Mixing the same mortar mix were ready to float the walls inside the shower/tub area for tile. We chose a 6″ ceramic tile with butt joint’s or no grout lines. Placing them in line on the floor I can layout the exact dimensions for the float. IE a 60″ tub wall to start , 6″ tiles , 6×9=54″ and we need to end up with 58″ finish giving us 2″ to float or 1″ per side. That gives us 4″ in make up, so 6 tiles equals 54″ and 1 tile gets cut twice for a 2″ corner piece on both sides to make up the total flat level float of 58″. So we mark the top rim of the tub with tape and a line we can see and float straight plumb up, with an accurate level. Shim sticks or pads enables us to be accurate here for floating, using plywood or 2x strips sunk into the mortar mud and scrapping off across the excess with a straight edge until perfection is fruition.

Your mortar mix should have a slump strength of 8″ or so. Meaning it can sit in a pile about this high before it’s own weight will cave itself and fall. Too wet or not wet enough. Play with it a little and you can tell. Trowel it up and on then scape if off. Soon it will start taking shape and a smile will take over your face.