Recipes for Concrete and Hypertufa.

A short list of my favotite mixes for you to refer to and use.

This will not be THE list, but is a list of mixes that I use most.  There are hundreds more and as you gain experience you will develop mixes of your own.

For ornamental concrete casting you can forget about the "standard" mixes.  There is to much aggregate in them.  You want a fine mix that will bring out detail.

Always mix the dry parts first, then add your water.

CONCRETE

Here are some to start you off...

I - This is the one I use the most.

1 - cement  
3 - sand 
Enough water to get a pourable mix.  Like pancake mix.
You can change this to 2 parts sand if your mold has very fine detail.  A better way is to try to get finer sand and stick with the 3 part mix.

II - for stepping stones, curbs, and anything that will be subject to heavy traffic use this:

1 - cement  
2 - sand  
3 - aggregate. 
Enough water to get a heavy mix.  This is the "standard" mix. 
This should just barely pour.  If you have to scoop it that is OK.

HYPERTUFA

I love this stuff...

My favorite mix is..

I-

1 - cement
1 - peat moss
1 - sand
Enough water to get a mix that you can pick up and form a ball with.

A couple of notes:

When buying peat, be sure it has no fertilizer added.  Some does, and it will not cure properly.

I have also found it best to soak the peat overnight.

II-

You can replace the peat with potting mix.  Be sure there is no fertilizer.  Potting mix has Perlite in it and makes an interesting textured surface.

III-

1 - cement
1 - Vermiculite
1 - sand
1 - peat
This is a real nice mix with an interesting surface when dry. 

I have used wood shavings, paper out of the shredder, sawdust, and even lawn clippings.

Anything dry I always soak for at least 12 hours before using.