How to Faux Bois in Concrete

Line your mold with a heavy-duty trash bag. Use masking tape to hold the bag in place on the outside of the mold so it doesn't shift during construction.

Cut metal masonry lathe to the size and shape of your mold, using wire cutters. Push the lathe into the mold and form it to shape. The lathe adds strength to the finished faux bois structure.

Combine one part Portland cement mix with three parts builder's sand in a 5-gallon bucket. Add 1 tablespoon of nylon masonry fibers or dried peat moss for every quart of Portland cement used.

Mix water into the cement mixture 1 cup at a time until the mixture is thick enough to hold its shape but thin enough to smooth into the mold evenly.

Apply the cement to the inside of the mold with a trowel, making the initial layer approximately 1 inch thick. Use your hands to press the cement mixture to the sides of the mold if necessary, such as when making hollow planters.

Cure the cement for one hour uncovered. Cover with a damp piece of burlap after the hour is over and allow it to cure for 24 hours.

Remove the burlap. Apply a second 1-inch layer of cement mix over the initial application. Allow to set up for one hour then replace the damp burlap covering.

Remove the burlap after 12 hours. Carve the wood grain design into the still-soft concrete. Wire brushes, screwdrivers, nails and dull knives make suitable carving and texturing tools.

Cover the cement with damp burlap once the interior carving is complete. Mist the burlap with water once or twice daily so it doesn't dry out. Allow the concrete to cure for three days.

Turn the mold over gently and remove the concrete form from inside. Smooth a 1/2-inch thick layer of concrete over the outside of the piece. Allow it to cure for one hour before covering it with the damp burlap.

Carve the faux bois design into the exterior of the piece after 12 hours. Cover the exterior again and keep the burlap moist for one week. Remove the burlap and begin using your new faux bois piece.