How to Cast Cement Leaves

Combine a 1:1 proportion of Portland cement and sand in a large plastic tub. Wear the face mask and rubber gloves while working. Mix 1/4 cup of liquid acrylic polymer in 1 cup of water. Add water to the cement until it is the consistency of dough.

Dampen the sand enough for it to stick together. Place a 3- to 4-inch mound of sand on a strong, flat work surface to hold the chosen leaf. Make the mound's circumference larger than the leaf. Build up the sand in the center of the mound, if you plan to make a birdbath. The shape of the mound determines the contours of the leaf. Lay plastic wrap over the sand.

Place the leaf on top of the plastic wrap with the face down. The veins on the underneath side of the leaf should face up.

Put on the latex gloves and scoop up handful of concrete. Start from the center of the leaf working out toward the edges. Press the concrete outwardly until it is about 3/8 inch thick at the edges and about 1 inch thick closer to the center. The larger veins of the leaf require a thicker amount of concrete. Continue this process until you cover the entire leaf.

Cover the leaf with plastic wrap. Allow the concrete to cure about five days in a shady spot at temperatures from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is hot, lightly mist the structure with water to slow the evaporation process. As the piece cures, it becomes harder.

Turn the structure over. Scrub off the leaf residue with a wire brush. If the brush scratches the surface, allow the leaf to cure a few more days.

Make a color wash using outdoor acrylic paint and water. Cover the surface with the paint wash, allowing it to run into the crevices. Wipe away any excess paint on the flat surfaces with a sponge. Allow to dry overnight.

Apply the concrete sealer, according to package directions. Allow the sealer to dry a couple of days and set the structure outdoors