From Library Journal
Decorated concrete figures have recently moved out of the realm of eccentric folk art and roadside religious "grottoes" into mainstream yards and gardens. Here are projects by several designers for making mosaic stepping stones, birdbaths, carved planters, and art figures. The projects are grouped by skill level and offer step-by-step instructions on how to mix concrete, make molds, and embed mosaics. The finished products are heavy, year-round installations intended to stay where they are placed. This is a good, practical book for public library craft and garden collections. Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.


Book Description
A celebrated teacher has gathered the tried-and-true techniques used by sculptors and folk artists, and tailored them for low-tech surroundings. Work with molds; form over armatures; model or carve with concrete; and treat concrete surfaces with mosaics, embedded objects, incising, and coloring. For dazzling outdoor embellishments, craft a Birdbath, Little Lady Fountain, and more. Twenty-five projects in all.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Strong, versatile, and amazingly easy to work with, concrete is the ideal medium for outdoor art and long-lasting garden projects. And it doesn't cost a lot or require special equipment; everything you need is right at the local home improvement center. A celebrated teacher has gathered the tried-and-true techniques used by sculptors and folk artists, and tailored them perfectly for low-tech surroundings and personal expression. Work with molds; form over armatures; model or carve with concrete; take advantage of technical advances to develop lighter, stronger structures; and treat concrete surfaces with mosaics, embedded objects, incising, and coloring. For dazzling outdoor embellishments, craft Garden Critter Stepping Stones, a Birdbath, Little Lady Fountain, and a jazzy border. Every project will open up new creative horizons!

SYNOPSIS