LOML (the master gardener) and I (aka. whipping boy/ labor) are evaluating serveral ideas for hardscaping our garden. Like many, we're on a rather tight budget so we tend to either make the things we want, or at the very least, DIY the project using purchased materials. We are fairly accomplished DIY'ers, as we designed and build most of our own home ourselves. We're definately not opposed to hard work - as long as the results are as expected.

My question is about realistic expectations regarding non-commercial concrete molds for things like flag stone wall veneers, slate pavers, ballistrads and caps. Do any provide the advertised results? Do they last long enough to produce more then a half dozen pieces before they fall apart? I've seem many attempts at this by fellow DIY'rs, and I honestly don't think any look very good. Some look downright awful. When asked, the defects were always do to some flaw in the mold itself, the instructions, or lack of guidance.

So I guess what I'm asking is ...any real success stories out there? What should I be looking for in concrete molds? I'm not opposed to buying a commercial mold/stamps but i'm sure it won't be as cost effective to go this route for a single job.

Your thoughts?

Tim