Instructions
Stepping Stones, Edging & Bird Bath Bowl

Items Needed:
*History Stones mold
*60 lb bag  Concrete  Mix-- makes apx. 5 stones
*Mixing tub or wheelbarrow
*Mixing tool, i.e. small shovel
  or garden hoe
*Lubricant (WD40, vegetable oil cooking spray --  or a mold release)  
*Water

*  Prepare the molds using a lubricant or a mold release.  This will help in removing the casting from the mold later and may extend the life of the mold itself. 

*  Mix the concrete according to the instructions from the concrete manufacturer, mixing a small amount of water at a time until you achieve a consistency that is well mixed, and is thick, not runny; similar to the consistency of crunchy peanut butter. 

1.  Begin by pouring only about 1/3 of the mortar or concrete mixture into the mold. 

2.  Gently shake and tap the bottom and sides of the mold to eliminate all air bubbles.  Continue by pouring the mixture in small batches stopping each time to shake and bounce out the air bubbles.  When filled, the top of the concrete/mortar should be flat and even. 

3.  Keep the mold in a dry area to cure for 24 to 48 hours on a level surface in moderate temperature and out of direct sunlight.

Gently turn the mold upside down onto a soft surface, like grass for example, and pull sides away very gently from concrete and tap lightly on the back.

Do not walk on your stones for several days to make certain the mortar is set all the way through the stone.
Unmold StoneFilling MoldsApplications & General Tips

*Add concrete colorant to the concrete mix (purchased in home improvement stores near the concrete/mortar)


*Paint stones with outdoor quality paints (we like the DecoArt Patio paints which can be found at any craft store)


*Concrete stains are beautiful, and provide the most natural, interesting finish

*Personalize some of your stones by  inserting seashells, stones, children's handprints, etc., into the "back" on top of the concrete. 

*Stencil “welcome”, names or favorite verse.

*Use plaster of paris instead of mortar for indoor items!  It sets up in a matter of minutes, and can be painted.