Building Walks and Patios With a Concrete Mold

Mix concrete mix by hand or machine. Add approximately 3⁄4 of a gallon (2.8 liters) of clean water for each 80-pound (36.6 kilograms) bag of concrete mix and mix thoroughly. If more water is needed to obtain a firm, workable mix, add small amounts at a time until desired consistency is achieved. Don’t exceed a total volume of 41⁄2 quarts (4.2 liters) of water per 80-pound bag. (36.6 kilograms) To achieve colored concrete, add cement color directly to the mixing water. Cement colors are available in red, brown, charcoal and terra cotta.

How to Mix Concrete by Hand

Use a shovel or trowel to fill each cavity of the mold with concrete mix. Level the surface of the concrete with the mold.

After removing the mold, smooth all edges with a trowel until appearance is satisfactory. Place the mold adjacent to the completed section. Rotate the mold 1⁄4 of a turn to interlock, and achieve a more random pattern. Continue this process until your project is completed.

Use concrete sealer to protect your walkway or patio from stains and weathering.