Carving Concrete Stepping Stones

By Karen Gilliam and Kathy Mitchell

Recipes

 

Fine Sand Mix

This mix is excellent for normal, sturdy stepping stones. The use of fine sand eliminates hitting small rocks when you are carving. It is very important to sift the dry ingredients. Add the water a little at a time and mix well until you get a final consistency which stays clumped when squeezed tightly in your hand.

  • 1 part Portland cement (sifted)
  • 3 parts sifted, fine sand
  • Approzimately 1/2 part water
 

Vermiculite Mix

This mix is lighter weight and easier to carve than fine sand mix. The trade of is stones are not quite as sturdy and it is a little more difficult to mix. Add the water slowly to the dry ingredients so that the vermiculite does not separate and float up. Mix to a consistency which barely oozes water when squeezed tightly in your hand.

  • 1 part Portland cement (sifted)
  • 2 parts vermiculite
  • Approximately 1 part water

Safety

It is important to remember that the key component of concrete is silica. If inhaled over a long period of time, silica can cause respiratory disease problems, particularly in the lungs. Usa a high quality dust mask at all times when mixing and handling the dry components of these mixes. Also wear the dust mask at all times when you are sanding, drilling, or anything else that creates dust from the concrete. If you use the same mask again, store it in a sealed plastic bag (ZipLocTM) to prevent it from collecting normal dust. Do not ever share your mask with anyone else.

Always wear high quality vinyl or latex gloves to protect your hands from caustic chemicals in cement and from abrasions.

Concrete draws water so be sure to apply hand cream after completing your work for the day as your skin will tend to dry out.

Wear clothing that can withstand dirt and abrasion. This is a messy hobby.

Be mindful of potentially hurting your back by lifting heavy bags of cement, sand, and your work pieces. Wear a back brace, if necessary and always use your legs to lift, not your back.

Goggles or safety glasses are necessary to prevent eye injury.

 
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