Upcycle An Old Tree Stump Into A Beautiful Mosaic Yard Feature

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The tree stump in your yard might be the result of some overzealous trimming, the grave of a tree lost to last year's storms, or a "gift" left behind by a previous resident. No matter how it got there, it's not going anywhere without a fight. Depending in its size, it could cost hundreds to have a tree stump successfully ripped from the ground. Even after they're removed, tree stumps or large trunk segments might just sit in a pile in your yard. But if the wood isn't in a cumbersome location, consider transforming it from a nuisance into a delightful garden feature.

There are plenty of unique ways to use a tree stump as decor, both inside and outside your home. One simple yet stunning idea is to apply a mosaic design to the surface of the stump, transforming it into a beautiful tiled table that can accommodate drinks and potted plants or just serve as pretty garden decor. 

To create this magnificent mosaic table, your stump can still be rooted in the ground or cut to a log, but it should be in relatively good condition and sizable enough that it won't tip over. To further prepare the stump, a level, chainsaw, and planer will be helpful to even out its surface. For the project itself, you'll need little glass pieces, like these Lanyani 1050-Piece Mixed Shape Glass Mosaic Tiles. You'll also need thin-set mortar, tile grout, spreading tools, a sponge, and some patience and creativity. 

Before going gung-ho with the tiles, you'll want it to make sure the surface of your stump is level, especially if you plan to set drinks or other items on the finished table. Cut the stump as flat as possible with a chainsaw, then use a planer or coarse-grit sander to make the surface of the stump even, checking it with a level. Use wood filler to smooth over any holes or deep cracks in the surface. This is important to get your tiles to lay evenly, and it will make grout application easier later. For stumps like cedar that have layered, peeled bark, apply exterior wood glue into the layers with a coarse paintbrush, then squish and seal the bark layers together around the edge of your tabletop.

Any mosaic will add an artsy aesthetic to your backyard, but consider whether you'd like a more modern geometric design, radiating rings, charming floral shapes, or a free-flowing pattern. Arrange the tiles on the stump first without sticking them down to plan your design. When you're happy with the look, pick them up one by one, butter the back with thin set mortar, and press them down firmly to adhere into place. Alternatively, you can take a photo of the design, spread mortar over your stump surface, then reset the tiles on top. Let the mortar dry for at least 24 hours. 

The final step will be to add grout to lock your tiles into place and create a smooth table surface. The color of grout you choose can greatly affect the vibe of the finished result, so choose carefully! White grout might sound classic, but it can become discolored when kept outdoors for a long time. A sandy or beige color will lend the most natural, earthy-looking results, but dark grout can also be used to make the colorful tiles pop. Use a palette knife to smear a generous amount of grout over the whole mosaic design, pushing it into all of the crevices between tiles. Soak a sponge in plain water and wipe off the grout to reveal your finished masterpiece. If your tiles are uneven, you might need to repeat the grout-and-wipe process.

If your grout looks messy around the edge of the table, blend acrylic paint to match the color of the tree bark. Carefully paint over the misplaced grout to create a clean-looking edge. A spray-on grout sealer is optional to help your table last outdoors and resist stains. Once everything has set and dried, this mystical stump is ready to use as a built-in patio table, potted plant base, or even a sundial. It's a great statement piece to start cultivating your own "Secret Garden" inspired oasis.