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Pathmate: Pathways Made Easy

Easy Step-by-Step Instructions for Creating Your Own Pathway and Patio Stones with Pathmate molds and Odjob Mixer

So, you’ve finally grown tired of that boring backyard, that drab, dull patio? Wanna shake things up a bit? Yearning for a bit of individuality, a signature look that is all your own? Now you can, inexpensively, with Pathmate Molds and the ODJOB Mixer. It’s easy, it’s fun and it’s inexpensive! You can personalize every stone you make. We’ll show you how. You can transform that hum-drum backyard or pathetic patio in no time; take a weekend or take a month! You can go at your own pace, completing a section at a time.

1. What You Need: Materials To Get Started:

Odjob Mixer – can mix 60 pounds of concrete in 30 seconds
Pathmate Mold Maker – several styles available
Pre-mixed Dry concrete
Water
Trowel

2. What You Do: Preparation:

Pathmate Molds can be used on any relatively flat surface. You will get the best results by clearing any sod and leveling your working surface first. This is important to make sure your stones won’t crack later. Ideally, you’d like the stones about ½ to 1” below the sod level for easy and safe mowing. Plan out your job and then set your Pathmate where you want to start.

Mixing Concrete: each Pathmate mold requires one 60 pound bag of concrete. Add 3 quarts of water to the Odjob Mixer (two capfuls) and the bag of pre-mixed concrete. Seal the lid and roll for 30 seconds. If you require more water, add one half cup at a time until you have a consistent mix.

3. How You Do It: Filling The Mold

When your concrete is mixed, simply pour directly from the Odjob Mixer into the Pathmate cavities. Fill the cavities you want to use, and then smooth the surface with a trowel.

Removing the Mold: Let the concrete set for about one minute before removing the mold. Give the mold a slight twist and lift the mold clear of the concrete.

4. Finishing Up: Personal Touches

After removing the mold, smooth the edges with a trowel. You can create a variety of finishing surfaces with your trowel, such as circles, slices or other designs in the concrete. Sprinkle sand on top for more texture. If you want to add color to your yard, simply add some cement dye (available at your local home and garden centre) during the concrete mixing process.

Get the kids involved! Add seashells, polished glass, tile, or tiny mirrors. Create a mosaic, place the name of each family member on a stone, add Chinese characters, or children’s handprints. There is no limit to what you can create!

Sweep soil, sand or small pebbles into the spaces to fill the gaps between your castings or place dainty and colorful plantings such as candytuft or blue-fescue between the spaces to add a natural touch.