I use acid stains 75% of the time on my concrete pieces and the results are great. The easiest way of obtaining information is on the internet. I found several businesses that sell online small "sample kits" that are adequate in amount of stain, color variety & costs. Acid stains are pricey so look around - the average gallon cost $55-$75. That is why I was so happy to find companies selling these "kits". There are tutorials as well to be found when searching these websites. Some the of better sites for product & instructions are decosup.com; rareearthlabs.com; concrete-stain.com; acid-stain.com . Use Google with key words acid stain concrete cement, etc, I'll try & forward some photos of my pieces in the near future in case you're interested. Gotta learn how to attach photos with this type of message. Good Luck!
~~ Vicki from the Low Country (SC)

hey Vicki, thanks for this advice, it was really helpful. Are the pieces you are staining solid cement or hypertufa? Would love to see some of your work if you figure out how to post!

I have been experimenting lately with my own acid stain. I mix about a teaspoon of cast iron powder (from an artist pigment place) and 20% acetic acid "horticultural Vinegar" and let that sit in a sealed bottle for at least 4 hours.

You could probably do the same thing with regular vinegar and rusty nails.

cast iron powder (from an artist pigment place) - does this product have a name

I assume you apply after the tufa has cured a bit?

Sinopia

Yes you apply after the concrete has cured a bit.

Hi Rojellio,

Thank you for the info. I have a couple of questions if you don't mind.

Do you use the Vinegar straight or add any water? Have you tried any other types of colorant in the vinegar? I presume you leave the mix on the concrete for a period of time and then rinse? How long do you wait before rinsing? Can this method be used on fully cured concrete?

Any info is greatly appreciated.

A

What do you mean by cured a bit. I have some leaves that are 1-2 weeks old. Is that cured enough. What happens if you paint or stain to early???