Mixing

• Different styles and even different brands of grout have different mixing ratios with water. Follow the instructions on the packaging exactly. The goal is to end up with a mix that is the consistency of thick mud or cake frosting. Mix by hand with a 4-inch knife in a bucket. Don't over-mix. Get it smooth and consistent, then let it "slake'' for 10 minutes in the bucket, so the components meld. Re-stir it, then apply it to the granite.
  
  

Application

• Apply the grout with a grout ``float,'' which is a flat rubber trowel. Scoop the grout out of the bucket with the trowel and apply it directly to the spaces between the tiles, running the flat edge of the float along the surface at a 30-degree angle to press it into the lines while squeezing it off the face of the granite. Completely fill the spaces. Allow the grout to set in the lines for a minute, then wipe down the surface gently with a damp sponge. Use the wide side of the sponge and lay it completely flat on the surface as you wipe, to avoid digging the grout out of the lines.
  
  

Finishing

• An hour after applying the grout, you'll notice a white film forming on the tile. Wipe it down gently with your damp sponge. Repeat every few hours until the film no longer forms. Let the grout set for two days. Apply grout sealer over the lines using a very thin artist's brush. Have a wet paper towel handy to carefully wipe off any excess sealer that gets on the tile face, using the corner of the paper towel.