Heidi Norton
Making a concrete incense holder is a fun and creative project that can add a personal touch to your living space. With the right tools and materials, you can design a unique and functional holder that reflects your style and enhances your environment. This project is also an opportunity to explore your creativity and experiment with different textures, colours, and sustainable materials. You can make your own mould using materials like silicone, melamine wood, plastic, or cardboard, or purchase a ready-made mould online. The process involves mixing concrete and water at a 1:4 ratio, releasing air bubbles by tapping the mould, and, if desired, adding liquid cement colour or acrylic paint to the mixture. After curing for at least 24 hours, you can de-mould your creation, sand it, and seal it with a water-based sealer. Finally, add bumpers or a cork sheet to the base to protect surfaces.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Cement, water, paint, sealer, cardboard, toothpick, rubber mallet, liquid cement color, acrylic paints, polyacrylic sealer, natural materials like wood, stone, clay, metals like copper or brass, colorful beads, glass, pebbles, sand, moss, bamboo, cork, recycled metals, reclaimed wood, old jars, cans, broken ceramics |
| Mold | Sauce cup, silicone mold, melamine wood, plastic container, cardboard |
| Process | Mix cement and water per manufacturer's specification, add liquid cement color, release air bubbles by tapping mold, let it cure for at least 24 hours, loosen edges and demold, sand, paint and seal |
| Customization | Add personal flair, aroma, and creativity; choose materials and textures for desired style, add color, incorporate symbols or patterns, personalize with inscriptions |
| Sustainability | Choose biodegradable or recyclable materials, repurpose and upcycle old items, use non-toxic finishes |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a mould
When it comes to choosing a mould for your concrete incense holder, the possibilities are endless. The mould you select will depend on the size and shape you desire for your incense holder. For a small and simple object, a cardboard mould is a great option. After the concrete has cured, the cardboard can be easily peeled off. Alternatively, you can purchase a silicone mould kit from Amazon or create your own mould with melamine wood or any plastic container.
If you're feeling creative, you can make a mould in the desired shape using cardboard. This is a cost-effective and customisable option. However, if you prefer a ready-made solution, purchasing a silicone mould kit is a convenient choice. These kits provide a reusable and durable mould that can create consistent incense holder shapes.
For those seeking a more natural look, consider using a mould made from wood or stone. These materials can impart a rustic and earthy vibe to your incense holder. If you opt for wood, look for reclaimed pieces or those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure sustainability.
Another option is to use metal moulds, such as copper or brass. These metals can give your incense holder a modern and sleek appearance. Metal moulds are also durable and long-lasting, ensuring multiple uses. If you want to add a playful touch to your design, consider incorporating colourful beads or glass into your mould for a sparkling effect.
Remember, the mould you choose will significantly impact the overall look and feel of your concrete incense holder. Whether you decide to create your own mould or purchase a ready-made one, ensure that it aligns with your desired size, shape, and aesthetic for your concrete incense holder project.
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Mixing concrete
To make a concrete incense holder, you'll need to start by mixing concrete. The specific ratio of cement to water will depend on the manufacturer's specifications—in this case, a 1:4 ratio is used, but be sure to check the directions for the product you're using. You want the consistency of the mixture to be similar to pancake batter. If you'd like to add a personal touch, you can include liquid cement colour in your concrete mix. However, be cautious with the amount of colourant you use, especially if it's acrylic paint, as too much can affect the composition of the mixture.
Once you've achieved the right consistency, it's time to fill your chosen mould. You can use any kind of mould for casting, such as a silicone mould, a plastic container, or even cardboard if you're crafting a small and simple object. If you're using cardboard, make sure to oil the mould so that it can be easily removed later. After filling the mould, it's important to release any air bubbles by tapping on all sides and corners. If you're working with a larger mould, you may need to pound it with a rubber mallet instead.
At this stage, you can create a hole for the incense stick using a toothpick. Tape and oil the toothpick, insert it into the centre of the cement, and remove it after the concrete has cured. Now, let the concrete cure for at least 24 hours. To remove the mould, loosen the edges with a knife, especially if you're using cardboard, which can be peeled off.
Finally, you can sand the concrete incense holder to smooth any rough edges and remove dust with a clean towel. You can leave the holder as-is or personalise it with paint. To finish, apply a water-based clear sealer to protect your creation.
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Releasing air bubbles
To release air bubbles, start by giving a few taps on all sides and corners of the mold. If you are working with a larger mold, you can use a rubber mallet to pound on it and help release the air bubbles. Additionally, using a vibrator or hammering the mold can help move the mortar towards the area being hit, pushing air and water bubbles towards the opening of the mold. This technique is especially useful for molds with deep undercuts, where air and water bubbles are more likely to be an issue.
Another way to address air bubbles is to increase the amount of mortar in the mixture. A higher mortar content will make the material more fluid and provide a venting system for air and water bubbles to escape. It also allows larger pieces of aggregate to move more easily during vibration, releasing any trapped air.
Finally, if you are working with a concrete mixture that has a low water-cement ratio, extend the mixing time. This will help to eliminate voids by forcing air and water bubbles away from the aggregate. Additionally, a low water-cement ratio requires an increased vibration period to ensure proper release of air bubbles.
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Adding a personal touch
Making your own concrete incense holder is a fun and rewarding project. You can easily add a personal touch to your creation with these simple steps and ideas.
Firstly, decide on the shape and size of your incense holder. This will determine the mould you use. You can use any kind of mould for casting, from a simple sauce cup to a silicone mould or even cardboard. If you want a unique shape, you could try using melamine wood or any plastic container.
To add a personal touch to the design, consider adding some liquid cement colour to your concrete mix. This will give your holder a unique hue that reflects your taste. Just be mindful of the amount of paint you use, especially if you're using acrylics, as too much paint can affect the composition of the mixture. Alternatively, you can paint the holder after it has cured. You can get creative and choose any colour you like or even leave it as it is in its natural cement colour.
Another way to personalise your incense holder is by adding some texture or pattern to the surface. You can experiment with different techniques, such as stamping or etching, to create a unique design. You could also try embedding small items or creating a collage effect with concrete powder and water. Get creative and use items like coins, beads, shells, or even small toys to create a unique, three-dimensional design.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can try creating a custom mould. This allows you to make a truly one-of-a-kind shape for your holder. You can make your own mould using materials like silicone or cardboard, or you can purchase ready-made moulds online.
Finally, don't forget to seal your creation. You can use a water-based sealer to protect your holder and give it a nice finish. A polyacrylic sealer will add a subtle shine to your concrete incense holder.
With these simple tips, you can easily add a personal touch to your concrete incense holder, making it a unique and special creation that reflects your style and creativity.
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Finishing and sealing
Once you have made your concrete incense holder, it is important to finish and seal it properly to ensure it is protected and durable. Here is a step-by-step guide to finishing and sealing your concrete incense holder:
Sanding and Cleaning:
Before you begin the finishing process, it is important to sand the entire piece to ensure a smooth surface. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and gently sand all surfaces of the holder. Once you have finished sanding, use a clean towel or cloth to remove any dust or debris that may have settled on the holder.
Painting:
You can choose to paint your incense holder to add a personal touch and enhance its appearance. Select a paint that is suitable for concrete surfaces. You may use any colour you prefer, or even leave it unpainted if you prefer the natural cement colour. If you do decide to paint it, be sure to allow the paint to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Sealing:
The sealing process is crucial to protect your concrete incense holder from moisture and stains. It will also give your holder a smooth and shiny finish. Choose a sealer that is specifically designed for concrete or cement, and make sure it is non-toxic and eco-friendly. A water-based clear sealer or a polyacrylic sealer are good options, as they will give your holder a slight shine. Carefully apply the sealer with a brush or roller, following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the sealer to dry completely before handling your holder.
Adding Protective Elements:
To protect the surface on which you will place your concrete incense holder, consider adding bumpers or a cork sheet underneath. This will prevent scratches or damage to the surface and provide a non-slip base for your holder.
Caring for Your Holder:
Your concrete incense holder is now ready to use and enjoy! Remember to handle it with care and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals. With proper care, your handmade concrete incense holder will last for a long time.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need cement, water, paint, a sealer, and a mould.
You can use any kind of mould for casting. You can buy a silicone mould or make one with melamine wood, a plastic container, or cardboard.
The ratio of cement to water depends on the manufacturer's specifications. For instance, "Cement All" uses a 1:4 ratio, which should resemble the consistency of pancake batter.
After filling the mould, tap on all sides and corners to release air bubbles. If you are casting a bigger item, pound the mould with a rubber mallet.
You can personalise your concrete incense holder by painting it with any colour or pattern of your choice. You can also add a meaningful inscription, such as a favourite quote or a significant date.
