I make and sell concrete home accessories, but if you’d like to familiarise yourself with concrete and create beautiful décor, this blog might be perfect! Concrete vases are a fantastic way to add a modern, minimalist touch to your home. Whether you prefer a smooth, polished look or a more textured, rustic finish, I’ll show you how easy it is to make your own. In this DIY guide, I’ll walk you through the process step by step, using simple materials to craft a stylish concrete vase. Let’s get started!
Materials You’ll Need
Before getting started, gather the following supplies:
Concrete mix (choose a fine or coarse mix depending on your desired texture)
Water
Mixing container, preferably plastic
Silicone stirring spoon or drill with a mixing attachment
Moulds (one larger for the outer shape, one smaller for the inner cavity)
Cooking spray or mould release agent
Sandpaper (optional for smoothing the surface)
Protective gloves and mask
Sealer (if desired for a waterproof finish)
Tip: Concrete with larger aggregates will create a more textured surface, while a fine mix creates a smoother look.
Step 1: Prepare Your Moulds
Choose two moulds that will create the shape of your vase—one for the outer form and one for the inner cavity. Standard and budget-friendly options include plastic bottles, food containers, or silicone moulds.
Spray the inside of the outer mould and the outside of the inner mould with cooking spray or a mould release agent.
Position the smaller mould inside the larger one, ensuring it's centred.
Step 2: Mix the Concrete
Follow the instructions on your concrete mix packaging, but generally:
Combine the concrete mix with water in a mixing container using the recommended ratio.
Stir thoroughly until the mixture has a thick -dough-like- pourable consistency. If it’s too dry, add small amounts of water gradually.
Step 3: Pour the Concrete
Carefully pour the mixed concrete into the outer mould, filling it halfway.
Insert the inner mould, pressing down gently. If needed, add more concrete around the sides to fill any gaps.
Tap the mould gently to release air bubbles and create an even texture.
Step 4: Let It Cure
Concrete needs time to set properly.
Let the vase sit undisturbed for at least 24–48 hours.
Keep it in a cool, dry place while curing.
Step 5: Remove the Moulds
Once the concrete is fully cured:
Gently remove the inner mould first. If it’s stuck, twist it slightly or use pliers to pull it out.
Carefully peel away or cut the outer mould.
Step 6: Sand and Finish
If you prefer a smooth look, use sandpaper to refine the surface.
For a raw, industrial style, leave it as-is for a rugged texture.
Apply a concrete sealer if you want to make the vase waterproof.
Step 7: Style Your Vase
Now that your vase is complete, you can personalise it!
Paint it with acrylic or spray paint for a pop of colour.
Polish it with beeswax for a subtle sheen.
Pair it with dried flowers, pampas grass, or fresh blooms for a modern aesthetic.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Air Bubbles in the Concrete
Tap the mould after pouring the mix to release the trapped air (unless you prefer a more textured, raw look!).
Use a finer concrete mix for a smoother result.
2. Uneven or Cracked Finish
Avoid adding too much water, as this weakens the concrete.
Cure in a cool, humid place.
3. Mould Sticking to the Concrete
Always use a mould release agent to make removal easier.
DIY Concrete Vase Conclusion
Making your concrete vase is a rewarding DIY project that allows for creative customisation. Whether you love sleek, polished finishes or a rustic, textured look, this guide gives you all the steps to craft a stylish vase for your home.
FAQ:
1. Can I use any concrete mix for this project?
Yes, but the type of mix you choose will affect the final texture. A fine concrete mix creates a smoother surface, while a mix with larger aggregates gives a more textured, raw look.
2. How do I prevent my concrete vase from cracking?
Ensure you mix the concrete properly—too much water weakens it, leading to cracks. Also, let it cure in a cool, shaded area and mist it lightly with water if needed.
3. Can I colour my concrete vase?
Absolutely! You can add concrete pigment to the mix before pouring or paint the vase after it has fully cured. Acrylic and spray paints work well for a custom finish.
4. How do I make my vase waterproof?
Applying a concrete sealer will help make the vase waterproof. Consider placing a small glass or plastic container inside the vase if using it for fresh flowers.
5. What can I use as a mould for my vase?
You can use plastic bottles, food containers, silicone moulds, or recycled cardboard tubes. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the wet concrete.
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