Learn the Reverse-Paper Mosaic Method with Cathleen Newsham - Feb. 20-22, 2026
Scroll down to see more details about the workshop, instructor and cancellation policy.
TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE: Pay in Full or use coupon code: DEPOSIT to pay 50% deposit
Learn the Reverse-Paper Mosaic Method (3-day class) with Cathleen Newsham
Date: Feb. 20-22, 2026 - Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Skill Level: All levels
Hours: 10am – 5pm with a lunch break
Materials included: All materials included
Minimum # of students: 6
Description: If you have questions like these, this workshop is for you:
- How are the mosaic murals in the New York City subways fabricated and installed?
- How do I make a mosaic totally flat with no sharp edges using materials that are different heights?
- How do I create a large mosaic mural when I only have a small studio space to work?
- How do I install a large mosaic without tiles falling off during the process
- What adhesives should I use for a mosaic mural that will be installed outdoors?
Learn the newest Reverse-Paper Mosaic Method so you too can create flat mosaics using smalti and glass. Creating a mosaic for a public mural or for certain architectural uses like flooring, showers or back-splashes can be challenging even for a seasoned mosaic artist. Cathleen will show you in this 3 day workshop how to create a flat mosaic using the method that she has developed after 27 years of experience, She will enable you to have the confidence to create a durable mosaic that is fabricated in such a way that the installation process will be a breeze.
Cathleen’s method enables you to create large mosaics in smaller sections, so even if you have a small studio, you can create large projects. She will show you how to work from a photograph, drawing or painting in the reverse method, enabling you to do everything from your studio, (including grouting), so all you have to do to install is apply the correct thin-set to your substrate then adhere your completed mosaic “puzzle” pieces.
The method Cathleen uses is similar to the way the majority of the NYC subway mosaics are now created and installed, and the method she has used to create mosaic floors, murals and other projects that must be flat and have no sharp edges, which is what most architectural and public mosaics require.
We will each be creating our own small 8”x8” works using Cathleen’s method, then adhering to a wedi-board backing. You can use your own art source, or Cathleen will provide you with a variety of options. You will be able to take this piece home and hang it on your wall using the hardware that we will affix to the wedi-board.
Wedi-board, smalti, glass and adhesives will be included in the total cost of the workshop. You will also receive a detailed hand-out with information about the tools and supplies we will be using to create the mosaics.
Click here to see Cathleen's Featured Artist article!
About the Instructor: Cathleen Newsham
Designer and mosaic artist Cathleen Newsham, founded Modern Mosaic Arts in 1999, and has been teaching adults and children her techniques ever since. A member of the Society of American Mosaic Artists and a founding member of the New England Mosaic Society, Newsham enjoys the connections she makes with both experienced and novice mosaic enthusiasts through her teaching.
Cancellation Policy:
- 50% deposit is required to hold your space in the class or workshop.
- Balance due 14 days before class or workshop date.
- Full Refund - 30 days prior to the class or workshop minus a $50 processing fee.
- Full Refund if class or workshop is canceled.
- No Refunds - within 30 days of the class or workshop unless we can fill your space minus a $50 processing fee.
- No Refunds - within 7 days of the class or workshop.