Concrete furniture has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s durable, versatile, and can add an industrial edge to any interior design. One way to incorporate concrete into your home decor is by creating a round concrete table top. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience with making a round concrete table top, as well as tips, ideas, pros and cons, and a step-by-step guide.
My Personal Experience
I wanted to create a unique piece of furniture for my outdoor patio area, and decided to make a round concrete table top. I had never worked with concrete before, but I was determined to give it a try. I did some research and watched several tutorials before starting the project.
Overall, the process was challenging but rewarding. It took several days to complete, as I had to wait for the concrete to dry and cure. However, the end result was a beautiful, sturdy table top that I was proud to display on my patio.
Step-by-Step Guide
Materials:
- Concrete mix
- Water
- Mold (plastic or cardboard)
- Trowel
- Sandpaper (coarse and fine grit)
- Sealer
Instructions:
- Create the mold for your table top. You can use a plastic or cardboard circle as a base, and build up the sides with additional cardboard or other materials.
- Mix the concrete according to the package instructions. You want it to be thick and easy to spread, but not too runny.
- Pour the concrete into the mold, spreading it evenly with a trowel. Make sure to smooth out any air pockets or bumps.
- Let the concrete dry for at least 24 hours. Then, remove the mold and sand the edges of the table top with coarse sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots.
- Use fine grit sandpaper to further smooth the surface of the table top.
- Apply a sealer to protect the table top from stains and damage.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
- Choose a mold that is slightly larger than the desired size of your table top, as the concrete may shrink slightly as it dries.
- Add color to your concrete mix by using dye or paint.
- Create a unique design by embedding objects, such as shells or stones, into the surface of the concrete.
- You can also create a textured surface by using a stenciled pattern or stamping the concrete.
- If you’re making a table for outdoor use, add a layer of fiberglass mesh to reinforce the concrete and prevent cracking.
- Consider adding a pedestal or base to your table top, rather than traditional legs.
- Create a set of matching concrete chairs to complete your outdoor dining area.
- Experiment with different shapes, such as oval or square, to create a truly unique piece of furniture.
- If you’re short on space, consider making a smaller table top to use as a side table or plant stand.
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes! Concrete is a forgiving material, and you can always sand down or patch any imperfections.
Pros and Cons
Like any DIY project, there are both pros and cons to making a concrete table top.
Pros:
- Concrete is durable and long-lasting, making it a great choice for outdoor furniture.
- There are endless design possibilities, from color to texture to shape.
- Concrete can add an industrial or modern edge to any interior design.
Cons:
- Concrete can be heavy and difficult to move once it’s set in place.
- The process can be time-consuming and requires patience.
- Working with concrete can be messy and may require special equipment, such as a trowel or mixer.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take for the concrete to dry?
A: It typically takes 24-48 hours for the concrete to dry, depending on the humidity and temperature in your area.
Q: Can I use any type of sealer?
A: No, it’s important to use a sealer specifically designed for use on concrete. Look for a product that is waterproof and UV-resistant.
Q: How do I remove stains from the surface of the table top?
A: Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean the surface of the table top. For tougher stains, such as oil or grease, use a concrete cleaner or degreaser.
My Personal Review
I’m extremely happy with my round concrete table top. It adds a unique touch to my outdoor patio area, and I’ve received many compliments on it. The process was challenging at times, but ultimately rewarding. I would definitely recommend this project to anyone looking to add a personal touch to their home decor.