Episode 119 - Our Home
Segment #2 - Concrete
Activity - Concrete Candle Holders

HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

• Concrete mix
• Water
• Bucket
• Rubber gloves
• Masking tape
• Cardboard
• Marker
• Scissors
• Cardboard paper towel tube
• Tea light candles

LET'S GET STARTED:

1. To create the mold that will hold the mixed concrete, draw desired shape onto cardboard or make a pattern by drawing design onto a piece of paper first.   Trace the pattern onto the cardboard. This will be the base of the mold. Cut out.
2. For the sides of the mold, cut strips of cardboard that are 2-inches high and long enough to fit around the entire base of mold.
   
   TIP: Drag the strips along edge of table to loosen the cardboard so that it will easily make curves.
   
3. Tape the side strips around and to the base of mold with masking tape, making sure to cover all seams to prevent concrete from leaking out. It may help to cut the long strip into 2 pieces in order to get it easily around your mold base. Reinforce the seams well where the 2 pieces meet.
4. To create the candle recess part of the mold, cut a 1-inch piece from a paper towel tube. Use masking tape to completely cover one open end of the tube piece.   Place remaining open end of tube piece in the center of the mold base. (The covered taped end of the tube piece should be facing up). Securely tape the tube piece onto the mold base. (A good trick for doing this is to wrap a piece of masking tape around the open edge of the tube piece. Cut little snips along the edge of the tape to make fringe. Flare the fringe pieces out and then push the fringe side   down onto the mold base. You can add extra pieces of tape to make sure it is secure and seams are all covered.
   
   Mix and Pour :  
5. Mix up a small batch of concrete following the directions on your bag.   You may need to add more water or less water - experiment. Cover hands with rubber gloves and mix until it is like lumpy gravy or a milk shake.
6. Pour or scoop concrete mixture with glove covered hands into your mold. Fill nearly to the top. Pat until smooth.
7. Let dry until solid.   It may take 24 hours or more.
8. Pop concrete candleholder out of molds. (You may need to rip away the cardboard mold). Place a tea light candle into the recess left by the paper towel tube. Light and enjoy!

NOTE: An adult should always be present when lighting and burning candles.

OTHER ACTIVITIES FROM THIS EPISODE:

Create a Carpet
Hopscotch Carpet Squares
Aquarium Carpet
Concrete
Concrete Candle Holders
Outside-Inside Meatloaf
Outside-Inside Meatloaf
Your Name
Name Plaques