How To Make Your Own Statue

Let’s say you happen to be the type of individual who enjoys Do it yourself and has a garden or entertainment area that needs a little something extra. Sure, you could purchase one or two statues to add life and charm to your area but where's the fun in that.

“Why not make my own statues?” you ask… “It couldn’t be that hard… could it?”

Well, like plenty of other things in life, statue creating may either be a quick weekend job or a complicated masterpiece… It all hinges on where you let your creative side take you.

Before You Start Your Statue

It’s generally a wise decision to commence any task with a little planning. Go out and have a good look at your garden or area where you want the statue or statues to go. Let your creativity go and picture exactly what statue would suit the spot. Would a Greek style statue fit with the surroundings or even a rabbit or bird? How about something abstract or modern in look? How large should the statue be? How broad can it be?

Also decide on the positioning of the statue so you'll know the type of surface it will mount on. This will influence the kind of base or stand the statue requires.

Making Your Concrete Statue

1. As soon as you have found the item you want to use for your statue, brush or spray a thin, even layer of shellac over it. The shellac is utilized to seal the original object therefore giving the latex mold a better surface finish. (Note - Get authorization before using someone else's statue or item for your concrete statue model).
2. Once the shellac is dry (approx. 2 hours), apply a coating of mold release medium onto the model. Go over it with a soft brush and ensure that the release medium has reached all those hard to get to places. A good release medium to use is Mann Ease Release 200.
3. Blend liquid rubber or latex according to the manufacturer's recommendations and, utilizing a soft paintbrush, entirely coat the model, being sure to reach all those hidden crevices. Once it has dried to a tacky consistency, apply a second coat.
4. Now, leave it to cure (dry) overnight. Really important - Do not leave it in the sun to dry, place it in a shaded area.
5. Once dried, cover the mold with a thick layer of fiberglass or plaster. This will support the latex mold when the concrete is added later.
6. When the fiberglass or plaster has hardened, remove it from the mold in parts without damaging it. Remember, you need this later.
7. Carefully peel away the rubber mold from the object.
8. Prepare concrete in accordance to the manufacturer's recommendations making sure it is mixed to a smooth consistency. You now have the option of adding an oxide colorant if you wish.
9. Reassemble the plaster support piece. Place straps around it to hold it together. Put the latex mold inside of it. Pour concrete into the mold, mixing the mold as you go to avoid air bubbles or pockets forming.
10. Allow the concrete to dry overnight. With care remove the plaster and rubber inner mold.
11. Let your new statue cure for a number of days before painting or moving it.
12. Visit us for more ideas and the best prices

Building your own personal concrete statues can be challenging, but, at the same time it's a fun and highly rewarding pastime or hobby.