When you think of DIY, concrete is not likely the first thing that comes to mind. However, concrete is surprisingly easy to work with for a wide variety of DIY projects. Whether you want to create purely functional additions to your home or fun, industrial-style decor, there are DIY concrete projects for you.
Here are some great suggestions for concrete projects to try:
Many homeowners would agree: you can never have too many drink coasters. A custom set of concrete coasters also makes a clever gift idea for anybody on your list.
For this concrete project, use a plastic cup or lid as a mold for the coasters. Once they’re set, you can customize them with paint or concrete stain for added aesthetic appeal. Glue foam dots to the bottom to protect your surfaces from scratches.
You can create concrete planters in any shape or style. They make perfect cache pots or containers for houseplants, succulents and air plants.
For a sleek, modern vibe, customize your concrete planters with metallic paint to balance out the rustic aesthetic. Use geometric shapes, stripes or polka dot patterns to make them truly unique.
Custom candleholders for tea lights are simple to make and to customize. You can use a wide variety of containers for a mold, depending on what shape you’d like your candleholder to be. Individual cylinder candleholders can use plastic cups, while a single concrete piece for multiple candles might use a large rectangular box.
One inspiring idea is to use lace or mesh on the inside of your mold to add texture. Finish off your candleholders with metallic paint or keep them plain for a charming and rustic aesthetic.
Does your yard or garden need a pathway? Instead of spending a fortune on expensive flagstone, try making your own DIY stepping stones with concrete. Use a plastic tray or bucket lid to make quick and simple circular molds, or build wooden box molds for other shapes.
Add concrete stain for a colorful twist, or even glass beads and mortar for a whimsical pathway.
The list of possible DIY concrete projects is practically endless. For larger projects, consider making a concrete fire pit or your own concrete countertops. However, to get started, these ideas are perfect for exploring the possibilities of concrete crafting.
Lana Harris is a Chicago native who is a second-generation real estate professional. She was introduced to real estate at a very young age while attending open houses with her mother who is a broker. She honed her skills assisting in property searches (back in the thick, Multiple Listing Service book days,) and using map reading skills to help plan property tour sequencing. Lana’s love of working with people and delivering strong customer service led her to the retail sector, where she developed her management skills at MC Sports, Ann Taylor, and Adidas. She and her husband moved to Utah in 2008 to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains, and she began her real estate career here in 2015. Most recently, she was a VP of sales for a large team; she thrives on challenges and is determined to overcome obstacles to achieve results for her clients. Lana and her husband enjoy their three large dogs, skiing, camping and paddleboarding.
