Hi, The last post (before mine) that tamahlee has posted on the older post for 'Question on new sphere-concrete ice cubes' has some very good instruction but thought it might be a good idea to start a new thread on this subject.

Here's how I did mine: My DH and I have been working on three(3coats/layer)Spheres, so far so good although we did have a problem with the last one getting some cracks with the first coat -well lets start from the beginning. Blow up you ball(don't under or over inflate to much) place the ball on a very large (weighted) bowl/bucket, with the top half sticking out, we used a 14"-16" plastic 'wallyworld' beach ball. DH didn't think the crete would stick on this shiny of a surface so first we put the strips of fiber mesh tape on the ball this tape has a some what sticky surface (the correct way is to put your mud on first then press in the fiber mesh). Then I added a layer of "Fortified Thin-set Mortar"-this stuff is very sticky so if you plan to use this stuff use an old metal spatula to smooth it on. Then while still very tacky take your gloved hand and smooth the surface, a small foam paint brush works great also. Cover the ball with plastic wrap so it don't dry to quickly, as this will cause cracks. When it starts to look/feel dry lightly mist. Important keep damp by misting. After 1-or 2 days you can carefully turn the ball over then do the other end. My DH thought for strength for the 2nd. coat to use a coat of Portland so this is what we did. Third coat the Thin-Set Mortar. We did plan to make only one, but the beach ball still in good shape, we made 3 lol. One is for a fountain on a bird-bath stand, one (open front) a mister/light on a short stand and the third one will be just a Sphere on a short post or basin. Still have some wet sanding to do on all three then must decide to paint, stain or leave as is? Even though the last one cracked some on the first layer of mix on the upper half I was able to save this layer by wet misting and adding another light coat of the Thin-Set mix before this first(damaged)coat was completely dry.

Hope to have some pics. to post soon. Wendy