How to Mix Mortar

A mortar mix can vary depending on the users requirements. It can be made to suit colouring or to strength. If the mortar is to be used on a brick wall or block wall and which is not near to existing work then a colour match isn’t a priority. However, colour consistency should be maintained on all facing work and this can be achieved by measuring all quantities, perhaps with a bucket. This how to shows you the basic technique.

Photo Credit: Designlazy.com

Steps

1- Find yourself a make-shift sharpening tool. Basically you’re looking for a dull, flat, yet hardened edge. If at home, the best option is the underside rim or either a ceramic plate or a ceramic mug. If out and about, the edge of a car window (wind it down first!), an emery board from a first-aid kit, the spine of another knife, or a smooth rock or pebble (smoothed by water) will work. 

2- Hold the flat of the knife at a 20° angle (the blade edge of the knife touching the material, the back of the knife raised very slightly). Sweep one side of the blade across your chosen tool from base to tip, maintaining the 20% angle as you do so

3- Repeat the process. Repeat the sweeping process but using the other side of the knife.

4- Alternate sides of the blade for the final two or three sweeps. Take one side of the blade and run it across the tool, then turn the blade around and hit the opposite side. Repeat this pattern several times.

Tips

To finish, wet the tool for a couple of final sweeps