Concrete for a desktop, anyone done this or similar?

[norton]

Hi guys,

I'm looking to make a new desktop to sit on the singer sewing machine legs I'm currently using.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a311/ihatesissycars/10A44341-B26E-4DC5-914D-2FBEF8055FE1.jpg (http://s14.photobucket.com/user/ihatesissycars/media/10A44341-B26E-4DC5-914D-2FBEF8055FE1.jpg.html)

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a311/ihatesissycars/5B9F58AC-D00D-45CD-8E33-1B7DDE44F48A.jpg (http://s14.photobucket.com/user/ihatesissycars/media/5B9F58AC-D00D-45CD-8E33-1B7DDE44F48A.jpg.html)

Problem is, I've never used concrete and I've no idea about the mix ratios. There's plenty of premixed concretes and mix ratio info about however these are for building houses etc. They appear to use coarse aggregates which could show through the surface of the concrete however I'm after a smooth slate like finish and no idea what type of mix would achieve this.

Help!

[SteveH1]

For making a slab a course aggregrate is going to be stronger than a sand mix
If it was me i would make a mould out of mdf and seal it with pva glue so the bottom of the mould will be the top of the table this will get the smoothest results
Then mix the concrete to the required mix and add to the mould and smooth over
then band the outside of the mould to try get the air out
this will be the biggest problem with trying to get a smooth to getting the air out
You will also need to rum rebar through it for strength

Google diy concrete counter top

[RichardH]

why not use a bit fireplace marble instead?

[norton]

For making a slab a course aggregrate is going to be stronger than a sand mix
If it was me i would make a mould out of mdf and seal it with pva glue so the bottom of the mould will be the top of the table this will get the smoothest results
Then mix the concrete to the required mix and add to the mould and smooth over
then band the outside of the mould to try get the air out
this will be the biggest problem with trying to get a smooth to getting the air out
You will also need to rum rebar through it for strength

Google diy concrete counter top

That is pretty much my plan but using melamin faced board instead of mdf. I'll go wit the coarse aggregate, maybe I'll even cheat and by a premixed bag. I'll post up my results once I've buggered it up.

[norton]

why not use a bit fireplace marble instead?

It'll be even heavier, more expensive and harder to work at home. I like th elook of the concrete counter tops too.

[vmax1974]

You could make a form and use resin as it would be far lighter than concrete but could be made to look the same just my thoughts

[norton]

I did consider using resin but, kerr ching.