G’day mates! Tired of those dull, run-of-the-mill vases that clash with your home’s vibe? We know the feeling – searching high and low for that perfect concrete vase to spruce up your digs.
It’s a real pain when you can’t find exactly what you’re after, especially for home decor.
We get your frustration. We’ve been in the same boat and decided to have a crack at solving the problem ourselves. After a fair bit of research, we discovered that creating a concrete vase is easier than you might reckon.
In fact, a quick-set cement mix can set in just 15 minutes, making this a speedy DIY project. Our guide will show you how to create a stylish concrete vase step by step. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to craft a unique piece that’ll fit your style perfectly.
Key Takeaways
- Quick-set cement mix sets in just 15 minutes, making concrete vase creation a speedy DIY project.
- Upcycled plastic milk bottles and cups serve as effective molds for shaping the vase.
- Adding decorative elements like metallic paint, textures, or embedded objects personalises each vase.
- Proper mixing, molding, and finishing techniques ensure a smooth, bubble-free concrete vase.
- The Bunnings Workshop community offers support and inspiration for various DIY home improvement projects.
Materials Needed
We’ll need a few key items to start our concrete vase project. Let’s gather our supplies and get ready to create something unique.
Concrete mix
Concrete mix forms the foundation of our DIY vase project. We use quick-set cement for this task, which allows us to create a stylish flowerpot in just 15 minutes. This rapid-drying mixture gives us the freedom to shape and mould our vase quickly, without waiting hours for it to set.
Our concrete blend consists of cement, sand, and gravel. We adjust the ratios to achieve the perfect consistency for our vase. A smoother mix works best for intricate designs, while a coarser blend suits rustic styles.
We always wear gloves and a mask when handling the dry mix to protect our skin and lungs.
Concrete is the canvas of modern DIY enthusiasts.
Adding water to the dry ingredients activates the chemical reaction that hardens the concrete. We stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring no dry pockets remain. The resulting paste should be thick enough to hold its shape but wet enough to pour easily into our chosen mould.
With our mix ready, we’re set to create a unique, long-lasting vase for our favourite plants.
Mold or formwork
We’ll need a mold or formwork to shape our concrete vase. For this project, we recommend using a plastic milk bottle, like Paul’s Farm House bottle. We’ll cut the top to our desired height, creating a simple yet effective mold.
This upcycled container offers a smooth interior surface, perfect for achieving a sleek finish on our vase.
Our formwork doesn’t stop there. We’ll also use a plastic cup as an inner mold. This cup will create the hollow centre of our vase, allowing space for water and stems. The combination of these everyday items gives us complete control over the size and shape of our concrete creation.
We love how this method turns common household objects into useful DIY tools.
Decorative elements (optional)
We love adding a personal touch to our concrete vases. Decorative elements can transform a simple vase into a unique piece of art. Our favourite option is to spray paint the bottom with metallic paints.
This adds a stylish flair that catches the eye. Another great idea is to add a small stripe down the base of the vase. It’s a subtle detail that makes a big impact.
For those who want more, we suggest trying different textures. Pressing leaves or fabric into the wet concrete creates interesting patterns. Small pebbles or glass beads can also be embedded for extra sparkle.
These touches make each vase one-of-a-kind. Plus, they’re perfect for showing off our beautiful Aussie flora.
Step-by-Step Guide
We’ll guide you through the concrete vase-making process. Our step-by-step instructions will help you create a stylish and unique flower pot for your home.
Mixing the concrete
Mixing concrete is a crucial step in creating our stylish vase. We’ll guide you through the process to ensure a smooth, bubble-free mix.
- Pour quick-set cement into a bucket. Follow the package instructions for the right amount of water.
- Add water slowly while stirring. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
- Mix thoroughly with a trowel or mixing paddle. Aim for a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Test the mix by lifting some with your trowel. It should hold its shape but still be pourable.
- Pour the mix into your chosen mould. Fill it about three-quarters full to allow for expansion.
- Tap the sides of the mould gently. This helps remove air bubbles trapped in the concrete.
- Add more concrete if needed. Top up to just below the rim of your mould.
- Smooth the top surface with your trowel. This ensures a flat base for your vase.
- Let the concrete set as per the product instructions. This usually takes 24 to 48 hours.
- Check for any cracks or imperfections. Fill these with a bit of leftover mix if needed.
Shaping and molding
We’re ready to shape our concrete vase. Here’s the moulding process with some handy tips.
- Apply WD-40 to the inside of the milk bottle and plastic cup. This stops the concrete from sticking.
- Pour the mixed cement into the milk bottle. Tap it gently to remove air bubbles.
- Place the plastic cup in the centre of the cement-filled bottle. This creates the hollow for your vase.
- Add weights into the cup to hold it down. This keeps the cup in place as the concrete sets.
- Tap the bottle again to settle the concrete. Use a ruler to smooth the rim for a neat finish.
- Leave the mould to set for 24 to 48 hours. The time varies based on your concrete mix.
- Once set, carefully remove the outer milk bottle. Gently wiggle it to loosen the concrete.
- Pull out the inner plastic cup. You might need to cut it if it’s stuck.
- Sand any rough edges with fine-grit sandpaper. This gives your vase a smooth, polished look.
- Add any final decorative touches. Paint, etch, or leave it raw for a modern industrial look.
Finishing touches
We love adding those final touches to our concrete vases. These small details make our creations truly unique and personal.
- Sand the surface: Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth any rough spots. This step creates a sleek finish and preps the vase for painting or sealing.
- Apply a sealant: Brush on a concrete sealer to protect your vase from moisture. This also enhances the natural colour of the concrete.
- Paint designs: Get creative with acrylic paints. Add patterns, geometric shapes, or freehand designs to make your vase pop.
- Attach decorative elements: Glue on beads, shells, or small tiles for extra flair. These additions give your vase a one-of-a-kind look.
- Create texture: Use a wire brush or etching tool to add subtle patterns to the surface. This technique adds depth and visual interest.
- Add a metallic touch: Apply gold or silver leaf to parts of your vase for a luxe feel. This works great for accent areas or rim details.
- Experiment with stains: Try concrete stains in various colours to alter the vase’s hue. This method allows the natural texture to show through.
- Polish the surface: For a glossy look, use a concrete polisher. This step brings out a shine and smoothness in your finished piece.
After these finishing touches, your vase will be ready for display. Let’s move on to some tips for showcasing your new creation.
Conclusion and Display Tips
We’ve demonstrated the process of creating a stylish concrete vase. This DIY project adds a modern touch to any room. Place your new vase on a shelf or table to display your handiwork.
Fill it with fresh flowers or artificial plants for a pop of colour. Concrete vases work well in groups, so consider making a few in different sizes. Your homemade vase will impress guests and spark conversations about your creative skills.
Explore More DIY Projects
We love getting our hands dirty with DIY projects. Our Bunnings Workshop community offers a wealth of ideas for home improvement enthusiasts. From clever storage solutions to garage makeovers, there’s an abundance of inspiration.
We’ve seen members transform old furniture into stunning pieces and create unique garden features. These projects not only save money but also add a personal touch to our homes.
DIY isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way to make your house truly feel like home.
Our community thrives on sharing tips and tricks. Whether you’re new to DIY or have years of experience, you’ll find support and guidance. We encourage everyone to try different projects and expand their creative boundaries.
With each new skill mastered, we grow more confident in our abilities to take on bigger challenges. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something with our own hands is unbeatable.
FAQs
1. Is free delivery available for concrete vase-making supplies?
Many online retailers offer free delivery for DIY concrete vase supplies. Check with local stores or e-commerce sites for shipping options when ordering materials.
2. What basic materials do I need to create a stylish concrete vase?
You’ll need concrete mix, a mold, release agent, mixing tools, and decorative elements. Most suppliers provide free delivery for bulk orders of these items.
3. How long does it take for a concrete vase to cure fully?
Concrete vases typically need 24-48 hours to set initially. Full curing takes about 28 days. During this time, avoid moving the vase to ensure proper hardening.
4. Can I paint or seal my DIY concrete vase?
Yes, you can paint or seal your concrete vase after it’s fully cured. Use concrete-specific paints or sealants for best results. Some suppliers include these in free delivery offers.