Roman Britain / Learning resources / Crafts
Crafts · Free printable
Make a paper mosaic tile
Turn coloured paper scraps into a mosaic picture with a repeating border.
Suggested ages 5+ with adult help · Allow 30–45 minutes · 2 A4 pages
Print your template and guide
The first page contains the template or planning sheet; the final page has materials, making instructions and discussion ideas. Free for home and classroom use. Print single-sided in black and white. Print folding templates at actual size.
You will need
The template, scrap paper, glue stick, pencils and a piece of recycled card. An adult can cut paper into small squares.
Make it step by step
Colour the grid lightly to plan a border and centre.
Tear or cut small paper squares, with adult help.
Glue them onto the grid, leaving narrow gaps. Mount the dry picture on card.
Describe your repeating pattern and compare paper pieces with mosaic tesserae.
Tips and questions
Begin with two colours for a simple border. For a challenge, make a symmetrical centre. Ask which materials would survive better than paper and why.
Connect it with Roman Britain
Mosaics were made with small pieces of materials including stone and glass. This collage uses paper, with new patterns of your own.
Suggested ages are a guide. Read the instructions together and adapt the practical work to your learners. Ask an adult to help with cutting.
Explore more
British Museum: a Late Roman mosaic
Romans in Britain · Learning resources