A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion Hobbies, Crafts and Creativity Painting or Stain Cement cast of leaf

I had planned to use cement stain to color my cement leaf cast. Since the stain is $23 a gallon and I would need at least 5 colors I am looking for a less costly paint or stain method. Has anyone used a product I found called patio paint? It was recommended that the cement leaf cure for 30 days before applying color. Then apply a sealer over the color. I would like to do the leaf like the stained glass coleus plant I have. Two shades of green, creamy yellow and peach. The veining is burgandy. Any suggestions from members who have actually painted cured concrete/cement? Thanks.

I've painted cured cement with patio paint and it didn't stick. Supposedly you need to give it a special acid wash first.

You can prime it wth Zinnser123 primer first. Then after painting, and after the leaf is completely dry/cured clesr coat the whole thing. Or else moisture will seep right through it and push the paint off. Unless you dont mind re-painting every year.

oh wait. Or if the leaf isnt done yet you can try a fresco approach. While its still quite wet make a thin wet tub of cement and mix some artists pigment in with it to actually color the cement and paint the colored cement on the base leaf.

Wrennie, that's a good idea.

Herbalyn, where did you get your idea from? I saved an article from, I think, Better Homes & Gardens. I'll look it up tomorrow and see if it gives any suggestions for staining concrete. But seriously, the fresco approach makes sense. You might want to score/etch your leaf first to make sure it holds the fresco. Just a thought, no experience.

The directions for sand casting a birdbath from a large leaf came from Garden Gate Magazine. Oops! Just noticed a blurb on the directions that Garden Gates website has info for those interested in painting their sand casting.

Appreciate the suggestions.