How to make an address plaque w/tiles?

[July]

Can anyone help me with this?

I have three four-inch square number tiles that I would like to use outdoors, either in a low-standing plaque or hanging on the porch eaves. I'm assuming they should be set into a frame, but I really don't know what I'm doing. Could I use a picture frame? What cement or mortar would I use? Do I need to protect the tiles from cracking with some kind of coating?

They're lovely Mercer tiles, just sitting in a drawer. I'll take all suggestions! Thanks.

[Pathwalker]

1. Okay, i'll give it a whirl.

If your tiles are heavy, you will need to glue or morter them to a backboard. You can use simple plywood for this. Since no one will walk on these tiles, you can use glue - a strong one. If you want grout between the tiles, you can pick that up at a local hardware or home improvement store. You can use a picture frame around it to secure the tiles in place, I recommend having this set up before you glue down the tiles. Set up the entire frame and background FIRST, so your tiles won't move out of the frame, once you glue them in place.
If your tiles will be subjected to waether, you will need to seal them with a polyurethane, but if you don't want the tiles to yellow - use an acrylic sealer - just make sure that has CURED before you put it outside.

I hope this helps.

[July]

2. Thank you very much, Notorious Bohemian.

Love your name, by the way.

[Pathwalker]

3. A few more tips for doing it cheaper.

Don't want to buy a bag of grout? Buy a small tub of spackling paste; if you want it a certain color, simply add a small amount of craft acrylic paint to obtain the desired shade. For an inexpensive sealer, simply use clear nail polish. Just remember, if you want the sealer to yellow, use an enamel. If you don't, be sure you use an acrylic polish. Those will be in the nail strengthening section (Sally Hanson, etc.).

I'm glad you like my handle - thanks! :-)

Good luck with your project!