Hunter introduces the fundamentals of concrete within the context of craft, familiarizing novices with the tools, equipment, mixing methods, and safety precautions used with the most common general-purpose cement, Portland Type I. She moves from a brief history to discussions of aggregates such as pea gravel and marble chips to mixing and finishing, woodworking, and metalworking. Starting with the basic mix, readers will find recipes for 21 varieties, and an initial project: casting a simple bowl. Hunter moves on to flexible molds and various core materials used to produce landscape statuary and concrete columns. The basics of cement carving are covered, as are techniques for texturing the surfaces of outdoor chairs and garden sculpture. Each of 25 projects, advancing from beginning to intermediate and advanced, is explained step-by-step, while color photographs of details and settings enhance the imaginative possibilities suggested in this valuable garden craft volume.

Sherri Warner Hunter, author of the best-selling Creating with Concrete, proves once again that concrete isn't just for sidewalks anymore; it's perfect for the garden too. A selection of 30 beautiful designs suggests the range of this increasingly popular material, and the illustrated instructions make the craft's fundamentals easy to learn. Because the simplest projects come first, beginners can work their way through the book progressively, building on their skills. Novices will have fun making the carved trough, sandcast bowl, and elegant relief panel. More sophisticated projects, including a decorative walkway and polished table, come next, and they'll bring charm to any outdoor space. More adventurous artists can unleash their creativity on a "Garden Guardian" sculpture or water feature.

176 pages. Hardcover with Jacket. 8 1/2" X 10"