MOLD INSTRUCTIONS:
Prepare the Molds
Mold release is required for the removal of the finished piece. There are commercially available mold release agents available but we have found that simple light vegtable oil works great. Simply fill a plant misting sprayer and lightly coat the interior on the mold. Another good alternative is aerosol non-stick cooking spray. Please keep in mind that to much mold release will adversely affect the finished product. A light coating is all that is neccesary. If the release puddles simple wipe down with a cloth.
Adding Colorant ( Optional )
To obtain a natural custom look, powdered concrete colorant can be sprinkled in the mold once the release has been added. A flour sifter works great for a light dusting. Utilizing 2 different shades of powdered colorant with produce the most natural looking product.
Colorant also is available in liquid formulas. These are added directly to the wet concrete prior to filling the molds. Follow the manufactures instructions to determine the quantity of colorant to add for a uniform result of your project.
Prepare the concrete mix
( See Concrete formula section )
Fill the Molds
Begin by filling the molds about half full. Upon completion, the molds need to be vibrated in order to completely fill the fine details and release trapped air within the mix. Professional manufacturers utilize commercial vibrating tables but simply bouncing the mold will achieve the same result. Employ a side to side bouncing motion, periodically giving the mold a 1/4 turn. You will begin to see air bubbles rise and break through the surface of the mix. Once you are satisfied the remainder of the mold can be filled. Place the filled molds on a level surface. If the mold you are using is rounded, fill a container with sand and place the mold level into the sand. Try to keep the molds out of direct sunlight or place plastic sheeting over the molds to retain moisture. Approximately 24 hours is needed for the curing process.
Demolding
After the curing process it is time to de-mold. Place the mold upside down and begin pressing the corners. You will hear the concrete releasing from the mold. If you run across a stubborn release, you can gently tap with a small rubber mallet. The finished product will pop from the mold.
Clean-up
Remove any concrete residue from the mold with dish soap and water. Now you are ready to begin the process again.
Mold release is required for the removal of the finished piece. There are commercially available mold release agents available but we have found that simple light vegtable oil works great. Simply fill a plant misting sprayer and lightly coat the interior on the mold. Another good alternative is aerosol non-stick cooking spray. Please keep in mind that to much mold release will adversely affect the finished product. A light coating is all that is neccesary. If the release puddles simple wipe down with a cloth.
Adding Colorant ( Optional )
To obtain a natural custom look, powdered concrete colorant can be sprinkled in the mold once the release has been added. A flour sifter works great for a light dusting. Utilizing 2 different shades of powdered colorant with produce the most natural looking product.
Colorant also is available in liquid formulas. These are added directly to the wet concrete prior to filling the molds. Follow the manufactures instructions to determine the quantity of colorant to add for a uniform result of your project.
Prepare the concrete mix
( See Concrete formula section )
Fill the Molds
Begin by filling the molds about half full. Upon completion, the molds need to be vibrated in order to completely fill the fine details and release trapped air within the mix. Professional manufacturers utilize commercial vibrating tables but simply bouncing the mold will achieve the same result. Employ a side to side bouncing motion, periodically giving the mold a 1/4 turn. You will begin to see air bubbles rise and break through the surface of the mix. Once you are satisfied the remainder of the mold can be filled. Place the filled molds on a level surface. If the mold you are using is rounded, fill a container with sand and place the mold level into the sand. Try to keep the molds out of direct sunlight or place plastic sheeting over the molds to retain moisture. Approximately 24 hours is needed for the curing process.
Demolding
After the curing process it is time to de-mold. Place the mold upside down and begin pressing the corners. You will hear the concrete releasing from the mold. If you run across a stubborn release, you can gently tap with a small rubber mallet. The finished product will pop from the mold.
Clean-up
Remove any concrete residue from the mold with dish soap and water. Now you are ready to begin the process again.