Wet concrete, also called mud, can have a pattern pressed into the mud before it dries. This is called stamped concrete. The design can be just about anything you imagine and you can even add color to it so that it looks more realistic. This paper will tell you all the steps you need to know to make your own designs on preexisting concrete surfaces.
It is necessary to have a rubber concrete stamp. It is possible to buy one with just about any design or pattern or you can create your own. To create your own, you must procure a piece of whatever pattern or design that you want. Seal the side of the sample that you want to make the pattern off of and give the sealant time to dry before beginning the next step.
In an area with proper ventilation, put your sample on a level work space and use shims to make sure that it is completely level. Use an aerosol stamp release on the surface of the sample to make sure that the rubber comes off easily. Prepare the liquid rubber in accordance with the instructions and pour it into the center of the sample. Pour many thin layers of rubber instead of one thick layer for the best results. Release the rubber from the sample when it has set and it is ready to use.
The area that you plan to stamp need to be as level as possible so try to choose wisely. Use a cleaner with a degreasing agent to thoroughly clean the entire area and rinse with plain water. The area needs to dry for two or three days before beginning the next step.
Put a little liquid bonding agent into a plastic paint pan so that it is easily available. Use a rolling paintbrush to spread the agent evenly all over the area. Give the agent enough time to dry so that it is tacky to the touch.
Have some mud prepared and spread it onto the surface that you prepared previously. The mud needs to cover the entire area to a thickness of about three eighths of an inch. Smooth the mud with a trowel. You can begin the next step when the mud is slightly drier, about thirty minutes.
Line your stamp up carefully with one corner of the area. Once it is the way you want it, lay is down steadily into the mud and apply an even pressure to the entire stamp. Remove the stamp carefully and be careful not to slide or tip of stamp when you remove it. Make sure the design is correct and if it is you can continue to stamp the entire surface. If it is not correct, smooth the mud back out and try again. The area will need to dry for several days depending on the size of the are that you stamped.
Plain concrete is a boring and unattractive surface that can be dressed up by stamping it. Nearly everyone can do it and the steps outlined above are easy to do and follow. Whatever surface you have can become a beautiful addition to your home with this simple technique.
