A single bag of Quikrete opens up a whole world of DIY possibilties. In this episode, we experiment with using Star Wars themed ice cube trays to make concrete novelties.

SUPPLIES:

Quikrete Countertop Mix
Available at Home Depot
Quikrete Countertop Mix is about twice the price of normal concrete mix but it’s worth it for detailed, small projects like this. The concrete comes out as smooth as glass and it easier to mix than Quikrete 5000.

Death Star Silicone Tray
Available at Amazon.com



3M Duct Tape
Available at Home Depot

TOOLS:

Husky 8" Long Nose Pliers
Available at Home Depot







Husky Box Cutter
Available at Home Depot

INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1: Cut the mold
Use a box cutter to cut a small X at the top of the mold. Cut a 1 inch diameter hole in the bottom of the mold.





STEP 2: Insert a plastic ballpoint pen in the X
The soft rubber mold will seal itself around the pen.





STEP 3: Close and tape the mold
Use duct tape to securely seal the mold.





STEP 4: Fill the mold with concrete
I used a little more water than usual so that the concrete would settle into each detail of the mold.





STEP 5: Vibrate
To ensure that the concrete settles into every crevice, vigorously tap/vibrate the filled mold to release any trapped air bubbles.





STEP 6: Remove the mold
Peel off the mold and use a lighter to soften the plastic pen before pulling it out with the long nose pliers.









I also used a Silicone Star Wars Stormtrooper mold to make handy little cabinet pulls, magnets and wall hooks for hanging USB wires.





























Good luck making your own Star Wars Death Star vase and Stormtrooper knick knacks and please email or tweet photos to @benuyeda or ben@homemade-modern.com. For more detailed instructions, dimensioned drawings and different variations of the project, check out our soon-to-be-released book.

---