I turned a blank cement slab into a mascot mural!
What started as a plain, vertical cement slab at English Crossing Elementary, is now a bold, bright, cougar the kids get greeted by everyday! I gave it space for photo opportunity - how cute to have a beginning and end school year here, each year!
I’ve worked on textured surfaces before such as asphalt and cement, so I knew prepping was everything for adherence. I started with a masonry and cement binder which is clear and liquidy, followed by a pure white masonry primer. This helps keep the colors consistent in depth and vibrant.
The wall was vertical, hot, and rough, so I thought spray paint would be best to fill all the grooves. It normally would, but not on windy days! I switched to exterior paint after the first coat. It was too streaky and I lost too much to the air. I was also painting on wood chips and getting slivers constantly, so it was a bit rough. Let’s add a sunburn to that in 90 degree weather ☀️
After lots of taping and finalizing the tracks, the railroad sign was customized with “donated by the PTA 2025” with my artist info on it and bam! Nice and bright. It’s a perfect addition.
Have you painted cement before? Let me know your tips and tricks if you have! ⬇️ Arlington
Creating a successful outdoor mural on textured surfaces such as cement requires careful preparation and the right materials to ensure vibrant colors and durability. The process begins with thorough surface preparation using masonry and cement binders to promote paint adherence and a white masonry primer to maintain consistent color depth. These steps are crucial as they prevent paint from peeling or fading prematurely. When working on vertical, rough, and hot surfaces, spray paint might seem ideal for filling grooves, but environmental factors like wind can significantly impact its effectiveness, causing overspray and uneven coverage. Switching to high-quality exterior paints can improve finish reliability, especially on uneven substrates like cement mixed with wood chips. Outdoor murals are also subject to temperature challenges; for example, painting under direct sun in 90-degree weather requires careful planning to avoid heat-related discomfort and material issues. Additionally, creative customization—such as the inclusion of meaningful signage like "donated by the PTA 2025"—can enhance the mural’s community value and identity. Providing photo opportunities around the mural encourages interaction and creates memorable experiences, making the artwork a focal point for students and visitors alike. For artists and creators interested in painting cement or asphalt surfaces, it’s beneficial to know that binders and primers play an essential role in extending the life of the artwork. Use synthetic brushes or rollers suited for rough textures, and always tape off intricate areas for clean lines. Protective coatings applied after the mural's completion will also guard against fading and weather damage. Overall, mural creation on challenging surfaces is a rewarding endeavor that brightens public spaces and fosters community pride when approached with technical knowledge and artistic vision.
❤️perfect good job love it