How to Create a "Stone" Trough from an Old Belfast Sink

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Reuse your old belfast sink (sometimes known as a butler sink).

   Typically they made from heavy white glazed earthenware.
   
   If you don't have one they can sometimes be obtained from architectural salvage yards or country auctions.
2. 2

   Step 2: Thoroughly clean away all traces of grease or soap.

   ,,,,,, Do not make the mix too sloppy or you will not get it to stay on the vertical sides of the sink. , Next do the same to the interior sides.
   
   Lastly, carefully apply the mix to the rim, taking care not to dislodge the mix from the sides.
   
   Do not try to get the surfaces perfect
   - its supposed to resemble rough stone! ,, You only need a small amount to remain all over the surface. ,, Both will encourage mosses and lichens to colonize the rendered trough. ,,, You could take photos at regular intervals and compare the progress made
   - you'll be surprised. ,
3. 3

   Step 3: Obtain a can of black bitumastic sealant from good hardware store or builders merchants.

4. 4

   Step 4: Use an old fence brush you no longer value.

5. 5

   Step 5: Paint all around the outside

6. 6

   Step 6: including the rim

7. 7

   Step 7: to a depth of 4 inches (10.2 cm)

8. 8

   Step 8: around the top of the interior.

9. 9

   Step 9: Allow to dry completely.

10. 10

    Step 10: Thoroughly mix up a dry combination of: 3 parts sharp sand; 1 part Portland cement; 1 part just slightly damp garden peat.

11. 11

    Step 11: Make a mound of the mix with a well in the middle and gradually introduce water into the well

12. 12

    Step 12: mixing thoroughly.

13. 13

    Step 13: Starting from the base with a brick trowel

14. 14

    Step 14: liberally apply the mix (about 1" thick) to the external sides.

15. 15

    Step 15: Carefully use an old stiff nylon pot brush to texture the render

16. 16

    Step 16: but take care in your enthusiasm.

17. 17

    Step 17: Throw handfuls of well-fragmented

18. 18

    Step 18: dry peat at the rendered surfaces.

19. 19

    Step 19: Leave to dry out and cure.An old damp hessian sack draped over the sink will prevent the render from drying out too quickly during hot weather or if there is a risk of frost.

20. 20

    Step 20: When the new trough is completely hard and dry you can apply a wash of either cow manure or natural yogurt.

21. 21

    Step 21: Carefully move the trough to its new site.

22. 22

    Step 22: Fill the trough with good topsoil mixed with well rotted compost and plant your favorite plants.

23. 23

    Step 23: Don't be too impatient for the "stone" to colonize - it's a slow and natural process.

24. 24

    Step 24: Enjoy!

Detailed Guide

About the Author