Concrete Cat

July 1, 2010

I have been experimenting with techniques in grinding and polishing since I began working with concrete as an interior finishing product. This has resulted in many test pieces laying around the shop but it has also helped me hone some very unique skills in grinding and polishing that I have not seen perfected by other craftspersons yet.

I like the varied grinds because it can be subtle with only a few bursts of deeper more extreme grinding. I tend to shy away from a full deep grind because it can look a bit too much mike quartz and be over bearing.

Varied grinds also add a lot of depth to a piece. To have a fully uniform polished piece or uniform ground pieces I find is a bit bland. But adding just a touch of grinding to reveal some sand and fine aggregate really deeps the colours and textures of a concrete counter. It is a way to add unique design to a counter top with out going to extreme. From a distance you may not notice any variation at all but upon closer inspection you are drawn into the different texture and colour.

Varied grinds work on just about anything made of concrete. I have personally done concrete countertops (counter tops?), concrete vanities, concrete fireplaces, and concrete furniture all with varied grinds in the Edmonton area. They have all turned out great and the grind is loved by clients.