Pathmate:
Pathways Made Easy
Easy
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creating Your Own Pathway and
Patio Stones with Pathmate molds and Odjob Mixer
 So,
you’ve finally grown tired of that boring backyard,
that drab, dull patio? Wanna shake things up a bit? Yearning
for a bit of individuality, a signature look that is all your
own? Now you can, inexpensively, with Pathmate
Molds and the ODJOB Mixer. It’s easy, it’s
fun and it’s inexpensive! You can personalize every
stone you make. We’ll show you how. You can transform
that hum-drum backyard or pathetic patio in no time; take
a weekend or take a month! You can go at your own pace, completing
a section at a time.
 1.
What You Need: Materials To Get Started:
- Odjob
Mixer – can mix 60 pounds of concrete in 30
seconds
- Pathmate
Mold Maker – several styles available
- Pre-mixed
Dry concrete
- Water
- Trowel
2.
What You Do: Preparation:
Pathmate
Molds can be used on any relatively flat surface. You will
get the best results by clearing any sod and leveling your
working surface first. This is important to make sure your
stones won’t crack later. Ideally, you’d like
the stones about ½ to 1” below the sod level
for easy and safe mowing. Plan out your job and then set your
Pathmate where you want to start.
Mixing
Concrete: each Pathmate mold requires one 60 pound bag of
concrete. Add 3 quarts of water to the Odjob Mixer (two capfuls)
and the bag of pre-mixed concrete. Seal the lid and roll for
30 seconds. If you require more water, add one half cup at
a time until you have a consistent mix.
3.
How You Do It: Filling The Mold
When
your concrete is mixed, simply pour directly from the Odjob
Mixer into the Pathmate cavities. Fill the cavities you want
to use, and then smooth the surface with a trowel.
Removing
the Mold: Let the concrete set for about one minute before
removing the mold. Give the mold a slight twist and lift
the mold clear of the concrete.
4.
Finishing Up: Personal Touches
After
removing the mold, smooth the edges with a trowel. You can
create a variety of finishing surfaces with your trowel, such
as circles, slices or other designs in the concrete. Sprinkle
sand on top for more texture. If you want to add color to
your yard, simply add some cement dye (available at your local
home and garden centre) during the concrete mixing process.
Get
the kids involved! Add seashells, polished glass, tile, or
tiny mirrors. Create a mosaic, place the name of each family
member on a stone, add Chinese characters, or children’s
handprints. There is no limit to what you can create!
Sweep
soil, sand or small pebbles into the spaces to fill the gaps
between your castings or place dainty and colorful plantings
such as candytuft or blue-fescue between the spaces to add
a natural touch.
Copyright
2006 www.OutdoorDecor.com
Kay
Stone, OutdoorDecor.com Staff Writer
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