Concrete Vase

Let's make a vase out of concrete! These can store flowers or pens and pencils!

Materials and Equipment:

3D printer

Concrete mix

Hot glue stick/ Glue gun

Step 1: Draw the 3D Model in Fusion 360

I drew 3 parallel circles in Fusion 360 and used the "loft" feature to make my design.

Step 2: Print Out the Mold

Print out the mold using a 3D printer.

If you are unfamiliar with 3D printing or do not have access to a 3D printer, any plastic type of mold may be used. Plastic cups or a plastic champagne flute will work well to use as a mold for your vase.

Step 3: Put a Glue Stick Into the Vase Mold

We need a hole for the vase where the items will be placed in. Using a hot glue stick works well for this task. Simply glue the stick to the bottom of the mold or the bottom of the cup. If you would like a larger hole in the vase, you may find another plastic cylindrical item to use.

Also, the mold must have an open bottom in order to pour the concrete inside. Use a drill to open up enough area to be able to pour the concrete inside.

Step 4: Cast With Concrete and Done!

Cast it with concrete. Cement can be found easily at stores such as ACE Hardware and Home Depot for little cost. Most cement products will work.

Most cements follow a ratio of 1 part cement : .35 parts water (by weight). Increasing this ratio will decrease the concrete's strength, but increase its flow. Increasing the ratio to 1:.45 will help in pouring the concrete into this mold. If you do not have access to a balance, eyeing the ratio is okay. Start with your cement and add water until the mixture becomes a fairly viscous liquid. Some cement packaging may give instructions on this step.

Most concreteswill ask you to add aggregate, such a sand or gravel. This is not necessary, as we are working in small batches and want to ensure a smooth finish.

DO NOT USE REUSABLE CONTAINERS AND DRAIN AFTER COMPLETED. Once you have completed the mixing and pouring process, you will need to throw away any excess concrete in the container you have used to mix it. If concrete goes down the drain it will cure inside your pipes and cause your drain to clog.

Most concrete will shrink upon curing. In order to counteract this, place the mold in a damp environment. A humidifier may be used. If there is no access to a damp environment, cover the open top of the mold with plastic wrap.

The vase should cure within 1 day; however, it may need more time than that. Once is has cured you can de-mold your vase. This can be tricky. This may require some force and may require the mold to be broken. Once the vase is de-molded, you can sand it with regular sandpaper to make sure it is smooth.

Now you are done! Put your favorite flower in the vase and enjoy it!