There are several kinds of mosaic adhesives used for adhering tesserae to a surface to create a mosaic.

Different mosaic adhesives are used for different mosaic applications, and some vary brand to brand. Some are also used by mosaic artists by personal choice.

The most common types of adhesives used for mosaics are:

• Mastic Tile Adhesive
• Weldbond
• Thinset
• Clear Liquid Nails
• Apoxy Resin
• Mirror Mastic

The use and benefits of each are outlined below;

Mastic Mosaic Adhesive:
A pre-mixed ready to use tile adhesive in a tub. It is used for indoor mosaics that are not subjected to water. It is white and has a very thick consistency that does not slip but grips the mosaic tiles in place even on vertical surfaces. It is applied with a paint scraper or similar tool. Mastic is often the preferred choice of mosaic adhesive for many mosaic artists.

Weldbond Mosaic Adhesive:
A pre-mixed ready to use tile adhesive. It is used for indoor mosaics that are not subjected to water.  It is white when wet, but dries clear. It is more liquid in consistency and does tend to slip on vertical surfaces but it is great for flat surfaces. It can be applied straight from the bottle and spread with a paint scraper or similar tool.

Thinset Mosaic Adhesive:
A cement based tile adhesive. It can be used for indoor or outdoor mosaics, including those subject to water. It is white and can be easily colored, it has a similar consistency as grout, and can be mixed with some grouts or used as a grout if desired. In this way if creating mosaics with transparent tersserae it is a good choice as you can have your adhesive and grout the same color. Thinset, comes in STANDARD or RAPID which refers to its curing time.

Mosaic tile adhesives, can be purchased from general hardware stores, sculpture supplies stores or from mosaic suppliers.