Make Your Own Paversby Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger 07 Feb 2008 05:32 AM This spring, I think one of my projects is going to be to put in some walking pavers in our backyard. The yard is sloped and can get a bit slippery for the kids, when they walk down to it. Pavers might be a nice way to create a little walk that is practical and attractive at the same time. I started pricing out pavers. They can run from $4 a piece to $10 a piece, depending on the style. Since I think I might need at least ten of them, that expense could really add up. Next, I thought I could browse the craft stores for one of those kits that allow you to make a paver. You can put your child's foot or hand prints in the paver or add some little stones or mosaic tile pieces that can be purchased separately. Those kits usually only provide you with enough materials for one paver, and they can cost more than buying a ready-made paver. It makes much more sense to make the pavers completely from scratch. All I really need is a form, some concrete, and some form of decoration or items to make impressions in the paver. So what can be used for a form? There are many options, depending on the size and shape that I would like. I think I am going to go with five gallon buckets. They are easy to come by and can be free, so it shouldn't be a problem to do all ten pavers at the same time, if I wish. I could also build a frame out of scrap wood in the shape of a square, octagon or something else. But, I think the buckets will provide a nice-sized round paver. As an added bonus, I could mix the concrete directly in the bucket. I'll have it at a depth of about two inches. To make it fun, I think I'll have the kids put their foot prints in the pavers. When curing concrete, be sure to mist the surface as it dries to prevent cracking. When it is completely cured, in about three days, turn the pavers on to a soft surface, such as the lawn, to reduce the chance of them breaking. Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here. Related Articles: Upgrade Your Small Kitchen Appliances for Free Habitat for Humanity HomeStore Do What You Can and Save Money Learn more about Mary Ann Romans  Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat. Relevantfrugal tags User Comments No comments on this article yet. Be the first to comment! Community Tags backyard, frugal, garden, home, thrifty Discuss this article
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