I have seen on other forums where people warn against it, especially mentioning not to use metal screen, reason being that it might rust. I don't see why you couldn't use fiberglass but I can't speak from experience.

I just remembered another concern about window screen. Someone said that the holes might be too small for the thinset to effectively ooze through and that your mosaic piece might not adhere firmly to the substrate.

I use the fiberglass screen - on a roll from Lowes, and have had no problems w/it. I push the tile on real firmly to ensure seepage underneath, then when I attach the piece - as I did on the water feature w/faces - I use lots of adhesive. I even grouted the pieces b/f attaching. I also used it on a large indoor project - one I started in PV, rolled up and brought back to finish at home. Also used it on a small section of the first section of the fountain surround off my patio. I love it, and it's lots cheaper than ordering from mosaic sites.

Thanks for your imput!
I am spending so much $$ on glass and dishes that I gotta save somewhere!

Good to know, Slow! Thanks.

I also have been wondering about the mesh used as a backing and where to get it and what it's called.
Slow: are you referring to fiberglass screen that you would purchase in the window department?

Silvamae: what type of mesh did you use on your butterflies? and where do you get it from?
Thanks.
Linda

Yes, CRAFTY - the kind used to make window and door screens.

I buy mine at Wits End Mosaics. I notice that Maryland Mosaics also carries it.

http://www.ec-securehost.com/WitsEndMosaics/Tools.html

http://www.marylandmosaics.com/mesh-yard-p-94.html

Thanks ladies.
Gotta get my pics posted of my completed projects. Maybe tommorrow

. .i am anxious to try this myself. .Anyone that has tried Vinyl coated fiberglass window screen (plastic)that i can find says that it works just fine.Thinset manufactures report that modified thinset (thinset with special bonding agents added) will react with aluminum and not bond properly. ( But )You may be able to use unmodified thinset (basicly cement mixed with sand )with aluminum window screen.or another type of screen like coated metal screen or stainless steel if you happen to have some laying in the recycle Bin . .StonyTile@gmail.com or Stony Tile . .
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Thanks for the tips! I had the same question as I'm making a mural for a back splash.. :)