge. Continue to clip and fit the pieces that will be glued around the table's edge.
- 4). Sand the plywood top with medium sandpaper only to create a "tooth" that holds the tile glue. Glue each piece of tile in place according to your pattern. Allow the glue to cure for a day. You may also attach tiles with mastic. This is a resin-based tile adhesive that's much denser than regular tile glue, and it will hold heavier pieces better.
- 5). Mix the grout and apply it with a damp sponge. Press the grout down into the spaces between the tiles. Use a clean damp sponge to wipe excess grout from the tile surfaces. Buff each tile with a soft cloth and then allow the grout to dry thoroughly for at least three days, before finishing it with tile sealant. Apply the sealant according to product directions.
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