How to Tile a Backsplash the Easy Way Using Mussel Bound
I’m no stranger to tiling, but let me tell you- tiling a backsplash or smaller space doesn’t have to be messy, time consuming, or complicated. If you’ve ever wanted to skip the thinset and jump straight into grouting, Mussel Bound might be your new best friend. We recently used it for the built-in backsplash in our home gym and I promised to share the process. We’ve used this product multiple times and definitely recommend it… whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, this makes tiling small surfaces quick, clean, and easy. Here’s how it works and why you’ll see us using it again…
What Is Mussel Bound?
Mussel Bound is a peel-and-stick tile adhesive mat that replaces thinset mortar for small tile jobs. It’s designed to hold tiles in place instantly (and permanently)– no curing or setting time required. It’s basically a heavy duty double-sided decal.
Why & Where I Recommend It…
- It’s mess-free. No mixing mortar or cleanup.
- Immediate tile setting. Tile stays put without slipping.
- Cuts your work time. You can grout immediately- no need to wait overnight.
- It’s ideal for small spaces. Think backsplashes, the powder room, a niche, or a bar (like our basement bar, pictured below).
How to Use Mussel Bound
Here’s how we use Mussel Bound. We’ve used it in over 5 projects now… most recently, our home gym. Check out that project here, if you’d like: Home Gym Renovation Update: Wallpaper and Cabinetry. Here’s what you’ll need:
Tools & Materials
- Mussel Bound tile adhesive mat
- Rubber roller
- Utility knife or scissors
- Level or laser level
- Measuring tape
- Grout float + grout
- Sponge + bucket
- Tile spacers (if needed)
- Your preferred tile
Step-by-Step
- Clean your wall surface. Make sure it’s smooth, dry, and free from dust or grease. We ended up priming our backboard first.
- Apply the adhesive mat. Peel the backing and press the sheet onto the wall, using the rubber roller, smoothing it out as you go.
- Install your tile. Press your tile firmly onto the adhesive mat, row by row. We like to use a laser level to keep our lines straight.
- Grout immediately. That’s the beauty of Mussel Bound- no waiting! If you want to streamline this process even further, we like use this premixed grout (less mess and no cleanup).
- Wipe grout haze and finish. Use a wet sponge to clean your grout and polish your tile once it’s dry.
In the gym, we’re tiling the backside of the built-in shelving. You can see how it looks above, before we peeled the decal and began installing the mosaic tile.
Where Mussel Bound Works Best
There is definitely a time and place for using traditional mortar , but this handy product can you save you a lot of time for smaller projects. It’s perfect for the following…
- Backsplashes
- Laundry room wall tile
- Bar areas or dry bars
- Smaller kitchens
- A niche
- Any small project you’d like to avoid the mess that accompanies tile
Pro Tip: It’s not ideal for floor tile or heavy-duty areas with direct water exposure. Stick to vertical, dry installations.
Would I Use It Again?
Absolutely! For smaller jobs where we need to save time and want to avoid cleanup, Mussel Bound is the perfect option. It expedites the process, giving you the same permanent result as traditional mortar. I love how fast it goes and how our workspace stays clean- no bucket of thinset, no tile slippage, and no delay between tiling and grouting.
We’ll definitely use it again for simple projects… it’s a great tool to remember (pin or save this post for your text tile project)! We’ve used it in our office kitchenette makeover at Tuesday Made (pictured below), in our basement bar here at home, and most recently in our home gym we’re currently renovating.
FAQ
Yes! Mussel Bound replaces mortar, not grout. You’ll still need to grout between tiles to finish the look and seal the gaps.
It’s strong, but with some elbow grease and a heat gun, you can remove it later if needed. Be prepared to patch the wall behind it. It’s made to be a permanent solution.
You can find it at most home improvement stores or online (I’ve linked it here).
It’s best used in dry areas or where water exposure is minimal. I wouldn’t recommend it for shower walls or areas with direct water spray.
It works well with ceramic, porcelain, and even mosaic tiles- as long as they’re not too heavy. I’ve used everything from ceramic subway tile to marble… both of which held beautifully.
Related
If you have tile projects, a bathroom renovation, or kitchen makeover on the horizon- check out some of these tile and grout related posts… I hope they’re helpful!
- How to Make Subway Tile Look Classic, Not Basic
- The Best Mapei Grout Colors (Designer Tile Pairings & Advice)
- How to Easily Tile Over an Existing Concrete Patio
- Our Entryway Tile + Alternative Options
- My Favorite Affordable & Classic Backsplash Tile Options
- How We Choose : Grout for Tile
- How to Install Mosaic Floor Tile + My Favorite Marble Mosaics
- How to Plan and Design a Shower Niche
- DIY Heated Floor Tile
- How to Install Floor Tile
Whether you’re tackling your first tile project or just want to skip the mess that typically comes with mortar, Mussel Bound is worth trying. For us, it makes install so much faster, cleaner, and honestly-more enjoyable. If you’ve been putting off a small tile project, consider this your gentle nudge to get going! Let me know if you give it a try or have any questions… I’d love to hear how it works for you.
