Step by Step
CONCRETE FOR BEGINNERS UNDERSTANDING CEMENT (CONCRETE) A STEP-BY-STEP MESH PROJECT 1. When creating a three dimensional structure using cement, begin by building the basic form of the structure. You can do this by carving up a piece of expanded polystyrene, foamboard or Styrofoam. Alternatively, you can build the basic form up from pieces of taped together cardboard or corrugated plastic.
2. Next, wrap the basic form in a steel mesh – chicken wire, hardware cloth or expanded mesh – and tie it in place with binding wire.
3. Once the mesh is firmly attached, apply the concrete by hand in successive layers, 0.5cm to 1cm in thickness. To ensure adhesion between layers, mark the surface of each layer with a ‘tooth’ finish before applying the next coat.
4. An important tip is not to cover the entire structure in concrete in one go. Rather do one side, let it set for 12-24 hours, cover it in plastic to prevent water loss and cracking, and then flip it over and begin on the other side.
5. Once the final structure has dried, use sandpaper, emery paper or corundum paper to file the structure to a desired finish.
6. Keep the piece slightly damp for a week before the final finish and sealing.
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2. Next, wrap the basic form in a steel mesh – chicken wire, hardware cloth or expanded mesh – and tie it in place with binding wire.
3. Once the mesh is firmly attached, apply the concrete by hand in successive layers, 0.5cm to 1cm in thickness. To ensure adhesion between layers, mark the surface of each layer with a ‘tooth’ finish before applying the next coat.
4. An important tip is not to cover the entire structure in concrete in one go. Rather do one side, let it set for 12-24 hours, cover it in plastic to prevent water loss and cracking, and then flip it over and begin on the other side.
5. Once the final structure has dried, use sandpaper, emery paper or corundum paper to file the structure to a desired finish.
6. Keep the piece slightly damp for a week before the final finish and sealing.
www.ppcimaginarium.co.za
