The “Air” Apparent
Choose an area that is well ventilated. While it is fine to have a fan going while you cut glass or arrange pattern pieces, you will need to turn it off while pouring the dry concrete mixture into your mixing container. The dust is superfine, and moving air will stir it up even more. Wear a dust mask.
The Table
Table height is an individual thing based on your height. If you’re using a workbench or a regular table, the height will be predetermined for you. But if you’re tall, you might want a higher surface. Just remember that you’ll be standing most of the time (I’ve never been able to cut glass while sitting in a chair or on a stool). And you’ll be bending over when you pour. At least I find it necessary to work in these positions. Men’s center of gravity is in their shoulders or upper body, and they can pour a bucket of cement into a mold on a table much easier than a woman. Women’s center of gravity is in their hips, so pouring is more of a challenge. At least it is for me. With time, you will find what works best for you. But in the meantime, save your back and find a comfortable height for your work surface.
Indoors or Out?
The majority of us will probably be working indoors most of the time. When it comes time to pour the concrete, I always move to an area of the basement where I can clean up easily, or to the garage where a little spill would not be a catastrophe, or outdoors when the weather is nice. Of course, the great outdoors may be where you conduct most of this stepping stone business anyway, in which case, avoid windy days.
