How to Cast Concrete Tiles in Coarse Sand

Clear a small, flat area of your yard, driveway or sidewalk for creating your concrete tile. Choose a location out of the way of traffic, pets and children. Sweep off any soil or debris from your flat surface.

Spread out a sheet of clear plastic to protect the underlying surface. Empty a 50-pound bag of coarse sand over the plastic. Dampen the pile of sand with a fine spray of water from your garden hose. Use your hands to form the pile of sand into a shape slightly wider than the size of your desired tile. Press the sand pile firm and level.

Create a shape in the center of your sand pile that matches the desired shape of your concrete tile. For example, use a large bowl for a round pattern or a box for a square or diamond-shaped pattern. Create an indentation in the center of your shape by digging out the sand in the center with a small hand shovel to the desired depth of around two to three inches deep. Press the underlying sand firm with your fingertips.

Cut a piece of plastic sheeting to fit over the sand mold you created. Lay the plastic sheeting over the mold.

Mix the concrete in a five-gallon bucket, following the manufacturer’s mixing instructions. Add concrete pigment, if desired. Pour the mixed concrete into your mold. Let the concrete set until slightly firm and insert any embellishments, such as colored tiles or glass marbles, according to your preferred design. Let the concrete tile cure for the amount of time recommended on the package instructions.

Remove the tile from the coarse sand mold by lifting the edges of the plastic sheeting. Peel the sheeting from the back of the tile and remove the hardened tile. Use the mold to make additional tiles of the same size and shape.