. . . how to set pebbles for best effects
Flat, oval-shaped pebbles are usually set on edge, working them in
rows or lines, each pebble being pushed down closely to the next one, as
seen in the illustrations. Other flat pebbles, also set on edge, may be
worked across at right angles or at contrasting angles to the first group
to give background texture and direction. Round or egg-shaped pebbles
might be used as a background for contrast of texture, as well as for
color contrast, if you wish. Another effective pattern is obtained by
using the flat patterns in a chevron or braid design, with other parts
set differently. (See the illustration among the Paving examples, Chapter XVI.) Don't neglect a change of pace and texture obtainable by
using pebbles of several different sizes as well as differently shaped
ones.
Your fancy will dictate what pattern and design to use-modern abstract, non-objective designs, or copies of old arabesques, geometric
or regular patterns-whatever you may choose to relate to the style of
your house and to give the effect you want to achieve where you will
be making the mosaic. Beyond integrating the design with the surroundings, the sky is the limit for your inventiveness and creativity.
Try anything which occurs to you in your trial run. Put fair-sized
round pebbles (2 to 21/2 inches) at regular intervals and surround them
with oval-shaped pebbles set on edge to follow the outlines of the circle
of each round pebble. Between these regularly placed circles, fill in
the background with flat oval-shaped pebbles also set on edge but runding in straight lines, choosing a contrasting color. This is merely an
example of how you can begin; you will find dozens of other patterns
occurring to you as you work in the trial-run sand box. Try anything
ou like, secure in the knowledge that it is not irrevocable; and then,
when you finally make up your mind about what you are going to do,
you are ready to prepare for the final steps.
. . . final preparations
Count the pebbles in the design if you find you do not have enough to
complete it and then find more of the proper ones. Don't start until
you have more than enough of every kind to complete the job. Then
you can prepare to set them in the cement mortar. Bring your various
cans or boxes of pebbles out and place them where they can be reached;
count them once more to be sure that you have 5% to 10% more than
you think will be necessary, thus taking care of any miscalculations that
may have been made.
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