The series covers everything from materials and techniques to sources and hazards. Uncured concrete is difficult to handle directly. It usually needs some kind of form or structure to control the shape. The dry materials are mixed first.
Water is added to the dry mix.
Applying the mix to a wire mesh will need a drier mix that feels more like clay and stays in place until it sets. Concrete will get somewhat hard after 4 to 12 hours, depending on the mix and temperature, and can be worked with coarse files or carved at this stage. In one or two days it becomes harder still, but it is possible to wet sand to refine the shape. After that it becomes comparable to working with stone. It is best to add layers of new concrete within the first day or two after the initial set, when almost complete bonding takes place, but it is possible to add layers for several days.