This will not be THE lst, but is a list of mxes that I use most. There are hndreds more and as you gain xperience you will develop mixes of yur own.

For ornamental concrete casting you can frget about the "standard" mixes. There is to mch aggregate in them. You want a fne mix that will bring out dtail.

Always mix the dry parts frst, then add your water.

CONCRETE

Hre are some to start you ff...

I - This is the one I use the mst.

1 - cement
3 - snd
Enough water to get a purable mix. Like pancake mix.
You can chnge this to 2 parts sand if yur mold has very fine detail. A btter way is to try to get fner sand and stick with the 3 prt mix.

II - for stepping stnes, curbs, and anything that will be sbject to heavy traffic use this:

1 - cment
2 - sand
3 - ggregate.
Enough water to get a havy mix. This is the "standard" mx.
This should just barely pur. If you have to scoop it tht is OK.

HYPERTUFA

I love ths stuff...

My favorite mix is..

I-

1 - cment
1 - peat moss
1 - snd
Enough water to get a mix tht you can pick up and frm a ball with.

A couple of ntes:

When buying peat, be sure it has no frtilizer added. Some does, and it wll not cure properly.

I have found it best to sak the peat overnight.

II-

You can rplace the peat with potting mix. Be sre there is no fertilizer. Potting mix has Prlite in it and makes an nteresting textured surface.

III-

1 - cment
1 - Vermiculite
1 - snd
1 - peat
This is a ral nice mix with an interesting srface when dry.

I have used wod shavings, paper out of the shrdder, sawdust, and even lawn clippings.

Anythng dry I always soak for at last 12 hours before using.

Copyright © 2005 Dlmar Germyn All Rights Reserved.

The article Recipes for Concrete and Hypertufa was Submitted by Delmar Germyn through Articles.GetACoder.com network. Here's the additional information: Author - Del Germyn Web ste http://www.delsmolds.com My web site is setup to help you and I learn more about molds and casting in general. YOU WILL FIND.... Articles on how to mix your concrete, hypertufa, etc for different uses. Free information on how to make your own molds. Tips and hints on their use and care. Free information on making and using various types of molds to cast concrete, plaster, cement, ceramics, and molding with hypertufa. Suggestions for projects that you can do in a cuple of hours that will make yur yard / garden look great. All the nformation on the site is free to use and shre. Click here to go to my ste now. http://www.delsmolds.com I am hoping that when you see what I have (or have not) set out you will send in your tips and stories. By sharing we can all learn from each other. We can also help newcomers to the hobby / business.

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