Created more than 4,000 years ago, the technique of mosaics has become one of history's most revered and revamped forms of art. From their origins in ancient Greece to their prevalence in modern society, mosaics have evolved through the ages as an intricately decorative way to adorn a myriad of objects, from elaborate murals and floors, to homemade mirrors and vases.

Simply put, a mosaic is a pattern of tesserae - traditionally fragments of small stones, glass, tile or pottery - arranged on a surface for decorative use. Today, however, virtually any material can be considered tesserae, from bottle caps to marbles, which can in turn be applied to almost any surface using grout, a cement-like adherent.

The first step in creating your mosaic is to select your tesserae. An array of materials are available to choose from, whether they're purchased at a local craft store or found around the home. Craft stores sell ceramic tiles and glass pieces made especially for the creation of mosaics, but if you want to incorporate a more personal touch in your piece, consider using old dishware from your kitchen cabinet. There's no better way to recycle chipped or mismatched china than to break them into pieces and reassemble them in your own design. If you desire a uniform look with your tesserae, you can use tile nippers or glass cutters to trim edges, where appropriate.

Next, decide on your surface. Surface materials can range from mirrors to picture frames to wooden boxes to candle holders to vases. Here, you're limited only by your imagination. But a word of warning: If your mosaic is intended for outdoor décor, make sure it is protected with a weather-resistant sealant.

You may opt for a pre-drawn pattern with your mosaic, or you may simply want to wing it with the design. Either is fine, although if you have a pattern, you can trace it lightly on your surface to guide you throughout the process.

The easiest way for beginners to apply tesserae is using the direct method. This method is recommended for first-timers because it allows you to see the design as it is being made. Using a ready-mix tile adhesive or a cement mix, "butter" each piece of tesserae and apply it to your surface. When you have completed your design, and your tesserae are strongly adhered, spread a grout mixture, which can be purchased in powdered form from craft stores, over the entire design. This grout mixture will essentially "frame" your design and can create a striking contrast as the background. A variety of grout colors are available, which can drastically alter the appearance of your project. Let the grout sit for about 20 minutes, and then gently wipe any residue off your tesserae with a damp sponge. When you're finished, buff your project with a dry cloth and let it shine!