How to Make Concrete Art
- 1). Set up a work table in the shade. You will want the concrete art to dry slowly to avoid any cracks. Make a temporary table with sawhorses and a sturdy piece of plywood if you do not have a strong table available.
- 2). Build a sand mound on the work table that is the same size and shape of your leaf. The sand allows you to mold the leaf as desired. Cover the sand with a layer of plastic that will extend past the size of your leaf.
- 3). Cut a piece of chicken wire the same size and shape as your leaf. You can use a single piece, or several smaller strips.
- 4). Put on appropriate safety gear; the caustic properties of concrete can result in burned skin. You will need a long-sleeved work shirt, waterproof gloves, goggles. Also, wear a dust mask while mixing to keep the fine particles out of your lungs
- 5). Mix concrete. The ratio is generally 1 part water, 2 parts cement and 3 parts sand, although you could purchase a bag of concrete resurfacer that includes cement, sand, additives and polymers that creates a smoother finished product. Only mix the amount you need for your project. A 50 pound bag equals approximately 25 feet of finished concrete art.
. - 6). Lay the leaf face down on the plastic. The veins should be pointing up. Cover with a thin layer of concrete. Create smooth edges on your concrete art sculpture by pushing the concrete out from the center and then pull up the plastic to shape and prevent thin edges.
- 7). Place the prepared piece of chicken wire on top of the leaf. Bend and trim if necessary. Spread another thin layer of concrete over the chicken wire and concrete-covered leaf. Manipulate the concrete edges with a craft stick and the plastic to keep it true to the shape of the leaf and the same thickness throughout.
- 8). Mist with water and then cover with plastic so that the concrete art will cure slowly. Allow to dry until firm for at least 24 hours. Lift the plastic, re-mist and then replace the plastic or use a sheet of burlap for another 12 to 24 hours. Continue for a week or more. Long curing times ensure a stronger finished product.
- 9). Peel the leaf off the concrete when it completely cured. If the leaf is difficult to remove, let it decay for a few days and then rub off with a soft brush.
- 10
Display the finished piece of concrete art on a stand, hang on a fence, or place in a garden as an accent piece.
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