What is smalt? Mosaic smalt patterns

Surface decoration with mosaic patterns has recently enjoyed little popularity. However, true connoisseurs of original styles do not leave this direction of decor. Compositions of many elements of different shapes and structures are used in private homes and in the decoration of public buildings. The main thing is to correctly determine the characteristics of the material used. One of the most interesting solutions of this kind is smalt. This is a mosaic pattern formed by stained glass. Such compositions are appreciated not only for their unusual aesthetic effect, but also for physical properties that are advantageous in terms of operation.

smalt pattern

What is smalt?

The rich history of technological processes for obtaining mosaic panels of glass has led to an ambiguous definition of smalt. In different historical periods, the material for such compositions was presented in different ways. The unification of different concepts occurred through two components. First of all, these are glass fragments, and then additives, due to which the elements of the mosaic received one or another shade. A classic for smalt is the blue color, which was obtained thanks to compositions based on cobalt and silicic acid. Today, this term is most often referred to as finished glass fragments for forming panels. Mosaic smalt, the photo of which is presented below, is an example of the final use of this material.

mosaic smalt

Varieties

Any decorative material for mosaics suggests the possibility of obtaining a wide range of stylistic solutions. The endowment of smalt elements with different textural and textural properties is due to the use of certain glass processing technologies. In particular, the basic state of smalt, which has a transparent shade, is achieved through fire-resistant dyes. Traditional techniques involve the production of opal or deaf fragments. In other processing methods, smalt stone is obtained, which is also endowed with high strength indicators. For example, elements with gold and silver shades are formed by pressing the foil between different layers of glass. An interesting option in the form of spotted or sinewy smalt. Such a product is obtained thanks to a special heat treatment, after which components are introduced into the composition that endow the structure with certain shades.

Technique of making smalt

smalt stone

From the manufacture of the material itself to the final formation of the decorative composition, several technological steps must be performed. It’s worth starting with the fact that smalt is basically still a glass product obtained as a result of special processing methods. As a rule, ordinary glass is crushed to form a fine, almost powdery mass. To give the mixture a suitable shade, metallized oxides are introduced precisely, which also affect the future structure of smalt. It is important to note that large masters do not use artificial dyes.

Next, the resulting mass is heated to high temperature - about 800 degrees. This process provides sintering of the material, which can be subjected to molding. The most common shapes are rectangles, triangles, ovals, and various polyhedra. The fact is that at this stage smalt is a malleable procurement material that can be handled like plasticine. Therefore, it is possible to create stylized complex figures. So, for example, create patterns with elements that simulate raindrops, rays of the sun, etc.

Smalt properties

smalt photo

Mosaic compositions seem unprotected from external influences, especially mechanical properties. But this does not apply to smalt. Again, the introduction of metallic oxides gives the structure and such qualities as strength, stiffness, wear resistance and, as a result, durability. What is especially important, the staining technique involves filling with color pigments throughout the structure, so the material does not fade and does not lose its original color. Mosaic smalt also successfully resists atmospheric influences - from the sun and frost to heavy rainfall. Close contact with water does not harm smalt fragments in any way, so it can be used in the decoration of bath rooms, pools and baths. However, in the protective qualities of completed laid compositions, much depends on the binder - usually plasticizing cement mixtures on which the elements are fixed.

Pros and cons of smalt

The advantages of smalt rightly include decorative properties. To achieve an unusual stylistic effect and many artificial products allow. But not a single material of this kind will provide even a feeling of naturalness close to smalt. Therefore, technologists strongly do not recommend the use of artificial dyes - the exclusion of such additives guarantees the depth and purity of textured perception. Also, do not forget that smalt is a material melted from glass, made using the molding technique. This technological nuance of manufacturing makes it possible to exclude sharp edges of fragments, which, in turn, facilitates measures to care for them. The minuses of smalt include the complexity of manufacturing techniques and high cost. The independent production of such elements does not always live up to expectations, so many art lovers initially turn to the products of professionals.

smalt is

How much does finished smalt cost?

Smalt is sold in different formats. The most common implementation of packages that contain elements of a certain mass. For example, a kilogram of such fragments for the future mosaic may cost about 1-1.5 thousand rubles. The specific price tag depends on the format of the elements themselves, the technique of their manufacture and color scheme. Ready-made smalt tiles of various formats are also available on the market. So, a small panel of 300x300 mm can cost 400-500 rubles. Obviously, it is more profitable to acquire fragments by weight that have not yet been laid in the finished composition. The same kilogram is enough to decorate an entire zone on the wall. Another thing is that the styling process is also difficult and requires a certain knowledge of the contractor.

Conclusion

smalt tile

Technology for creating mosaic compositions has always been considered the most difficult way to decorate. This is confirmed by the smalt pattern, which has a unique design effect. Today, both the use of classic bright blue smalt fragments and experiments with details imitating the texture of precious stones and metals are practiced. Smalt can be used in a variety of places - versatility is also one of the main advantages of this material.


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