How to Create Concrete Molds

You can make a series of decorative concrete objects with a concrete mold.

An impressive handmade concrete sculpture can be made with an uncomplicated mold process. The mold can be used over again for a series of sculptures, which could command a prominent locale in the garden or on the patio. The mold-making process is appropriate for children, who will be amazed to find their clay sculptures transformed into a piece of garden art that could be given to a grandparent for a memorable holiday or birthday gift.

Things You'll Need

• 1 lb. air-dry clay
• Latex mold solution found at craft stores
• Large empty yogurt container
• Serrated knife
• Plastic bucket
• Wooden spoon
• 1 lb. quick-set cement

Instructions

1. Create the desired sculpture with the air-dry clay, making a sculpture that will fit inside the yogurt container. Let the clay dry for 24 hours.

2. Place the clay sculpture in the yogurt container. Mix together the latex mold solution according to the manufacturer's directions. Pour the mold solution over the clay sculpture, covering it completely. Let the solution set for one hour.

3. Pull the entire mold from the yogurt container. Cut the mold in half with the serrated knife. Pull the clay sculpture from the mold.

4. Mix the cement with water in the plastic bucket, adding small amounts of water until the cement is the consistency of pudding, stirring with the wooden spoon.

5. Fill both mold recesses with the wet cement. Press the halves together and place the entire mold back into the yogurt container.

6. Set the cement for 24 hours and pull the mold from the yogurt container. Separate the halves to reveal the completed cement sculpture.

References

• "Art Fun!"; Kim Solga; North Light Books; 1997
• "The Ultimate Crafts Compendium"; Publisher Joanna Lorenz; Hermes House; 1998