Q&A for How to Mix Cement

It depends on the application. If you're going to do something with a concrete finish, you'll generally use three parts concrete and one part water. When you're mixing and pouring the concrete, you’re gonna have to add more water or it's not going to mix properly. If you're doing a concrete foundation for a retaining wall or a post, the concrete can be more wet because the finish is not going to matter.

Clean your tools as soon as you finish mixing or pouring concrete. Don't let it sit! This can help you prevent damaging your tools.

Put on safety glasses, a protective mask, and long jeans when you're going to be mixing and pouring concrete. This will protect you from the fine dust particles.

I would recommend mixing half a wheelbarrow of cement for this project. If that's not enough, you can mix another half a wheelbarrow full.

No, you can use the large stones in place of gravel. Keep in mind that you always need to add aggregates, but the size of the stones can vary.

This varies greatly depending on your type of cement and your region. It may take a few days for cement to dry completely. Stay off the cement altogether during the drying time and put up a barrier to prevent others from walking on the cement.

Not really. You could find a different container -- it just has to be strong enough and big enough, like a wheelbarrow. The wheelbarrow has the additional advantage of being mobile, so you can move your mixed cement if you need to without breaking your back.

No. Cement needs stone to mix properly. Even for small jobs, do not neglect stone.

You could, but there are lots of factors which will effect the durability of the finished job. I would consider a leveling compound if appearance or slight unevenness is the problem under light to medium load condition.