Forming a Concrete Bucket Stool | QUIKRETE: Cement and Concrete Products
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A great way to view and understand your building or repair project before you get started. Find out just about everything you need to know by watching the video below.

Forming a Concrete Bucket Stool

Forming a concrete bucket stool is an easy way to add functional and decorative seating to your home. All it takes is one bucket and a few supplies.


Project Instructions

When working with cement-based products, always wear eye protection and waterproof gloves.

Step 1
Cut the dowel into three 16” long pieces.

Step 2
Fill the bucket with 3 inches of concrete mix.

TIP: Make sure the bucket is clean and dry before opening up the concrete package.

Step 3
Add water and mix until the concrete is the consistency of cookie dough.

Step 4
Shake the bucket and tap with a hammer to release the air bubbles.

Step 5
Once the concrete has settled, place the 3 pieces of dowel in the bucket. Make sure that the dowel pieces are about 1” past the surface of the concrete and let them rest against the sides of the bucket.

TIP: The dowels will serve as the legs, so make sure that they are evenly spaced to disperse any weight that the stool may bear.

Step 6
Wait 20 hours, and then remove the stool from the bucket.

TIP: Bend the sides of the bucket outwards a few times in each direction, to loosen the concrete. Then, pull the stool out by the legs.

Step 7
Sand and smooth the edges with 120 grit sand paper.

Step 8 (optional)
If the legs of the stool are uneven, use construction adhesive to apply the washers and pipe caps.


Shopping List

  • 80lb QUIKRETE® 5000 Concrete Mix
  • 1” Diameter Wooden Dowel 48” Long
  • 5 Gallon Bucket
  • Copper Pipe Caps and Washers (optional)
  • Construction adhesive (optional)
  • Clean Tap Water
  • Hammer
  • 120 Grit Sand Paper
  • Waterproof Gloves
  • Safety Glasses