Making a concrete elephant ear bird bath is a fun DIY project that allows you to create a unique and decorative backyard focal point. Elephant ear plants have large, heart-shaped leaves that lend themselves perfectly to being shaped into a birdbath. When combined with decorative concrete, you can make a birdbath that looks like a giant elephant ear leaf filled with water. This easy project only requires a few materials and some time to allow the concrete to cure.
What You’ll Need
Here are the supplies you’ll need to make a concrete elephant ear birdbath:
- Elephant ear leaves and stem
- Quick-drying concrete
- Concrete coloring powder or liquid (optional)
- Container to mix concrete
- Water
- Plastic drop cloth
- Disposable gloves
- Vaseline or cooking spray
- Large plastic garbage bag
- Duct tape
- Bowl or container for shaping mold
- Trowel or scoop
- Decorative rocks or stones (optional)
Choosing the Leaf
The most important supply for this project is the elephant ear leaf. Choose a healthy, mature leaf that is at least 10-12 inches long. The leaf needs to be strong and sturdy enough to hold the weight of wet concrete. Avoid leaves with holes, tears or thin spots.
If you don’t have an elephant ear plant, you may be able to find suitable leaves at a local nursery or home improvement store, especially during summer months when they are abundant.
Making the Mold
Making a mold is the first step in creating your concrete birdbath. Here are the steps:
- Clean the elephant ear leaf thoroughly by scrubbing off any dirt. Pat dry.
- Trim the stem so just 1-2 inches remain attached to the leaf.
- Lay out a plastic drop cloth in your workspace.
- Place the leaf top side down on the drop cloth. Spray or rub petroleum jelly around the edges to act as a release agent.
- Cut open a large plastic garbage bag along one seam so it opens fully. Place it over the leaf.
- Wrap the bag tightly around the leaf, folding in the sides. Seal the open seam with duct tape to keep it closed.
- Find a bowl, bin or other container larger than the leaf to shape the mold. Press the wrapped leaf down into the bottom of the container, forming a bowl shape.
- If needed, tape down the sides of the plastic wrap to keep the leaf securely in place.
The leaf is now ready to be used as a mold for the concrete.
Mixing the Concrete
For best results, you’ll want to use quick-setting concrete that can cure in about 24 hours. Here are some tips for mixing:
- Mix the concrete per package directions. Start with about 2 quarts of water for a 2.5 lb bag.
- Add concrete color if desired during mixing. Use powder or liquid coloring.
- The mixture should have a thick, pudding-like consistency.
- For extra strength, add an acrylic fortifier or small stones.
- Mix in a wheelbarrow or large bucket. Use a shovel, hoe or cement mixer.
- Work quickly once water is added to prevent setting before molding.
Pouring the Concrete
Once your concrete is mixed, you can pour it into the leaf mold:
- Scoop and pour the concrete carefully into the mold, trying not to splash it onto the leaf.
- Tap the sides as you pour to prevent air bubbles.
- Fill to just below the top of the leaf, keeping the folded over edges exposed.
- Insert decorative rocks or stones if desired for embellishment.
- Smooth and level the concrete gently with a trowel.
Now set the birdbath aside and allow the concrete to fully cure undisturbed. This will usually take 24-48 hours.
Unmolding
Once the concrete has set and hardened completely, you can open up the mold:
- Carefully cut away the plastic bag and peel it off the leaf and concrete.
- Slowly lift the leaf in the concrete out of the container mold.
- Use a knife or shears to trim away remaining plastic and fully expose the edges.
- Rinse the leaf under water and gently scrape off any remaining concrete or vaseline.
- Allow the leaf to thoroughly dry out for 2-3 days.
Your elephant ear concrete birdbath is now ready for display!
Curing and Sealing
There are just a few last steps to complete your birdbath:
- Allow the concrete to continue curing for 5-7 full days before submersing in water.
- Use a concrete sealer to protect and waterproof the finish.
- Sealers come in various finishes like gloss, matte and stone.
- Apply 2-3 thin coats as directed, allowing drying time between coats.
Displaying Your Birdbath
Looking for ideas on how to display your unique elephant ear birdbath? Here are some tips:
- Situate in a flower bed or garden surrounded by other elephant ear plants.
- Elevate on a stand made of decorative stone, concrete blocks or bricks.
- Place small river rocks or marbles in bottom for added interest.
- Accent with potted plants or trailing ivy around the edges.
- Illuminate at night with nearby solar lights or lanterns.
- Protect from harsh winter weather by storing in a garden shed or garage.
Your homemade birdbath is sure to become a fun conversation piece that you, your family and neighborhood birds will all enjoy!
Troubleshooting Issues
Sometimes issues can arise when making a concrete birdbath. Here are some potential problems and solutions:
Issue | Solution |
---|---|
Concrete not hardening | Ensure proper concrete to water ratio was used; keep project sheltered while curing; allow full 72 hour curing time |
Leaf shifts or floats when pouring | Press leaf firmly into mold container; tape down edges of plastic wrap |
Bubbles or cracks in concrete | Tap mold while pouring to prevent bubbles; add acrylic fortifier to make concrete stronger |
Concrete sticks to leaf | Use petroleum jelly on entire leaf surface before molding |
White powdery finish | Use concrete sealer to prevent efflorescence |
Conclusion
Creating a concrete elephant ear birdbath is a fun and rewarding garden project. With a little time and effort, you can make a unique birdbath that adds decorative flair to your outdoor space. The finished product will provide enjoyment for both yourself and local birds for seasons to come. Just be sure to use proper technique and allow for full curing and sealing to achieve birdbath success. Let your creativity shine through in the design and you’ll have a stunning focal point your garden will love!