DIY Concrete Stamping

Design Decisions

• First decide what design of stamp to use and where to use it. Stamps can be made by creating a mold with mold compound and two-part urethane.

  You can avoid this extra step by visiting a concrete supply store or a general home improvement store for ready-made stamps and inspiration. Once you have a design, plan the layout before you mix the concrete so you know exactly where you'll start and finish.

Tools and Concrete

• All that is needed for a small- to medium-sized project is a release agent--a non-stick spray for the stamp--a trowel and concrete. The best mix for a stamped floor, according to Fu-Tung Cheng in his book, "Concrete at Home," is six to six-and-a-half sacks of cement and 3/8 of an inch pea gravel per cubic yard. Discuss your plans with a professional at the concrete supply store. He will recommend the best mix and advise you if a retarder or accelerator is necessary for your climate. One other tool to consider is pigment if you are planning to add color to the mix.

  For large projects, consider hiring a professional to do the job.

Technique and Finishing

• The technique for stamping is straightforward. Lay the concrete and trowel smooth. Apply the release agent at the rate recommended on the label, making sure the entire surface is coated. Lay and stamp the mats, carefully aligning them so they are perfectly positioned, then walk or hand tamp the mats, pressing all the way down. Continue stamping, working rapidly so the concrete doesn't harden. If the concrete hardens, use a rubber mallet to push the stamps down. After you are finished with the stamping, cover the area with plastic and wait until the concrete starts to cure. Spray the surface with a pressure washer, moving the spray evenly over the area. Replace the plastic and allow the concrete to cure for a week, then apply sealer.