Mosaic Stitches are very versatile and can be used just about anywhere on your canvas.  Some of us like to use the Diagonal Mosaic as a background stitch because it goes fairly quickly and is easy to compensate.  The Diagonal Mosaic Variation is good when you want to add a little sparkle or bead.  When stitching the Mosaic Checker use the same color thread and you will get nice pattern.

Give these a try, you will be very pleased with the results.