How to Form Concrete
Concrete is a versatile material that can be used in forms and molds to create a diverse range of structures from very large buildings to garden containers to small decorative objects. Depending on the complexity and size of your project design, working with concrete can be a do-it-yourself job or may require professional assistance and tools. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Concrete mix and water
- Container for mixing
- Trowel
- Mold
- Rubber or nitrile gloves
- Sandpaper
Instructions
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Prep Mold
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1
Take a hollow object like a garden pot and line the object with plastic wrap. This will serve as the mold you will fill with concrete. Prepare a second smaller vessel wrapped in a layer of plastic wrap and set aside. This smaller vessel will be used as an interior mold. The smaller vessel should be just a little smaller than the larger vessel; for example, an inch or two less in diameter--depending on how thick of a mold you desire. It should also be as tall as the larger vessel.
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2
Put on your gloves and mix concrete with water in the mixing container with the trowel until it reaches the consistency of thick oatmeal and it will set slightly when pushed up the sides of the container mold.
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3
Scoop the concrete into the exterior mold with the trowel and press it into the sides to a thickness of at least 1 inch or more as desired. Place the interior mold in the center of the wet concrete to hold it in place and allow the concrete to harden until it is firm but not completely dry; this usually takes 24 hours.
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4
Remove the interior and exterior molds and plastic wrap. You now have a concrete garden planter. At this point you can sand or scrape away any imperfections.
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5
Allow the concrete to fully cure in a protected location for up to 10 days depending on the size and thickness of your design before you move, fill or wet the object.
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Tips & Warnings
Concrete can be very harsh on the skin due to its high alkalinity and rough texture. Always wear hand protection to prevent burning, excessive drying and scrapes.
