Monday, October 7, 2013

How to Paint the Concrete Statues in a Garden

Painting a concrete garden statue allows you to customize the look of your garden art. You can use paint to add faux aging to a concrete statue for a more antique look. When painting a concrete garden statue, it is important to start with a clean surface and to finish with a protective sealant. This will keep your paint looking new despite its exposure to the elements. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

    1

    Attach a jet spray nozzle to a garden hose. Turn on the hose and spray the entire surface of the concrete statue to remove any dirt or grime.

    2

    Let the statue dry for 12 hours, then brush it off with a soft-bristled scrub brush to remove any remaining dust.

    3

    Apply a coat of latex exterior concrete stain to the surface of the statue with a paintbrush. Select a stain that is a shade of brown, or one that is black or white. Follow the package directions for application and drying time. Once the stain dries, lay the statue flat and apply a coat of stain to the bottom of the statue. Let it dry completely and stand the statue back up.

    4

    Rinse the paintbrush and let it dry.

    5

    Apply a base coat of exterior latex concrete paint to the entire surface of the statue with a paintbrush. Apply the paint in even strokes that overlap. Let the paint dry according to the directions on the can, then apply one more coat. Base coats in shades of black, brown or white are the most effective.

    6

    Apply the final coat of paint in whatever color latex exterior concrete paint you select. Apply it in the same fashion you applied the base coats. Let it dry for 24 hours.

    7

    Use the paintbrush to apply a coat of exterior latex concrete sealer. Select a sealer that is non-yellowing. Do not paint the sealer onto the bottom of the statue. Let the sealer dry for 24 hours before placing the statue in the garden.