How to Color Concrete Blocks as Swirl

Cover any area, including wall or trim, you don’t want exposed to the stain with heavy paper and painter’s tape. Slip on a pair of rubber gloves, safety goggles and a dust mask before mixing together 1 part TSP, or trisodium phosphate, and 5 parts water.

Dampen a plastic scrub brush with the TSP mixture and wash the concrete surface to remove any dirt, grease or stains. Once the concrete is adequately cleaned, rinse away the TSP mixture thoroughly with a damp kitchen sponge.

Allow the concrete to dry completely before preparing the acid-etching product according to the manufacturer’s instructions in a large plastic bucket. Keep your rubber gloves, safety goggles and dust mask on while mixing and working with the acid stain.

Dampen a paintbrush in the mixture and, beginning at one corner of the room, apply the acid-etching compound in a swirling motion. Flick or twist and turn your wrist to create the pattern.

Continue to apply the acid-etching compound in this manner until the entire concrete surface is covered. Allow the compound to set for at least one hour before examining your work. If you aren’t satisfied with the color or design, apply a second layer of product with the paintbrush.

Allow the final layer of acid-etching compound to dry for at least 24 hours before removing the heavy paper and tape and stepping on the concrete surface.