DIY Network

Cement Bowls Mold up some cool cement bowls. From "B. Original" episode DBOR-135

When most people think of cement, they think of freeways, sidewalks and other huge structures. But Michele Beschen knows this versatile building material is just as powerful when used on a small scale.

Her cement bowls are an example. Michele Beschen shows you how to use plastic bowls to mold hip cement bowls you can use as outdoor accents or striking indoor containers. Scroll down for her B. Original how-to

Whether you leave them plain...

Or dress them up, cement bowls rock!

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Materials:

2 plastic bowls, different sizes
non-stick cooking spray
cement or mortar mix
water
wheelbarrow
hoe to mix cement
rubber gloves
concrete sealer
primer, paint

• Spray both bowls liberally inside and out with non-stick cooking spray.

• Mix cement in a wheelbarrow, adding water slowly to the dry mix until it's the consistency of cookie dough.

• Wearing rubber gloves, put cement mix into the bottom of the larger bowl. Spread a thick layer of cement up the sides of the bowl (figure A).

• Place the smaller bowl inside the larger one and press down (figure B).

• Smooth out the cement and keep filling the larger bowl around the smaller one. If you have trouble keeping the smaller bowl down far enough in the cement, weight it down with a brick or other heavy object.

• Let the cement dry for an hour, then come back to smooth and shape some more.

• Once the cement is completely dry, unmold it from the bowls. You can sand off the rough edges or leave them jagged if you prefer.

• Seal the bowl with concrete sealer if you want to leave it natural. You also can prime and paint it (figure C).

B. Original and find new ways to use your groovy new cement bowls!